Preparation Tour for Alberta Juveniles

Road to Redemption? and reflections

2008-09-07T12:11:00.000-07:00

Road to Redemtion was a success in my opionon, we have come from losing to teams by 40 to losing to teams by 1 or 2, an example is 2 years ago we lost to paruguay 42-6 and yesterday we lost to them 25-24. So we have caught up and have 1 year to reach our goal to go to the world championships. can it be done? I think so but it always up to the girls. As a coach I am very proud of this group for all the dedication they have put and how they have come so close as a team. So thank you girls. Mike Nahmiash (Blitzcreek Bobby)

Although this isn't a reflection for me as far as Brasil goes because i wasnt with the girls at the time to experience it, but i realy hope that next year can be the road to redemtion for me. I really feel this team has so much potential that we havent even come close to seeing yet. And next year is hopefully going to be a breeze when we beat the team to continue on to Worlds. I have to many amazing memories of this summer to ever forget i love all the girls so much and hope we will continue on next year and for years to come! This summer was by far the best experience i've had in my life time. I hope all the upcoming training sessions and trips i have with all the girls and Mike will leave more endless memories! Best of luck for everyone in the future even if you dont continue to play handball. Lots of love.
Nicole

well, the road to redemption didn't go exactly as we had planned, but i think we are all pleased with our own successes. Despite not coming home with a medal, we all had an amazing, life-changing experience (that many of us had a second shot at, and hopefully a third next year when we can have a third chance.) Completely outside of the handball aspect, I know that my life has been changed so much after this summer, i've not only grown as a handball player, but i think we've all grown as people. I have made so many new friends, and even though some of us live across the country from each other, i know we will meet up again. We all learned what we need to do in order to qualify for worlds next year, and now its up to us to do it!
Chrissy

2 years ago I didnt even know what handball was, and now it has become a very important part of my life. The amount I have grown as a person and a handball player has tremendously increased in that short amout of time. To be able to say that I have been in Europe and Brazil all in one summer, I think its pretty amazing and not to many people would be able to say the same in a life time. Its even more amazing to be able to share the memories with such a great group of people. This has been by far the best team I have ever been on and I hope it stays together in the future so we can share more memories just like this summer. We didnt do as well as we planned this year in the tournement but its an eye opener for what we need to do to improve for next year. Everything comes down to how bad we want it and how hard we are going to work for it. I hope we all continue to work for our dream together in order to accomplish it so we can bring home a medal and truely redem ourselves.
Jenny Taylor.

Its amazing to see how far a team can come in only 2 years. Not to mention all the places we have been to see and experience as such a close team. This summer has been another incredible experience that I will never forget. Even though we didn't get a medal or a win out of it i feel we have won ourselves the knowledge of what it takes to beat the teams in South America and the little things in practices we need to work on to get that much better. To play on the national team and represent your country is a great feeling. Its also a reminder of the hard work it takes to get you there and what will take to get us to the next Pan Ams and leave with a medal. Everyone has improved so much over the last 2 months in Europe and Brazil its amazing to see. Our team has so much potential, in this next year the more we work and the stronger we get i am sure we will be that much closer to our goals and dreams.
Shannon Proskow.

another close game until Ref's decided to control the game

2008-09-06T18:59:00.000-07:00

This morning we woke up to good ol jenn knocking at our doors. after breakfast we watched the game from the previous day against Chile. After reveiwing our mistakes and our triumps from the earlier game, for the last time we headed off to the gym. We had a great warm-up and were well prepared for the game.. so we thought. When we started the game our minds were somewhere else, we faced our worst enemy, the turn over!! We were down by 8 goals, so we changed our line-up, which altered the game and gave a chance to get back in it, making us down by 6 at the half. During the half time we looked over to our opponents to find them already celebrating and mocking us. This brought more passion, heart and the fire to push for the win! we came into the second half with great attitude, but once agian we fell short and paraguay gained a 9 point lead. With 7 minutes left we changed our defence to a 4-2 and a 3-3 which brought us back into the game to tie. We were fighting hard to keep the tie, but a phantom 2 minute and a phantom out of bounds call by the refs, screwed us over. With diasappiontment and frustration we lost the game by 1. After the game it all really hit us, that the moments we had just spent together fighting for the win, were our last as a team. Tears were shed, but in the end we decided to take it as positive experience and knowing that we've come from losing by 30 to losing by only 1. We've come a long way and we plan to keep working hard and strengthing to go even farther in the future. Next years pan-ams here we come! ( Kathy, start working rexalls =]) Well thats a day for us, now we're off to a fun day tomrrow and moments to reflect. Miss everyone at home, but see ya soon!

Love from
Jaytay- whos not mikes favorite anymore ( but has a new argentina bag haha)
and Stu-lyn- Who is liking the new nickname

(Jenny and Jaelyn)

ps. we fought hard for you jaymie, we'll hopefully be seeing you soon

Tough loss to Chile but such a close game, one for the ages

2008-09-05T17:29:00.000-07:00

Like every other day we had a "hardy" breakfast a video session and then headed off to the gym for our game agianst Chile. We had a great warm-up which brought us into the game upumped and ready to go. We gained a good lead of 6-1, but fell to a tie of 12-12 at half time. After the half for the first fitfteen minutes the game went back and forth, Chile pulled away and with six minutes left in the game, we were down by 6. We pushed real hard and with some passion, we scored 4 goals with some huge saves from jaelyn, to get us back in the game, we fought hard, but not in time. We lost the game 24-22. Now we are all going to watch the Chile game on mikes lab top! We've watched some good games, had some good jokes, Talked to the Crazy Aunt (KIM!) and all together its been a good day. Talk to you all again tomorrow!

