Camp Hints

For the NSW Country team, we have to have training camps where we stay over the weekend together. Due to the various locations our players live in. This year our 2 further most players were over 1500 kms away from each other. This is a challenge in itself, with some players having to fly in for weekend training camps. 

The biggest camp is the first one, where there are around 30 players to feed and normally about 2-4 staff (depending on how many the head coach decides they would like). The camps run from Fridays to Sundays meaning 5 meals in total (2 dinners 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch) and light snacks in between. 

The players are certainly put through their paces. So when it comes to food they are always famished. The easy off the shelf snacks are not the nutritional option that is good for their energy levels during an intense training camp like these. 

Here is what a typical camp menu would look like.

Friday - Arrive: 6.30 pm  (instruct to have dinner before they arrive)

Light snack: 

Ham and Cheese toasted sandwiches

Fruit 

Supper: 

Hot Milo

Fruit 

Rice Biscuits

Saturday

Breakfast:

Cereal (2-3 choices)

Yogurt

Toast

Up & Go/Chocolate Milk

Lunch:

Wraps with cold meats and salad

Dinner:

BBQ Chickens - have the shop cut them into 1/8 or 1/4

Salad

Potato Bake

Sunday

Breakfast:

Cereal (2-3 choices)

Yoghurt

Toast

Up & Go/Chocolate Milk

Snacks: 

Training sessions would normally run a couple of hours at a time so in between I would provide toasted sandwiches, fruit or some baked treats or more familiar home snacks (ie chips, muesli bars).

After the first camp I got a sense of what they like so I can provide more of that. I learnt quickly that the team I was looking after could not get enough hommus for their wraps/sandwiches and watermelon at fruit breaks. I would always provide extra of that each time. 

Whilst we didn't offer lunch on the Sunday, any left over food I would make up into take home snacks. There was regularly a long drive ahead for most families so to have something healthy to take along with them was always received well.

I would always set up breakfast before I would go to bed so then in the morning all that needed to put out on the table is milk and yogurt. If it took a while to get the players settled or it was a late night it meant that there was little preparation required.

I invested in a box for all the condiments that I had bought and any items that could be used from camp to camp that was not used up entirely. Particularly for items such as salt and pepper, spreads etc. Also depending on what venue the camps are at you may need to pack in some essential kitchen utensils. Whist some venues have ample facilities, its frustrating when you arrive to find that the kitchen is missing a good sharp knife or tea towels. I would always pack in the following items:

• Sharp knives - one smaller and one bigger
• Chopping boards
• Tea Towels
• Zip lock bags
• Cling Wrap
• Peeler
• Paper Towel

These basics will get you through even the basic of kitchens. 

Keeping the meals simple, means that you will be able to adequate feed the fussiest of eaters. Salads would never be tossed, just a lot of salad items laid out for them to build their own. Salad dressings left on the side so it can be added or not. 

