A "Once in a Lifetime" Opportunity!

We spent the entire long weekend in Calgary for the Canadian Open - a nation-wide volleyball tournament for both boys and girls U15 and U16. So, basically, we were in the Olympic Oval at the University of Calgary with thousands of teenagers.

I believe there were 22 courts going at the same time... it was unbelievable! This photo was taken during an early morning game, so the scene is not nearly as busy as it was at other times of the day. But, I think you get the picture.... absolutely amazing!

This was definitely a "once in a lifetime" opportunity for Brett... to participate in a national sports competition like this, competing against teams from all over the country, at 14 years old.... how many people can say they did that?

Here is a shot of Brett jumping up for a hit. He is number 4 at the net. He played for the Lethbridge Volleyball Club and they were called the LVC Heat. He played with a great group of boys and learned so much this season. Brett's ability to anticipate plays and score important points for the team improved so much over the season. He has the height and strength to hit that ball, and it was beautiful to watch! They played some high calibre teams at nationals and did really well! They ended up winning silver for tier 3. I am very proud of Brett and the whole team!

I am also very proud of Darrin, who was the assistant coach for this team. I watched all season as he spent one on one time with these boys, getting to know their individual strengths and weaknesses, and learning how each of them responded best to learning. I watched him not only teach, but mentor these boys. The team would not have been the same without his influence, and I know that he made a huge difference.

Let me just sum it up by saying I was a pretty proud mom and wife this past weekend! :-)