Missing the family and friends,
By Jaelyn with laughter from others
(who was being distracted by shannon's "rapping" while writing this)

ps. we miss you jaymie, you're always on our mind

Best game so far but still came with a loss vs Argeninta who ranked 11th in the World at last World Champioships

2008-09-04T16:58:00.000-07:00

Day 3:

Once again we started the day with a bountiful breakfast, and reviewing game tapes. Then we headed off to the gym for our third game woo woo. Our game plan was to start off with a 3-3 defence which we did quite well on. Bringing tactics that we had discussed earlier in the morning to the game. On offense we moved the ball pretty well, but didnt have a high shooting efficiency creating fast break oppurtunities for them. We got down earlier on in the game which made us more rushed on offense leading to more turnovers and more counter attacks. At half time we were down by twelve, second half game plan was prety much the same which we were successful in. Very proud with the way we played today, just not at the level of Argentina. This afternoon we took a break and hit the mall for some shopping. Where Mike generously bought some of the girls ice cream. In a big shocking turn of events Miranda did not buy any shoes! she must be ill. Jenn was in a dress and high heels! and Mike couldnt handle it. Jodi did not buy Mike a t.v. therefore not buying him anything he wanted. Chrissy still owes Mike 3985 push-ups because of people mistakes towards Jenny Taylor.
technicaly wrote by BlitzKrieg Bobby a.k.a Mike
Over and Out!
Jugernaut Jenn, Mashing Monty, Pounding Proskow, Ehrman the enforcer

Woot Woot we miss you Jabawaki Jaymie

Loss vs uruguay but making up alot of ground

2008-09-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

Day 2:
We started the day with a nice light jog/stretch with Janie(our Physio). Then we headed to the usual hearty breakfast. After Breaky we headed to the gym for gametime. During the game our defence which was supposed to be our strong point, turned out to be one of our weakest points. We had trouble with their movement, a result of bad communication. Also it seemed we didnt put enough effort into completely stopping the ball. We just allowed them to do as they pleased with the ball. Offensively we did well scoring 24 goals, But couldnt make the stops needed to push us ahead, Which led to us playing a catch-up game. On offense the gameplan was to send in second pivots and look for the shots from 9 meters(Great gameplan by coach Mike Nahminashi). We also struggled accomplishing this goal. We ended off the day watching Brasil vs. Chile, where Chile suffered the same fate as us. Tomorrow a Game vs. Argentina, which wil be the same level as Brasil, but we still fight until the end.

Adios Amigos,
Pinata Proskow, Jalapeno Jen, Enchilada Ehrman

P.S. Missing Everyone back home, especially you Jaymie

Big Battle in Blumenau Brazil

2008-09-02T17:38:00.000-07:00

Day 1

So today we woke up and went to breakfast, and also got to experience the beautifaul view surrounding us in Brazil. We headed off to the gym for our first activity of the day, being a light practice, getting some of our jitters out before the big game (literally big). After lunch we came back to our hotel for some basking time. Like usual we headed off on our "big nice bus" -m.diddy (double decker bus) Then it was game time! Starting off we realized that they were at a higher level then us not to mention finshing eighth in the last world championships, but we still had to play to the best of our ability. The brazilians were all averaging around six feet and very muscular, so stopping them on defense was a challenge. The brazil team were quick and had good movement with and without the ball, you can tell they have alot of knowlege and experience with the sport proven by their constant big blocks on defense. They had some amazing side arm, stem and jump shots that they could score from anywhere, not to mention their ally-oop that they threw in at the end. We learned alot from the game and to see how their dedication to the sport and the amount of hours they put into it has payed off. We have improved since the last time, but it still would take alot of work to achieve that level of handball. After there was opening ceremonies with all the teams which was splendid. woo woo!

signing off,
slammin' shannon and jammin' jodi

Jaymie, we were thinking of you and we miss you tons. Still missing everyone back home to, love you all.
Players of the game were
Jenny Taylor and Miranda Monty, Miranda ended up with 5 goals and Jenny with alot of the assist on the goals

travel

2008-09-01T18:55:00.000-07:00

Sup, from brasil!! after a long couple days of traveling, we are all relieved to finally be in brazil. Altogether, it was well over 24 hours of straight travelling (3 hours to calgary, 4 to houston, 10 to sao paulo, 10 to blumenau, and this doesn't include waiting at airports.) No worries, we have all arrived safe, but shockingly greasy (and we are all pretty stoked to brush our teeth). After dropping off our bags at the hotel, we went to eat supper at a very familiar (for some) cafeteria. The food hasn't even changed. When we finished, we took a mini tour of the gyms we will be playing in. It was a trip down memory lane. we are ready to put the past behind us as we start on our road to redemption with our first game vs brazil tomorrow afternoon.
miss you jaymie,
Chrissy(sweatstain) and Miranda (M-squared)

Road to Redemption is Set to Begin

2008-08-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

2 years ago ATHF took a group of girls who just began handball to Brazil to the U-16 pan-am championships, it very very successful in terms of promoting the game, but for wins and losses the women did not do well. After that there was Jenny Taylor,Jen Randolph,Jaelyn Piasetzki,Shannon Proskow,Chrissy Wetzstien,Miranda Monty who said we will train as hard as we can to be back and be able to compete at this level. Now added by Alberta players Jodi Ehrman,Nicole Leger,Alyssa Rayner,Holly Deslaurier ,Kaylee Akre and Rebbecca Hampton. then add 4 very good player from Quebec to make the national team.2 Years later the girls are heading back to the exact place it began for them, Blumeneau Brazil and the girls say this is our road to redemption and a medal is what we are looking for.
Coach Mike Nahmiash says, we are a contender now, we are not ready for Brazil yet but we are ready for any other country, we play Brazil first and they should be aware or what is coming from Canada, we will fight to the end and not give up anything easy to them.