Day 11 - there's no place like home

After a very late night for everyone it was always going to be hard getting up the earliest we have had to in days. We are headed home today from our campaign for the U16s Australian Junior Championships. Truly a surreal experience indeed.
Tip #1: Have an exit plan. Make sure each member of the team has a specific job/area to be responsible for, this saves confusion and lots of kids basically wandering around doing nothing.
The girls are woken at 7am. They hit breakfast probably not until 7.30am as it would appear that around 3am a few woke up to begin chatting again. As they have their phones back I SMS them all what their areas of responsibility are. I knew they would all be lying in bed with their phones at an arms reach. I was right! I soon hear one of the girls reading out my message. They all hit the breakfast bar and start to go about the tasks that I have asked of them. Some of them were smart enough to get their bags packed last night so are ahead of the rest. It's after 8am when I decide to check their progress only to find a handful of girls straightening their hair. Their priorities are obviously different to mine. I tell them that hair is secondary to the other things that I have asked them to do. We have a massive house and lots of cleaning up to be done. Let's be honest, this has not been their strong point throughout out time here. They come out of various areas of the house with garbage bags and items from the bathroom 'ewww-ing' and all I have to say is 'I know'. It is interesting how they have simply ignored these things all week until they have to clean it up.
We farewell a couple of team members as they have chosen to travel home by car with their families. So I now only need to count to 8, after having to count to 10 all week.
We do get on the road in time, and make our way to the airport. With one stop at the stadium to pick up the copy of our Bronze Medal match. Devastation to hear that it had not been recorded. Of all the matches to be missed? How did this happen? Our coach uses his contacts (his mum) to locate an alternative copy and we are on our way again.
I am driving the car this time as one of our coaches isn't traveling with us so our head coach takes the bus driving duties. It's an easy drive, all freeways really and nothing is looking familiar on the way back. It seems like a life time ago that we arrived. The girls look like they are having a good time on the bus as I follow them all the way to the airport. They are taking selfies and smiling and waving out the back of the bus.
We pull into the airport and hand over the car and bus and make our way to the terminal. All smooth sailing through check in except when one of our girls suitcase is over the limit. We get some help to remove a couple of things and then we can continue.
I send off the girls in groups of 4 to buy lunch and then instruct them to meet us at the gates at a set time. I grab some lunch and of course a coffee too and head to the gate. Thinking it would be great to just have a seat and a relax before the flight home.
The flight is on time and smooth, and the coach has taken the opportunity to have a snooze, I think he has hit a wall. I am sitting there thinking about the time that has past and all the things that happened. I smile as I look down at the medal we've won. What a special treat to be part of something so special.
We touchdown in Sydney and all the girls power walk it out to the carousel to collect their luggage. They still have their bright material bows on their bags and the system works again as all the luggage is pulled off by whoever sees it first. Parents, grandparents and family members are there to welcome us home. Lots of hugs and thanks as we all part and go our separate ways home.
My husband picks us up with the Coach and we head up the freeway home. On the trip we fill in my husband on all the stories he has missed out on. Giving him some game insights and the funny things that happened both on and off the court. It was nice to debrief about the time knowing that its all over and the craziness is now at the end.
What a very special experience to be a part of and I am not nearly as weary and worn out that I thought that I would be. It is a constant flow of requests and hard work, but good organisation with a level of flexibility and a whole lot of patience is exactly what is needed to make it a memorable time for all.
I have so many other tips for the jobs required of a manager for training camps and the other items and planning. But will blog about that another day.
Thanks for following us,
Signing off
Team Manager of Bronze Medallist Team at Basketball Australia's U16 Australian Championships 2014

Day 10 - Bronze is the new gold!

I set my alarm this morning just a little bit earlier than the girls so I could set up breakfast and basically go back to bed for a bit. Night after night having gone to bed after midnight was making it harder to get out of bed. But certainly been worth it.
There are a few rustlings in the house that tells me the girls are starting to get up. I hear them tinkering away in the kitchen, obviously getting breakfast as they have done each morning. Soon I hear the coaches voice telling the girls it's time for their walk. So off they go. I know its cold by the comments as they walk out the door.
News begins to filter in that the favourites (and winners for the last 16 years) were now our competitors in the bronze medal match. They had lost their Semi in a controversial match up. This was the team that we had lost to in the pool rounds and whilst the girls had confidence, it was obvious that it made them nervous too.
I decide that we need some junk food for after the game. The girls have not been allowed to indulge whilst we have been here so knowing that this is our last game of Nationals means a treat for the girls is definitely in order. I talk with the coach about how after the game we should invite the parents back for a bit of a presentation and a few words about each of the girls. So off I toddle to the supermarket to pick up some entertaining snacks and lollies for the kids.
While I am gone they have gotten dressed and are anxious to have their team meeting and head off. But they opt to watch a bit of TV to pass the time. Finally they get the nod from the coaches that they can come and check out the tape of the game and talk about their match ups.
They come out of the meeting looking determined and off they go into the bus. The coach and I take a deep breath, he looks at me and says "well this is it". We have had a crazy 10 days, and we both can't believe how fast it has gone.
We arrive and have heaps of time to prepare for the game and I go on the hunt for the team photos. The photographers were not available at the desk at the time I went so I asked around a bit to some of the friendly and familiar faces I've come to know. They were saying that they should be back soon.
Fifteen minutes later, those lovely familiar faces had located them and got them to bring over to my court. Fabulous, but I don't let the girls see them as they will simply just get distracted saying how much they hate their photo (girls these days).
The girls look relaxed, which is great. A far cry from the very nervous bunch that arrived at the Arena 10 days ago. The game starts and there is huge support for us from the crowd. Noise makers, screams and cheers fill the stadium, it really was an incredible feeling, I am getting goosebumps just thinking about it. The girls play incredibly and when the final buzzer sounded we were the WINNERS!!! A 3 point win, and boy were the girls excited, not to mention our coaches. Our Assistant Coach picked up our Coach, and I am not sure his back and ribs will ever be the same. But truly exciting as I look around and there is not a dry eye around me and in the stands. We huddle in and then link arms in a line and wave at the parents and supporters in the stands. A very special moment indeed. We break tradition and let the girls run to see their parents straight away. I think I am in shock as we had beaten 'the unbeatable' team.
There are lots of hugs and well wishes. I made sure I saw each parent and gave them a big hug and thanking them for their support. What a brilliant bunch of parents.
We depart and tell them all we will see them soon back at our place. The coach fields message after message from well wishers from around the basketball community.
As soon as I arrive home I quickly set up for the parents to come and then pop back out again to get the kids McDonalds. Another treat for their efforts. No one complained about that at all. The parents give me a lovely gift, as well as the coaches. I am super lucky as I get a chance to thank the parents, the coaches and the girls for a brilliant experience.
The parents all start to leave and we start to get ready to head back to the stadium for our NSW country men's gold medal match and the closing ceremony where we will receive our Bronze Medal. I check my phone to find no messages. I guess when you win, people don't think to congratulate the manager. But that's ok, the medal is as much mine as the rest of the team.
The boys take out the gold in their match, meaning both NSW Country teams are coming home with medals. During the match I read the most heart warming post on Facebook.
"Very proud husband. Wifey has been working her butt off over the past few months arranging everything as manager for the 16 girls NSW country basketball team. All her hard work and countless hours paid off today as the team finished with the bronze medal. 3rd best team in Australia but the BEST manager in Australia. Well done. Maybe you will get the opportunity next year to go a couple of places better?????"
This made my heart happy!
The closing ceremony starts and we are the first up. It feels good to get a medal. I have never been a real sporty person myself so never really experienced this apart from being a manager. So awesome. Lots of pictures and hugs and congrats from all those around.
The fun begins when we get home, the excitement from the girls means that we have a very noisy household for a long time tonight. The girls all decide to bunk in together for their last night. I have no washing to do, but look at the clock and it's already midnight. I haven't even had dinner yet. I am go through the kitchen to see what sort of food we have left. I choose some left over pizza while I blog. The morning will be busy, so I hope that it all comes together.
What an incredible time I've had here. I can't believe its all over.

