Sorry it’s been awhile since my last report. Since then we have been through a whirlwind of events. Not only the opening ceremonies, but we also officially became Olympians.
The ceremonies were everything and more I dreamed they could be. We were dressed and ready around 5:15 PM. We then made our way over to the Fencing Hall, where we proceeded to meet the President of the United States. As we waited for him to make his entrance Kayla and I obviously had to entertain ourselves with the video camera. We only asked the most important questions like, “how did you get you hair to look that way?” and “what is is your favorite dance move?”
But, on a more serious note, it was quite amazing to be able to converse with the most talented athletes of our nation. After Mr. Bush spoke to us briefly and took a team picture with everyone, it was off to the main holding arena.
In a line of 204 countries we were ranked 139th to make our march to the Bird’s Nest. After weaving through a what seemed to be mile long line, we finally made our entrance to the 2008 Olympic Stadium. The most amazing part of it all was experiencing it with this team. As I looked to my left and right, it was knowing that we are behind each other throughout this entire process that made it so special.
Ok now on to bigger and better things…..game #1, USA v. Argentina. I wouldn’t have wanted to start against any other team. Over the last few years we have played this team more times than I can count, and every time I think we learn a little more about them and get that much closer to consistently beating them. Although the game did not go exactly as we had planned, it showed our true strength as a team. Even through adversity, we adjusted and rose to the challenge that was placed in front of us. Playing a man down and questionable calls still couldn’t detract us from our main goal, putting the ball in the net. I am now just looking forward to playing a game with 11 players for 70 minutes, that’s how this sport is supposed to be played right?
Until next time…
Lauren
1 response so far ↓
Bob Byrne // August 13, 2008 at 1:57 am
Way to go Lauren! Congratulations on the games so far. You and the whole team are doing a wonderful job representing your country and making everyone “back home” proud, (including your young cousins). Good luck against Germany!! We are all rooting for you!!