Here are links to the competition
http://www.ligahand.com.br/brasilhandebol/tabela_jogos/viewnews.php

Here is the hotel they are staying at
http://www.hotelkloppel.com.br/

Another Win and a finish of a 9-1 Record (team is Ready for Pan-ams)

2008-08-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

today started off like any other day with breakfast and a practice, but in everyones minds it was the sad conclusin of our trip. Our Practice was an our of working on fast break and offence. We came back for a lunch of chicken and delicious eclaires for dessert. This was followed by a team meeting to discuss handball for those going to Brazil and plans for next year and the years to follow. We then went to the local swiming pool for some team bonding time. Interestingly enough we were all enlightend to the European ways of no swiming shorts, thus everyone.. and everyone in tight speedos...yikes!! we came back to relax a bit and have a quick snack before our last game of the tour. It was a sucessfull conclusion of all our hard work. We had a bit of a slow start but picked and pulled through proving to ourselves that are in fact ready for Pan ams. Bring it on sounth america,
As well we found out today that we will be faceing, Brazil,Argentina,Uruguay,Chilie,Paruguay

A win but Defensively not to strong 34-25

2008-08-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

This morning we got to sleep in until 9:15. We had only one practice today and it was from 11- 1pm to work on a man to man defence for a situation if we are down by one goal with 30 seconds left, as well as some systems of ball movement while on a powerplay. Then it was out the basketball courts to settle a bet and some trash talk between Mike and Shannon. The outcome was predictable as Shannon beat mike 1 on 1. As per usual, Mike questioned the outcome of the game. It was decided in the begining that they would play to six, needing to win by two. The final score was 7-3 for Shanon, creating the controversy that she didn't not score exactly 6, but went over. We then went for a late lunch at Quick Burger, and went back to our rooms to relax a bit before the game. We had an earlier game at 6:15 instead of 8. The other team was short players so each half some of our player played with them. We started the game trying out the man to man defence we had worked on at practice running it after scoring a goal. Offensively we were able to move the ball with composure and had few turnovers, however we had some difficulty stopping their fast break leaving Holly out to dry on more than one occassion. We then went to a straight 3-2-1 defence but still had some trouble controlling their backs and stepping out to hit them at nine. It was a close game at half, but we picked it up a bit and finished the game winning 34-25. I (miranda) had a couple of blocks, including one hard shot released a foot away with my face. Just to clarify.. the ball was in fact okay!, and i only had a few chunks of stickum in my eye. Ironically then on our next offence the girl who had hit me in the face, also got the ball in the face, but she was okay and laughing afterwards. Tonight we have some free time to go to bed early or get a head start on the packing for our return trip. See everyone shortly! We miss you Jaymie and Jaelyn!!

Miranda

Another Big Win Against Catalone All Stars

2008-08-16T15:54:00.000-07:00

Today we woke up had a delicious breakfast aka bread and nutella. Jodi being the master mind of the corp. bought ketchup. Then we headed to our practice working on our offensive systems. we had a great lunch once again with mystery meat and apple pie. went back for some baskin time then off to the second practice of the day which worked on defence. we then basked some more and headed off to our game. It was tight at the beginning of the game but we pulled away at the end with our fast breaks. We all worked well together and especially miranda had a great game scoring five goals. we ended up winning by 8. on our trip back from the gym we encountered a mischevious little hedgehog. it was really cute. well its off to bed, .
ps-we got our first group hug as a team today!
miss you jaymie! pps: great pep talk, i played well today!
and we miss you jawlyn
Chrissy, Jodi, Jen, and DBWatt/shan

2008-08-15T14:23:00.000-07:00

No Blog for the 15th, it was a day off so here is a bit of a video of beginning of a game vs montpellier as well as a Picture

Another big win against Montpellier, as well Red card Monty

2008-08-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

Today was a one practice, day. We woke up later then normal and headed off to the gym for a tecnique practice. The practice was light, to make sure we'd be fresh for that evenings game. After the practice we took a good nap/chill time before our late afternoon lunch. When we were well rested, we headed off on our two hour journey to Montpellier. The ride there was good, mikes car was said to be "emo, or depressed" with little or on talking. This made a very good joke to be told, when we stopped at a park for a light snack. We arrived pretty early at the gym, so this gave a good amount of time to perpare ourselves for the big game. after a good meeting and some pumping tunes, we were ready! However we started off with many mistakes on offecnce, but strong defence kept us in the game! We had some trouble with many two, two minute penalties, including our defencive specialist Miranda. We were up 14-12 at the half, second half we held our composer and took a strong start, staying in the lead all game. About fifteen minutes into the second half, Monty got another two, which was her third two minute and an automatic red card. We pushed passed it and came out in the end with a 24-20 win! which leaves us with a 6-1 record. because Montpellier enjoyed playing against us so much, we continues the half another 10 minutes to get everyone in. after our exciting win, we were invited to dinner at the Montpellier club. We all enjoyed tossing around jokes and having a good time with our competators and new friends. The long car ride home, was a good time to reflect on our sucessful day. We say goodbye to Jaelyn and Evelyn, who depart tomorrow from Perpignan back to edmonton.