Day 9 - oh its on!!!!!

A nice chilled out morning again today with the girls getting up at 8am for a good brekky! I am not sure whether the coaches were excited or whether the girls were restless, but the morning walk went ahead slightly earlier today. It was a start like normal, and the girls were relaxed and happy.All having slept well and having a good night sleep.
The morning sort of got away without me, and not sure where the time went, but all of a sudden I needed to be ready, have morning tea on the table and get ready to head out the door. The girls have been keeping track of time, without a clock in the house and without their phones. Kids rarely wear watches as they use their phones for a clock often. We also pack a lunch today as the NSW Country boys play in their semi final straight after ours, so we are hanging around to lend our support to them too.
We get in the bus and the car and head in. The coach and I enjoy some tunes. We are the same age so grew up with the same music. So often the music selection is a subject of choice. Today we spoke about the Bangles - Eternal Flame as it came on the radio. Holler if you remember that one?? I have been sharing a little bit about my upbringing during these trips and had told stories about the strict rules about 'devil music' in the house as a kid and recalling that the Bangles was the first 'secular' music cassette tape I had ever owned. Our coaches 1st cassette was Belinda Carlisle - Heaven is a place on earth. I giggled. This banter has helped pass the time (and the nerves).
We arrive in plenty of time and this was the first game slot for the day. So we had heaps of time to get prepared and ready for the game.
A warm welcome and good luck from Danny Martinez again today. What a lovely bloke he is. Glad to have met him and to know who is at the helm of NSW Basketball. I have had such a ball meeting so many new people and making new acquaintances across the basketball community around Australia. How lucky am I? It's interesting though how there are some NSW supporters who have been here all week and are yet to say hi, or ever reciprocate a smile? Perhaps I am too scary........hahaha, for anyone that knows me would understand that this is VERY far from the truth. I'll have a chat with anyone. I am not sure who they, maybe I am supposed to? Being a fairly new comer to the basketball community (only 4 years or so) there are lots of people that I feel that you're expected to know........you know....so and so. I am clueless, but have met many other wonderful people in the NSW Country Basketball world who are awesome. Perhaps in time those others might actually befriend me, but until then, I'll just continue on with my managing and enjoy my time here with the girls.
We set up on the bench and the scene is set as we go up against QLD South. If we win this we are in the Gold Medal final. The girls get off to a good start and looking really good. We a nail biter till the end, finally going down by 1 point!!
Wow, so much to be proud of but the girls and coaching staff are bitterly disappointed. I simply cannot be, and continued to smile all the way through to the end. What a privilege it is to represent your state (even if it is filling drink bottles and washing towels) and can't possibly be upset with where we have gotten to so far. Considering there was an online article tipping that we would be playing off for the 9th-12th places. We certainly have shown them.
Our coach was brilliant and made sure that in the post game huddle told the girls to keep their heads up. He was proud of them too. Just didn't go our way today.
The up side is that I remembered the lollies at half time! Yay me!
The girls stretch down and soon they will face their parents for some love. There are definitely some tears today. And understandably so too. They are so invested in this. Even my daughter who has been helping me out throughout this time was sad. We've all had a part to play, no matter how big or small. But tomorrow is another day and the girls recover quickly as they take a seat together to support the boys.
We head home and start the long process of shower time. I love the girls but my goodness to get 10 girls showered and dressed can feel like an eternity! And we have 3 bathrooms, who knows.
I am doing the rounds of the house today and find the 2 of the girls have sneaked into the pantry (and closed the door) to raid my Tim Tam stash. Though I didn't realise what they were doing till they had to come out for their shower. Cheeky little monkeys, but seriously I love them all to pieces and can't be cross for long.
We have dinner soon after and the settle in for movie night. 'Blended' is the movie that we watch with Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. They are a great pair on screen. Girls loved it, but just before its finished I realised that I haven't got any milk for breakfast so I tell the girls to finish the movie while I pop down the road. It's 9.30pm and thank goodness Woolworths is still open.
I am so pleased to be here with these girls. Lots of cuddles today, I think it is starting to register that it is all nearly over. All the girls can think of now is the final game and the last night together and if we can have a party. All I can think of is how the hell are we going to clean the bus and the house before we leave.
I couldn't possibly finish the blog today without one tip?
Tip #1: Be GRACIOUS is defeat, no matter what position in the team you are. Even the manager!

