(photo: Bogetti-Smith – www.bogetti.com)
Today is my last game. We play an experienced, cagey Mexican team tonight at 5pm PDT to wrap up the round robin. Both teams are 2-0 so far, meaning the winner will finish first in Pool A. Same scenario on the other side where Brazil and the USA will play to determine first place in Pool B. That game is at 7pm. You can watch both live at sportscanada.tv or archived at wheelchairbasketball.ca.
After that, I will slip back into my housecoat and slippers and smoke my pipe on the sidelines while the rest of the guys suit up for the quarterfinals tomorrow.
I will admit I’m having a little trouble explaining to myself and others why I don’t want to do this anymore. As I survey my immediate surroundings and latest experiences, “this” means having fun on the court, being part of a great team, mixing with the international basketball community, showing off with cameras around, and staying in multiple-star hotels. (ONLY 4 pillows per bed though? Really Sheraton?!)
That’s not to mention all the other exciting and fulfilling aspects of competing internationally. Representing Canada, traveling the globe, playing on the world stage. It’s where talent meets passion meets resources (increasingly). A highly addictive cocktail that is the pursuit of excellence.
And I’m sure there are other perks I’m forgetting at the moment.
So why not keep playing?
Answer coming tomorrow.
(Hint – John 3:30)