By Rachel and Jaelyn
We miss you jaymie,
you're always with us

ps. Rachel "supervised" this blog writing, while annoying mike like usual!
Stats
Jenny Taylor- 1 Goal
Jen Randolph- 4 Goals
Miranda Monty 1 Goal
Shannon Proskow 5 Goals
Jodi Ehrman 1 Goal

Big Win Vs Home Town Perpignan 24-19

2008-08-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

This morning began with our normal breakfast of cereal and croissants. We then all walked to the gym for a practice, which was technique and movement oriented. After practice we had an hour before lunch. Once lunch rolled around, we discovered that due to a terrible misunderstanding, we were NOT getting lunch. Mike, sensing a riot, told us all to go to the nearest quick burger or Mcdonalds. We had free time from 2-5, and we all spent it sleeping, shopping or talking. After that we had our snack and headed to the gym for the rematch against Perpignan. After an intense half, the score was 9-8 for us.Our team played excellent defense, ending the game with a 24-19 win. After the game we were invited for dinner with the Perpignan team at their club. It was a enjoyable time, and we all had a good day.
Stata of the game
Jenny Taylor 1 Goals,
Nicole Leger 2 Goals
Jen Randolph 2 Goals
Miranda 3 Goals
Shannon P 3 Goals
Rebecca H- 0 Goals
Meghan B-0 Goals
Alyssa Rayner 6 Goals
Chrissy W- 0 Goals
Kaylee - 0 Goals
Jaymie we miss you so much! We can't wait to see you again.
Once again, Happy Late Birthday!
-Kaylee and Holly.

A big win for the newer players in the Program

2008-08-12T13:07:00.000-07:00

We started off the day waking up at 7:45 to go to breakfast. On the way there I (Meghan) got my toe stuck underneath the door of the dorms. The crisis was avoided after about 10 minutes thanks to a handy crowbar supplied by the dorm staff. Ironically by the same staff member who tried to pull the door open when my toe was stuck under the door. I came away with only a minor scratch. After breakfast we walked in the incredibly hot weather to practice for a couple hours. After practicing hard we came back to the dorms for a good lunch, with a wonderful dessert of a chocolate filled donut. After lunch we rested for a bit, then headed off to another hard, hot practice. We then headed back to the dorms to rest some more and have a snack before our game. We finished off a kilo of nutella in about 15 minutes. It was a big game for the newer players on the team, it was a good chance for them to prove themselves. It was a good chance for the newer players to get some experience playing a faster game then high school. They got lots of playing time to really get the feel of a higher level of handball. We came out with a win with a final score of 23-17. After the game we went back to the dorms for a good supper of prawns, chicken, scallops and rice.

Stats for the game
Jenny Taylor-3 Goals
Jen Randolph 4 Goals
Miranda Monty 4 Goals
Shannon Proskow 4 Goals
Kaylee Akre 1 Goal
Meghan Belrose 1 Goal
Rachel Wiems 3 Goals
Rebecca Hampton 1 Goal

Happy Birthday Jamie! We miss you! The win was for you!

Meghan and Alyssa

A well Deserved Day off

2008-08-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

Today we started the day with an optional breakfast which consisted of an amazing crunch cereal. The perfect way to start off a great day. After we all ventured back to the dorms for a nice long nap. Waking up for lunch we learned that once again the food truck was late and had to wait another half an hour to get our food. Finally after eating our fish...we packed up and headed off to the beach. Let's just say it ws a "European" beach and we all know what that means. After taking a nice cold hop in the Mediteranean we enjoyed basking in the sun. Taking many pictures we encountered a friendly old man in the midst of it. All in all it was a great day at the beach. Once arriving back at the dorms we had another time for napping or just relaxing and watching a bit of the Olympics. Next we enjoyed a nice hot supper of pork and pasta to end the day perfectly. Then we were off to bed for another night of rest before a big day of handball tomorrow.

PS: We miss you Jaymie, wish you were here.

Love:
Rebecca and Rachel who both miss their families like crazy.

Tough Loss

2008-08-10T14:10:00.000-07:00

We atempted to watch the handball olympics while eating breakfast. (Brazil vs. France) Mike was rooting for Brazil and a tight game because they're our "Pan American friends" haha i bet we'll never hear him say that again! Afterwards we had some free time to hangout... (sleep, laundry) followed by a pre game practice to work on our defense. We obviously didn't bring these skills to the game for we had a tough loss due to turn overs, miss shots, and outside shooters that were scoring when we weren't stepping out to hit. It was a tough loss for most of us. But something we need to look past. After the game we enjoyed a deliscious lasagna with bread and salad! We look forward to a much needed day off to relax and clear our mind of handball! While having fun on the beach!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAY! We miss you Jaymie!! Lots of love to all the families!!!
xoxo
Nicole and Miranda
Stats Goals
Jen 5
Shannon 7
Miranda 2
Chrissy dnp
Jenny 0
Nicole 0
Jody dnp
Alyssa dnp
Meghan 0
Rachel 1
Kaylee 0
Rebecca 0
Siobhan 0

Another Win

2008-08-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

Today we woke up bright and early and headed to a great breakfast of breads and jam and fruits. Then off to practice, where we did some thinking and strategic drills. Working on creating 3 on 2's, 4 on 3's and sending in second pivots from all positions and all that good stuff. Back for lunching which consisted of couscous (my favorite... not!) and some mystery meat. After lunch we had a glorious snoozer, then headed to our second practice of the day (Rachael decided sleeping in was more important then the practice.) This practice consisted of learning our 4-2 defense. Then headed back for an hour of basking before our third game. We embarked on our mission to the third game. Starting off the game with a bang, with tons of fast breaks putting us up by like 8 or 9 goals. It was alot of our girls first game overseas and they all did really well and did us proud. We tried all of our different defenses like our 3-2-1 and 4-2 and the plain old 6-0. Leaving the gym with another win under our belts felt pretty great. Fantastic supper was awaiting us when we arrived back to the cafeteria. After along day heading to bed sounds magnificent right now. nighty night miss you all, especially a special pivot back home named Jaymie.