Day 8 - We did what???

Tip #1: Routine Routine Routine - apart from being superstitious before big games, it helps bring normality to the day, and helps the players relax.
A bit of a sleep in this morning and big breakfast. Lots of options for the girls this morning. Cereal, eggs, bacon, toast, crumpets, yogurt. The girls always eat well.  They will need their fuel for the upcoming match up today.
After breakfast the daily walk is in order. They arrive home all giggles and laughter with stories to tell from new information shared on the walk. Though its always cold, I think the girls enjoy the walk together.
While the girls chill in front of the TV I get to work on preparing a 'light snack' so the girls have enough energy in the tank for the game ahead. Our game time is at 1pm making it a difficult one for meals. So the snack I prepare is a combination of fruit and low GI bite size snacks.
Just before we go the coaching staff get the girls together to run through some tape and match ups. And off we go!!
Everyone is relaxed and happy on the trip in. We arrive in plenty of time and a big smile and welcome from Frank the court manager. A true legend.
I take my player to be taped and then off to the change rooms. It's quiet but the girls look ready (and focused). Whilst I would love to stay and listen in, I had thoughts of sneaking in a coffee before the game, but then realise that I need to check which side of the bench we are on. I go to the board to find out, by the time I do that, the window of opportunity has passed and duty calls. I arrive at the bench to find the other team starting to unpack their stuff on our bench. The conversation was sort of weird, like they thought there was a choice of which end we would be at. I politely explained we were Team A (meaning this was our bench) and they got the message.
The girls start to file out of the change room and start to warm up. While I was setting up I met Daniel Martinez (the CEO of Basketball NSW) who popped over to say hi and to ask if we had any behind the scenes photos as that is what people really want to see in the newsletters they produce. Hello? Do I have any photos?
Tip #2: Set up a private Facebook group where all your parents and players can have a private space to interact. As the manager I have full access over who can join the group etc. It has been a great way to give parents some insight into the behind the scenes happenings and allows them some peace of mind about how their kids are doing and what they are up to. Let's be honest, teenagers rarely provide detail when they get home from anywhere. I have used it to poll the parents and the kids about food, clothing needs etc in the lead up to the trip.
So I explained to Daniel that I have plenty and had already sent a couple off to the BNSW marketing guy as well as writing this blog. He was very impressed, but ultimately just wanted to make information accessible making it an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
The game was so impressive to watch.as our girls got more and more of a lead. It never looked like we were going to lose. Our composure and athleticism was no match for our opposition. But we were gracious in victory as our opposition were the other NSW team and I went over and hugged and kissed all the coaches. They are a great bunch of people, and we are sad that only one of us can progress to the semi finals.
Holy crap........that means we are in the top 4 in the country!!! The girls squealing with excitement as they come off the court was enough to bring a tear to my eye.
Lots of hugs from parents and big smiles. A very positive time. 1 injury throughout the game ( a twisted ankle - only jarred I think) so a big success.
A treat for the girls will be Subway again. They cheered like nothing else. On the way home the coaches realised they should have been back at the stadium scouting again, so we make contact with the bus and pull over to switch drivers so I can take the girls on the bus home, and the coaches can turn around and head back. I take the drivers seat and crank up the music. We are all high on adrenaline.
Subway are happy to see us and we spend the rest of the afternoon in recovery sessions, having showers and getting ready for dinner.
The coaches mum is having the girls over for dinner to give me a night off. Which is very thoughtful. So we head out to their place and enjoy some homemade burgers. Yummo!
The girls are able to have plenty of time to chill back at home after dinner, and then an 'earlyish' night. Well for the girls anyway. I always blog whilst a number of washing loads are done and thrown into the dryer in preparation for the next day. Whilst there is some time in the morning to do things like that I like to have it all done so in the morning I have nothing more to think about other than getting the girls breakfast and a snack and that's it.
Reflecting on the day it was truly awesome and we have so many supporters, who I can't name as many of them are not from NSW. Perhaps I will tell you after the tournament, but its obvious that we have a lot of people backing us as they pass by our bench as I have been setting up each day, giving me a thumbs up or a wishing us an authentic 'good luck'.
Bring on tomorrow. This is so exciting, I really can't believe its happening.