Love from,
Jenn and Jodi

Canada vs Perpignan
Shooting stats
Jen Randolph 5 out of 5
Shannon Proskow 2 out of 3
Jodi Ehrman 4 out of 8
Miranda Monty 4 out of 7
Nicole Leger 1 out of 2
Alyssa Rayner 1 out of 4
Rachel Wiems 1 out of 7
Kaylee Akre 2 out of 2
Meghan Belrose 0 outof 2
Rebecca Hampton 0 out of 2

Aug 7th Canada get a huge Win

2008-08-08T05:55:00.000-07:00

Today we woke up at the usual 7:00 am. A little sleepier than usual we made our way to breakfast. We then went to our first practice of the day which worked on our systems and attacking on offence. Back to the rooms to take a well needed siesta. After a good hour nap we headed to lunch which was a form of grilled cheese sandwiches and noodles. Shortly after heading to our second practice, which focused on the 3-2-1 defense. Back to the rooms again for another hour of basking. Today wasn’t nearly as hot since it was a little overcast and breezy. Back to the gym after a bagged team supper at our rooms. We then began our second game of the trip which ended in a win/tie because the buzzer never went and they scored a goal. The team had a few national team players from France and were second place champions in the French league U-18. It was a really close cat and mouse style game which was really a lot of fun. We found success with a 3-2-1 defense and playing with the systems on offense also worked well. Pizza for our victory and off to bed with a day off tomorrow heading to Perpignan. Nighty night

Shank and Jen.
Stats of the game
Jen Randlph 7 goals out of 11 shots
Miranda Monty 2 Goals out of 4 Shots
Shannon Proskow 6 Goals out of 8 shots
Chrissy 1 Goal out of 3 shots
Jodi 1 Goal out of 6 shots
Alyssa 1 goal out of 3 shots

P.S. we miss all of you back home

Canada 32 Vs Coteaux 27 (Canada gets the Win)

2008-08-08T05:50:00.000-07:00

Hello
no time to have the girls write a blog

but here are the stats
Canada 32-Coteaux-27

Jen Randolph 4 Goals
Miranda Monty 1 Goal
Shannon Proskow 6 Goals
Jodi Ehrman 6 Goals
Chrissy 2 Goals

Nicole 1 Goal

Aug 5

2008-08-06T05:17:00.001-07:00

After a much needed rest we woke up and went to breakfast then went to our second practice of the trip which started slow but after we woke up and picked it up, with lots of fun drills and individual shooting. Then we headed to lunch meeting up with our new teammates from Quebec. After they got settled in we got our new team Canada gear. Then we went to our second practice learning one of our defensive systems. We were lucky enough to watch a team from Toulouse practice a pre season conditioning. Now it is thunderstorming and we must hit the sack. This is Shank, Chrissy, Jenny and Jodi signing off.
p.s. not even in Rome but still sweating!!!.

Aug 4th Travel Day

2008-08-06T05:16:00.000-07:00

Hello again,Today we woke up bright and early except for the bright part! As we drove through the fog towards the airport we looked back on beautiful Rome and 4:15 am. We flew to Paris and had to book it to the next terminal because the flight was a bit delayed. Jenny was harassed by a little girl, almost getting licked. Arriving in Toulouse we quickly got settled in to our huge rooms. We had a light practice just to get some ball touch. Both lunch and supper consisted of both Ketchup and Mayonaisse. Mmm…delicious. We then had a short meeting to go over our plays and defense. An hour later we went to bed and crashed.

The Last Day..... Of... When in rome

2008-08-03T14:45:00.000-07:00

So being the last day in Rome we decided to start it off with the amzing race Rome mini verison! There were three teams of five each, Jodie being the white team, Shannons the black, and Jens the light blue. We had five places to visit and different routes to arrive there depending on how fast you were to the first meeting point. It was quite the friendly battle ending in a three way dispute on who the winners were. (So a tie was called) After that we decided as a cool off we needed to have a little shopping time conisisting of the nike store, souveniour stores, the Roma shop and any other random stops. Then off to mcdonalds we went were red light randolph had a little incident with some children pointing laser pointers in mcdonalds at his chest. So you can imagine the rest of the day we would not let down on the jokes for good old red light randolph. After that it wa time for a well deserved rest slash pack back at the hotel. (wonder how much actually got done!) After that we took the metro and split up into groups who wanted to go to hard rock cafe and a pizzeria/market. It was the perfect last day with good times and good memories to last! :)

see ya, Shiobhan and Kaylee

we miss and love you Jaymie

2008-08-02T15:42:00.001-07:00

Day six. Rachel is the new Janet.