Day 7 - Living the dream

Routine is great for the girls and so important. Today they were up for a walk. But a bit shorter as the coaches were off to scout a game this morning (but also was a bit rainy this morning too). Before they left they wished one of our players a very happy birthday. I can't believe we have 2 birthday's in a row in our team. Being a family who loves birthdays and have a morning routine for our birthday girls, it must be tough to wake up and not be with your family.
Off they trudged and I set up for breakfast. A few items had run out today much to the girls dismay :(
Note to self: Don't run out of the stuff they like.After breakfast our injured player returned after spending hours at the hospital under observation and a night sleeping at her mum's accommodation (due to leaving the hospital at 1am). She still wasn't quite herself, but was happier than the night before.
We had a bit of a chill out before starting to get ready to head out to the game. We were playing at 11.30am so it wasn't too long before it was time to board the bus and with the coaches missing it was time again for me to take control of the bus ride in. I am quite OK with this, however not great at reversing and parking so I call in for back up when I reach the car park at the stadium to park it.
Today marks the last games of the pool rounds and to date have only lost one game. The girls are handling themselves so well and boy are we proud of them. Today they came out to play alright and each player dug in. We had 2 on the bench who didn't even play (due to resting injuries) and we still nailed it. Today's game included a quick change of a uniform due to blood mark after a player was scratched across her leg.
Juggling issues like that whilst an unexpected time out is called and drink bottles and towels are needed. It can get a bit hectic and once you're out of whack, can take a little while to get back on track.
The bottom line is that we were not going to be bullied on the court by NZ today and we nailed a brilliant win 78-49. We have a chance to give it a good go! This win takes us to the quarter finals. Now that is exciting.
Tip #1: Be considerate of where you will be 'dropping' in to. Whilst you may not always be dining at 'restaurants' its still polite to give them a heads up that you are headed their way. This is what I did with our lunch choice today.
I decide to treat the girls to Subway on the way home. A healthy 'takeaway' option. The girls feel like they are getting a treat whilst still remaining reasonably healthy. We take it home to have lunch together, but the girls are very grateful for this.
On the way home they had asked if they were able to go back and watch the boys team play to fill in their afternoon. It was something the coaches wanted to do too, so off they went. They were packed up in the bus and I remained home to do some running around and chores.
Tip #2: Confirm and reconfirm. Check in on places that you have booked in to ensure that you are all on the same page. How can you make their life easier as well as making it easy for those who are dining with you.
I head out to the physio to purchase some specialist tape for one of our girls, then pop in to speak to the manager of the club. Later tonight we have a dinner out at a local club where all the families have been invited too (and to celebrate our birthday girl too). I speak with them about how it will work, where we will be seated, and how would you like for me to communicate to the families how we can all get our meals served quickly and without confusion. They were wonderfully helpful at the Torquay Hotel. Now I am looking forward to coming back for dinner tonight.
I hit the shops to refill some of the groceries and head home to unpack, wash uniforms and prepare for the arrival of the girls. They return to spring into action to get ready for dinner. It was funny to watch the decision making about whether to remain in uniform or to wear other 'clothes'. Finally deciding they would prefer to wear their uniforms. It's obvious they are proud to be in them, and rightfully so.
The girls are ready on time and we head out to meet up with the families. I am sure the parents are missing their kids, but when they arrive the kids are too busy chattering with each other to notice. Although it is a great time for parents to get together too.
What was particularly cute to watch was our parents also working as a team. They rearranged the furniture to ensure they were on one long table instead of lots of little ones.
We ate, we sung happy birthday and we said good bye to the parents before making our way back home for a stretch and then bed. The girls were still buzzing from their night out, but quickly settled into bed. Only one round of the rooms before they were all fast asleep.
I am still finding it hard to believe that this is already DAY 7!!!
The coaches communicate the morning plan which helps me plan what we need to have ready for breakfast and the morning in general.
Bring on the quarter finals. We are ready!