This morning we got to sleep in due to the the Medic of Mayhems bout of overworrying about dehydration and exhaustion. His daughter is not surprised. We got to breakfast and it was a zoo. After breakfast we took the tram to one of the many markets. it was pretty cool, and almost everyone picked up something cool. It was a really nice day out, and alyssa sweated like a pig. she's not paying any attention while i write this. Mario and Luigi picked up hideous "bling-bling" belt, that have REAL GOLD on thier spinner belts. they paid seven euros. After an uncomfotable hour at the market for mike, we headed to the Catacombs. The bus was hot and sticky, and we got there in "record" time. We got there just after thier seista began, and had to waste a few hours with lying in the shade,eating pizza. Mike rapped in hebrew for us, which was pretty awesome. he probably made fun of rayner. Then Rachel left her bag with mike, who thought it nesacary to hide her bag in the bushes. rachel then felt it was nesacary to pour an entire waterbottle on mike, causing a huge water fight. Raul the werewolf and the Medic of Mayhem vs. the Team of Terror. the team of terror soaked mike and b-ri. After the water fight, we all payed fo tickets to get into the catacombs. We took the english tour and leaned the history of the site. All of the girls really enjoyd the catacombs but it was a bit erie. We learned the differences of the symbols and writings found outside where the bodies were found... although it was disappinting that ther weren't bodies or bones found there because they were all moved to churches around the areas. After spending arnd three hours at the site, we left to get back to the hotel for a siesta. We took the metro and rachel led the way home due to a bet from mike. Fortunatley we got home and everyone was so tired that w all slept for two hours. afetr the siesta we went out to eat supper at a chinese food restaurant. Then after long confusion about what transportation we would take, we hopped on a bus that led to a large market. The second bus we transferred on was so full you had everyone all aound. It smelle like BO. siiiiiiiiiiiiiiick. it was a nice night and everyone enjoyed shopping an looking around. rachel again spent oodles of money. we all cut her off. we took cabs home and b-rys cab owned everyones. Before we headed to bed we had a team meeting and listened to mirandas insanly good rap.

-Rayner and Holly.

JAYMIE WE MISS YOU SO MUCH. LOVE YOU!

morning run, vatican city, wedding cake, shopping

2008-08-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

the day started off with a nice early morning run along the streets of beautiful rome. We had a good breakfast and it was off to the Vatican. The Vatican, a country of it's own, was the main part of our day, we started off walking through the Basilica using a audioguide. The artwork, statues, and tombs were breath taking. An interesting story was behind each and every piece. There was so much to see and learn about, we know we only scratched the surface of the deep and meaningful history. Although hot, the view from the courtyard was almost as amazing as what was inside the actual buildings. The pillars seemed to symbolize the strength of the church and its culture. After the Basilica, we headed over to Cistine chapel which was also the place of the Vatican museums, where we spent a mere hour, not enough time to appreciate it to the fullest. The paintings, tapestries, statues in the museum were amazing, but nothing compared to the magnificence of the Cistine chapel. The artwork on the ceiling by Michealangelo was indescribable, and since no pictures were allowed, you'll have to witness it yourself. We took a ) small break in our day to celebrate my birthday (Meghan) and have a seista. Which came to an abrupt ending with a balloon bombing from the first floor balcony. A strategic move of Mike in the ongoing battle of pranks. The main target (Meghan) was missed (barely) but a few other innocent bystanders were caught in the cross fire. Amoung those, a few local Italians who were not impressed by their soaked motorcycles. We dispersed but met up again quickly to refuel on ice cream before heading out again to view the streets of Rome while taking in some shopping. We wandered at our own pace and discretion through the streets of Rome, stopping at a local restaurant to eat some authentic pasta. There was some confusion when we came up 40 euros short, but later was cleared up. There was some hidden taxes. As we wandered through the streets we came upon the lit up wedding cake, which Alyssa mistook for the Empire State Building and White House. Just joking. As we were continuing on our way, Brian and Mike decided to attempt to throw me in the fountain. I held off for a considerable amount of time, but decided to let them get the upper hand so their egos wouldn't be bruised too badly. Meanwhile, a random bystander egged them on. After this incident, we preceded on our walk and viewed the Colliseum. This time by night. While walking around the Collisuem we heard an outrageous cry from across the street. We crossed the square to check it out and had to rock jump and pull some Rambo moves, only to find out that it was a play and we had gone to the wrong side. We tried to get a view of what was going on but was unsuccessful. We made our way back to the hotel and on the way, we find out that Mike had gotten into a fight with some lions and tigers at the Colliseum and had acquired a dark streak of dirt tears from his amazing victory. Somewhere in the middle of this chaos, he also claimed to have defeated the whole country of Sparta by himself. He then took Sparta as his last name. We hope this will become official. Along with the first name Raul.

Monty and protege(Meghan)

We miss you Jaymie.

Collisium,Romun Forum,Trevi Fountain,Spanish steps

2008-07-31T15:21:00.000-07:00

Well so far to my left jawlyn is balling her eyes out (nothin new) and Luigi walked in. Today started off with a light jog along the "sizzling" streets of Rome. The second we walked out of the hotel the sweating commenced. After stretching and breakfast (which was the right price) ad a long needed "cold" shower we headed to the metro for our day in Rome. Not so long after Raoul (aka Naminashi) turned into a mean, lean, cat fighting machine. Before all that a angered Italian broke lose not only giving Rebecca a sligt nudge but a swift slap to Mikes arm. Scurrying off the metro we entered the schortching heat and into a magnificent view of the colliseum. It was a mind blowing experience that we are still trying to understand. After viewing the animal cages and gladiator scene we went to the Roman Forum. It was amazing to see the way the romans lived and the way they created such structures. We can only imagine the way things used to be. The history was incredible where such events took place like the death of Julius Ceaser. After the well worth sight seeing we headed back to the hotel to take a siesta. Later resumed our journey and stopped for a bite to eat at a little, delicious pizzeria. Then off to the metro once again to emerge downtown. While there we took in more sights like the Spainish Steps and Trevi Fountain we caught a glimps of street vendors bookin it down the streets with there stolen merchandise. Once again mike decided to experiment with the growing of facial hair. The treat for us this time was a classy italian mustache. Brian and Mike seemed to have quite a resemblance to some classic favored nintento characters. Mario and Luigi! The night ended off with a speedy taxi drive home through the night of Rome. Feet a little sore but still ready to see more!! Off to sleep!! Nighty night!

Jen and Shank(still sweatin!!)

PS. missing everyone! and especially you jaymie!

WHEN in Paris/Airport/Plane/Rome…………

2008-07-30T15:42:00.000-07:00

Wow!! What a day!! It started off with a great run throughout Paris!! Next we hip hopped into the big city for some sight seeing. It was terrific. We went on a tour bus where you hop on and off wherever you please. We started at The Arc D’Triomphe. And man was it amazing… 264 steps later we reached a fantastic view! All of Paris, it was awesome. Running short on time we jumped back on the bus and continued our trip to all the other great sights. We were short on time so we had to stay on the bus but the view was spectacular! We went and saw the Eiffel Tower yet again… The Louvre and last but not least Notre Dame, we got off at Notre Dame to look inside and it was exquisite. We wanted to climb to the top of Notre Dame but we were out of time (and the time was HUGE!) Nicole and Jen (Nicole now Jens protégé) being clever took water and splashed T-Bone (Mike) to make it looked like he peed! We also gave him Swipple ( nipple sweat) Swass ( sweaty ass) and back sweat! But consequently mike got us back with the water balloons he found in Nicole and Jens shower. Jens hat also got thrown over the railing and the cleaning lady took it… What an adventure to get it back! Being on the handball team we always get lost and ended up on the wrong side of the airport once again! For about the 5 time on the trip. P.S. Kim we did pad attack 8 and put tampons galore in his suit case! After finally getting all our luggage checked in, Mike was once again randomly checked…never fails. When we got on the plane pretty much all of us fell asleep and were woke up to an “interesting” supper. Some sort of vegetables with an egg that looked like a ball of jello, not to appetizing. The plane ride was quite scary at times with all the turbulence and announcement that sounded like we are dropping the tires. Finally we landed in Rome and took off to the hotel. The hotel is amazing with GREAT air conditioning in the 30 degree weather at eleven at night. Finally off to get Gelatos, the first off many. Then off to bed to get ready for another big day.

Nicole and Rebecca (We miss all you family members! Much LOVE)

PS: WE MISS YOU JAYMIE.

Vimy Ridge,Handball Store,Revenge

2008-07-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

day 2, still no cold pizza. but Miranda is doing well in teaching her protege the tricks of the trade.

We woke up at 5:30. it was tought, but definitely worth it as we headed off to vimy ridge. When we arrived, the first thing we noticed was multiple signs warning us of undetonated bombs, and endless craters where the explosions once shattered the land. lets just say it was an eye-opener. We got to see a monument that recognized over 11 000 soldiers that gave there lives. it is truly undescribable. you can look at the picture, but let us tell you the picture does not give justice to the true magnitude of monument. The size of the whole thing is absolutely breathtaking, and there were thousands of names on the walls representing the fallen soldiers. While we were strolling through the trenches and amongst no-mans land, we looked towards the horizon to see our own Mike Nahmiash, proud canadian coach, raising the Canadian flag. As we stood in the trenches pondering the staggering loss of life the sight of our own coach having been given the prestigious honor of raising the canadian flag at vimy ridge brought a tear to our eye. It was an incredible honor bestowed upon mike to raise the canadian flag at vimy ridge. The cemetaries while very beautifaul were a constant reminder of the tradegies and attrocities that occured here. We were provided an amazing (but french unfortunately) tour of the tunels that were built and occupied by the soldiers during the first world war, texts books can not do justice to the eerie feeling of touching the damp limestone walls of the tunnels. After a very moving experience we then traveled for two hours along a paris hihway until we reached our destination the HANDBALL STORE!!! it was a breathe of fresh air. Everybody found a treasure and then some, the visa bills are in the mail. The winner of who can spend the most award was Jodi. So congrats to her and you can look forward to seeing these items proudly displayed at a handball event in the near future. After the store it was off to a small cafe for baggettes and a refreshing cola. Once back at the hotel we innocently arrived to a team meeting only to discover it was yet another sucker punch from above from mike and his new accomplice the medic of mayhem. Rest assured restribution will be swift and just. to quote sources close to the attack "it's on!" but for now we must sign off, plot our revenge, and get ready for a fun filled day in exciting Paris.

Jaymzie the entire team both love and miss you.

Much love,

Chrissy and Odie.

Long flight, Lost in Airport,Iffle tower,Lost in a huge traffic circle and nice taxi driver

2008-07-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

Today was our first day on a long awaited trip! We all met at earls for the drive down to calgary to start off our great expedition. Calgary trip seemed long until we relized we still had a ten hour trip ahead of us. Miranda forgot to bring cold pizza, so that was a major let down, but we stopped at red deer for some timmys. we got to calgary and met up with Rebecca and the Calgary girls, Shiobhan and Kailey. Then we greated Rachel from her flight home from winnipeg volleyball provincials. We headed off onto the Zoom airline, what a thrill. The plane didn't bring much except for a few mario kart wins from mostly the team, and occasionally mike. Arriving safely in Paris we just so happened to get lost in the airport, to add to our already long day and jet leg. Once we found our barrings we rented cars and headed to our hotel, Premiere Classe. We all got geared up and had a quick meeting, before our night on the town. We all decided we'd visit the Eiffel tower, which was radiant like usual, even though it was raining we still got some creative pictures. Mike did an amazing parking job, parrall that is! Our car ride home from Eiffel de Tower was interesting, stressful and brought an all new meaning to Crazy. John our great leader, who is now demoted to follower, lost the two cars following behind. Of course this misplacment was right in the traffic circle of doom ( beside the arche de truimph). This 7 lane traffic round-a-bout was one of the scariest things the girls in mike car (Jodi, Jaelyn, Shiobhan, Nicole, alyssa and Jenn) have experianced, as they weaved between cars and skidded to haults, doing this deathly traffic circle 4 times. Finally we all made it home, after paying a taxi driver to lead the way. As John and the girls in his van, shrugged their shoulders and headed on home. So much exceitment already, on the first day. We all miss you and will keep you updated.