Day 6 - bouncing back and loving it

A double header today means that we are busy busy! We wait for our assistant coach to walk into the house as we burst into song "Happy Birthday to you!!!". All he wanted for his birthday was 2 wins he said. We will have to wait and see. There have been so many mixed results and some surprise teams. Its starting to feel like its anyone's game.
But to start the day a very windy and cold walk meaning that it will be very short (only half an hour). It's great to have a routine but also to get the girls out of the house.
Back home to enjoy brekky and relax and get into the right head space for the game. I put out healthy snacks and fruit too so the girls can keep the energy stores up. Fortunately the girls enjoy each other's company and pass the time by chilling out and watching movies, chatting and swapping stories.
The washing was sitting dry in the dryer from the night before, backing up after a 7pm game then an 11.30am game the next day sometimes means that everything is not exactly smoothly running, and a little bit more rushed. But the girls can work themselves out easily enough. Grabbing the uniforms and distributing them to make sure all were looked after.
We headed out to the game ready and in the right frame of mind. and not surprisingly came out with a win!!
Another great game with helpful staff and quality basketball. Parents are beaming and the tenacity of the girls to back up after a loss was truly inspiring to watch.
Today I had to say goodbye to my family who had come to visit but made their way back home, so I said my goodbyes and wished they were able to stay on.
Tip #1: Use your other staff to run out to get grocery items when time is short. Be specific in what you want and you will get exactly what you are after.
Back home to get lunch together, on the menu today is lasagne and salad. I start to prepare whilst sending our assistant coach off to buy some items for later in the day. Finally lunch is served and is snavelled up in no time. After clean up its time to hit the physio again which has been factored into our day.
We arrive back and it's time to get ready again. Yes the uniforms were washed in between games and ready to go again. I was lucky today as the coaches mum offered to take the towels and wash them to help out with one less load to do.
The girls have packed some extra food for the trip back in and off we go again. We hope to give our coach his second win birthday present. The girls are looking really relaxed. No signs of nerves, but on the way in we hear of an upset win in the other pool making it interesting for the placings. Our coach reiterates that its anyone's game. And in this tournament it couldn't be truer.
We come out to play, putting on the accelerator and not stopping until the buzzer at the end of the 4th quarter. A casualty in this game though, one of our players took a knock to the head and has a visit to the hospital with suspected concussion. I'm sure she will be ok, and be back firing on all 4 cylinders tomorrow.
A hilarious moment in the game tonight was when I was checking on the player who was hurt, and not concentrating on what was happening on the court. Before I knew it I copped a ball to the head. Pretty hard too. The crowd made an audible gasp. It was pretty funny for me though "I'm okay everyone"! The referee even got a giggle coming over to check I was OK and if I would like him to give the player responsible a warning (said with a very cheeky grin on his face).
But most importantly tonight was another win. Seriously impressed with this group of girls. A underestimated bunch who come out as a team and play as a team.
After the game and doing the rounds a number of parents ask me how I am coping, am I tired etc. I can honestly say, no I am not. I am loving it all!!!
We come home to a warm and light dinner and get ready, as another team birthday awaits us tomorrow. Hopefully our missing player will arrive back to us in the morning all well.

Day 5 - A long wait to be as proud as punch

Today started with a sleep in!! Mainly because we had a lot of time to fill in as our 1 game today tipped off at 7pm. Today gave us the time to do a little bit of sight seeing so instead of the regular walk around where we were staying the girls were taken to Bell's Beach for a walk around there. Because of the later day it afforded us the time to have a lazy bacon and egg breakfast too. But as always cereal, toast, yoghurts etc available too.
With player in need of a physio, the first order of business was to find one close by that could squeeze her in. Fortunately there was a recommended physio that the organisers had connected with prior to the tournament to see to players. We were lucky enough to not only jag an appointment with a practice 5 mins from home, but the same physio for the SEABL team. To have a physio who understands the sport and the movements required to play was invaluable.
But before the appointment I headed to get more food. I feel like I have been there hundreds of times already in the last 5 days, but its accessibility has been great so we haven't had to stock up on a lot of food at once. We don't really have the space in the pantry to have days of food on hand, so I normally have enough food for the next 3-4 meals ahead of time.
Tip #1: When managing/coaching a girls team it is important to have more than one female on staff. A manager and at least one coach. To be the only female as well as the manager makes it challenging to be in multiple places at once. In fact it should be mandatory. Not only to provide support to the manager but also to grow the capabilities of our female basketball coaches.
I had to come home quickly from shopping to take a player to the physio, seeing as though our coaches are all male and not allowed to go with a female player alone. So while the rest of the team hit the factory outlets nearby I headed to the appointment. Our coach's mother (who lives in the area) offered to be the female presence in the house if I would have liked to go to the factory outlets with my family (who were also visiting to support the team). However the tight schedule and my need to be in multiple places concurrently meant that I had to decline.
After getting home after the appointment and dropping the player to be with her team mates, I sprung into action to cook up some serious carbs!! On the menu for lunch was Chicken Carbonara. My biggest challenge has always been working out quantities, especially when having to quadruple the amount of people that I am catering for in comparison to my own family of 4. But fortunately today it all worked out and my dish was a hit. So much so that it looks like we will add it to the menu for another day later in the week.
Tip #2: Flexibility is key. It's great, and very helpful, to be organised but also good to be flexible particularly when you come across something the players love.
A late lunch has meant that the afternoon is spent resting and mentally preparing. Tonight's game is against the reigning champs. But the girls are taking it all in their stride. They know they have what it takes to give it a RED HOT go! When we call that it's time to get ready the girls quickly obliged and spent the last 10 minutes before we leave going over player match ups with the coaches.
We arrive at the stadium and again allocated the SEABL change room. Our coach gives the girls some final instructions, then we maximise our time to warm up. I asked a dumb question today and could only blame it on having just finished my first, and only coffee for the day. I am sure the poor court manager thought that I was a moron. I counted the chairs and we were short 2 chairs.
"I have 14 people on our bench, but we only have 12 chairs. Can I have a couple more?"
"Um there will be 5 players on the court"
Insert Red face here! I am thankful for the patience of the staff and for not laughing at me.
Game time - It's tense, but our girls are ready. They take it all in their stride, and kept the scoreline close pretty much the whole game, surprising many people I think. What works for us is that we are a team. Sounds strange I know given that we are playing basketball. But there aren't any selfish players out there. This also means that we have a lot of strength in the bench as well as the starters. It was great to look up into the stands to see our Metro NSW girls there to support us as well. Lifting the spirits of the girls throughout the game.
Whilst we suffered a loss, I was as proud as punch. I couldn't believe how mature the girls were to just keep going. It was obvious that the parents were so proud too and still positive in defeat.
Some chatting with family as always after the game and stretching time. They love this time with their families. I make sure that I try to chat with each parent too. Not only to express my pride in the girls, but to reassure and advise how things are on the home front too.
We head home for a 'dinner' of sorts. I just layout lots of cold meat, bread and leftovers. But the most popular choice tonight is toasted cheese sandwiches. A quick and yummy winter snack, before heading off to bed. A big day tomorrow.....2 games.
BRING IT ON!!!!!

Day 4 - Can we back up? Yes we can!!!!