By: Jaelyn- who misses her mom

and Jenny

Ps. we miss you jaymie, its not the same without you!

Alberta Girls Ready to take on France teams and prepare for Pan-ams with 18 practice and 10 games

2008-07-21T15:12:00.000-07:00

Here is the Schedule for the trip
July 28th-Aug 3rd is Sightseeing (but will Have training as well )
July 27th - Depart
Leave Edmonton by Cars 1:00pm
Meet girls From Calgary 5:00pm in front of Air Zoom
From Calgary July 27th Air Zoom 8:55pm / Arrive in Paris July 28th 2:00pm

July 28th-July 30th - In Paris:
Hotel -Premiere Classe Roissy,Zac Du Parc De Roissy-Allee Des Vergers
Roissy En France,95700
Evening July 28th (go downtown and sight See)
July 29th – Verdun in the morning and Handball Store in the afternoon, head into downtown Paris in the evening
July 30th – Spend the day in Paris

Depart July 30th Air France 7:00pm-Arrive in Rome 9:05pm
Hotel- Best Western Globus Hotel Viale Ippocrate, 119it Roma, oo161, Italy
Phone: 011-39-06445-7001
July 31st- Coliseum and the Roman Forum,Spend evening downtown
Aug 1st- Catacombs, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish steps
August 2nd- Beach
August 3rd- Vatican, Pope in the moring talks in front of a big crowd

(Note:All meals are at the Centre we are staying at in Toulouse and Perpignan)
August 4th Depart to Toulouse
Air France- Depart Rome 7:20am-Arrive in Paris 9:30am Depart Paris 10:30am and arrive in Toulouse 11:45am
· Lodging Creps de Toulouse (Sports Center) http://www.midi-pyrenees.jeunesse-sports.gouv.fr/web/creps/11-le-creps-de-toulouse-mp.php
Aug 4th
· 4:00pm- Practice
August 5th
· Practice 10:00am
· Practice 4:00pm
· 4:45pm Arrival of Quebec players
August 6th
· 10:00am Practice
· 6:00pm Game Vs Couteaux-Toulouse
· After Game Watch Professional Practice Senior Women
August 7th
· 10:00am Practice
· 3:00pm Practice
· 7:00pm Game Vs Toulouse
August 8th
· Day Off (sightseeing in Toulouse)
· Depart to Perpignan

Lodging on Perpignan-Clous Perpignan (University http://195.83.178.2/accueil.aspx?code=416&deplier=1)

August 9th
· 10:00am Practice
· 3:00pm Practice
· 7:00pm Game Vs Perpignan #2
August 10th
· 11:00am Practice (outside)
· 7:00pm Game Vs Rivesaltes
August 11th
· 10:00am Practice
Rest of the day sightsee (Palais Roi Majorque) http://histoireduroussillon.free.fr/Thematiques/Batiments/Histoire/PalaisDesRoisDeMajorque.php

August 12th
· 10:00am Practice
· 3:00pm Practice
· 7:00pm Game Vs Argeles
August 13th
· 10:00am Practice
· 7:00pm Game vs Perpignan#1
August 14th
· Day off (Go to Beach)
August 15th
· 10:00am Practice
· Right after Depart to Montpellier (Sightsee)
· 7:00pm Game Vs Montpellier
August 16th
· 10:00am Practice
· 3:00pm Practice
· 7:00pm Game Vs Catalogne Nord All Star team
August 17th
· 10:00am Practice
· 7:00pm Catalogne Nord All Star team Senior
August 18th
· 10:00am Practice
· 7:00pm Game vs a Select team from Perpignan
August 19th
Depart to Back to Parise
Hotel Same Lodging as early in the trip
August 20th
Depart Home
11:30am Air Zoom - arrive in Calgary July 16th 1:00pm

Preparation begins July 18th

2008-07-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

The preparation begins for the Alberta Juvenile team July 18th with a one week camp before heading out on July 27th to Paris for 3 days of sightseeing and then 4 days of sightseeing in Rome before heading on August 4th to Toulouse to play some games and practice until the 8th where they will be off to perpengion until August 19th for games and practice. on August 8th players from Quebec are meeting the Alberta players where then we will select top 16 players to go to pan-am Championships in Brazil Sept 1-7th

Here is the players who are going

Meghan Paige Belrose
Kaylee Marie Akre
Christina Marie Wetzstein
Jennifer Taylor
Miranda Ashley Monty
Siobhan Elizabeth Taylor
Jennifer Rose Randolph
Jodi Katherine Evelyn Ehrman
Nicole Alexandra Leger
Shannon Lee Proskow
Alyssa Rayner
HOLLY MICHELLE DESLAURIER
JAELYN CAROL PIASETZKI
RACHEL LYNN WIENS
Rebecca Lyn Hampton

Coach Mike Nahmiash