Can't believe that a week from today we are headed home. The first few days have flown by. The structure of the tournament means that mainly you play once a day and today was no different really. If only you could always play at the same time to make scheduling easier. But at this level you get what you're given with all the times being shared around.
Overnight we found out that one of our players was up for 'Player of the Day' for yesterday so we lifted the social media ban to allow the girls to jump on and vote. Unfortunately it was not enough to win, but she was our player of the day anyway.
A good morning walk again today with each of the girls having some individual feedback from their coaches. It is their opportunity to hear about their positive contributions and those areas that need some attention.The coaches have been brilliant in building the confidence of the girls but also bringing them into line when they are not following their instructions. Its a delicate balance, especially when you are dealing with teenage girls.
The girls have another spoons tournament to fill in the time while I went to do a more substantial shop, and then we have an early lunch again to meet the departure deadline. I get them to pack some snacks in case they are a bit hungry before the game or on the way home from the game.
The tournament is being run really well. The staff on the ground have been brilliant. When a strapper was not available at the regular place, the staff jumped to attention to locate someone who was skilled to fill the need.
A special treat for me today was seeing a recent friend Ainslie who I had met when I was attending as a manager to the Australian Murray River Country Jamboree. Ainslie had coached there. That's the great thing about the basketball community, everyone knows everyone and you can find a friend in most stadiums across the country. Geelong is her home stadium, so she helped me through to our change room, but loved that she understood when I needed to attend to my players. We had the SEABL change room today.....which will only mean something to basketball people. Needless to say, it's pretty awesome.
Tip #1 (the same as Tip #2 from Day 2): Make friends. Today it was the scoretable's turn to give a smile to. They were all very responsive and when it came to having to be told about an issue with long hair getting in the way of numbers they were able to approach in such a way that made it resolved very easily.
The game today was awesome, I was more organised on the bench and had a better plan of attack. The lollies were nearly left behind so, the girls were grateful to have a sugar hit. I was confident they would do well, but it was an untidy game, but the end result was that we won vs ACT. A highlight was our coach who jumped in to assist  the oppositions player when they rolled on their ankle pretty bad. Their bench was not even moving to assist while the player was sobbing on the floor.That's how we roll here at NSW Country! We will always help, even in the middle of an intense match up and our opposition is hurt. Go Pete.
It felt good. The girls were much more relaxed and after the game were very proud of themselves And rightfully so.
A catch up with the families after was great. Let's hope the parents are as supportive if, heaven forbid, we have a loss. I think we are going to be ok though. I have been blessed with a great bunch of families who are just as cool as their kids. Some blisters and bumps after this game though, like war wounds.
We came home and the time just flies by. On the way home I get a call from the girls who have arrived home before me, that they were wanting to bake some cookies. Of course they can (with some instructions and guidelines )!
Tip #2: If you have a charcoal chicken shop or a supermarket nearby then pre-order BBQ chickens cut up into servable size pieces ie quarters or eighths for a quick and easy meal one night.
By the time I get home the cookies are nearly ready for the oven as I take back my kitchen to get straight onto dinner. On the menu tonight with the BBQ chickens is mashed potato and veges. With the protein already sorts I get a few members of the team onto the peeling of the potatoes, everything is ready to cook in no time. A bit of gravy for the top and we have a good hearty (and healthy) meal.
Tip #3: Have a roster for help with the clean up. Players are quite capable of helping wipe down tables and benches, packing dishwashers and overall clean up. I should have done it sooner, but today decided to put one into place to manage the increasing workload and to be honest we are one big family this week so everyone should chip in.
While the girls chill out, they are told they will be able to go in and watch the boys team play tonight, which they are keen to do. So they load up the bus while I hang at home and do washing, call a parent, and take the car out to fill it up so we don't have to worry tomorrow. The coach said you should put your feet up.......did not really get a chance to do this. But will have a night off later in the week.
Money balancing: Tonight I do a check of the money and the budget. Keeping on track with this is so important. We want to make sure the girls are well catered for, without having concerns later on  in the week.
Another smooth running day. Phew, its all coming together.

Day 3 - GAME DAY!

The day started the same way, with the girls heading out for a walk and enjoying the VERY brisk morning air. The breakfast routine is the same as they help themselves to a variety of toast, crumpets, cereals, fruit and yoghurt.
Tip #1: Make sure that when instructions are given to the players that it is clear and all staff know exactly what has been communicated so everyone is on the same page.
A new challenge we have in this day and age is social media. With kids this age its considered 'normal' to have it and to be able to communicate through it. However this is not necessarily the view of the coaching staff or the state associations that you represent, while you are away. With devices being multipurpose (ie iPods, eReaders etc) its challenging to say 'no phones'. So a clear instruction needs to be given. This morning this happened, but was smoothed over quickly. Phones in flight mode so no distractions, but your favourite pre-game playlist is still accessible.
A bit of Pitch Perfect helped fill the time before the game as our coaches went to scout some other teams. A funny movie is a great way to wind down and take your mind off the nerves.
We board the bus and car in preparation for our drive to the stadium. Uniforms, towels, drink bottles first aid kit all thrown in. There was definitely a sense of nervousness in the air. I tried to keep it light as did the coaches. It was so special to see the girls together in the change rooms before the game. They were ready, but perhaps they didn't realise this.
The game was thrilling, it was truly a pleasure to be on the bench watching them and being there to cheer them on. In a very exciting match up against WA Metro the final result our way 81-62. Lots of fouls which meant managing the players was challenging to say the least. But our bench really stepped up, as did all the girls really. Definitely without question a 'TEAM' effort. And I didn't  spill one drink bottle or give the wrong towel to the wrong play. That is is a good day.
Tip #2: Label your players towels and have them neatly displayed so they can be grabbed quickly. Place them based upon who is on the court so its easy to grab them as they are subbing.
An excited group after the game went to warm down and then the parents came in. It was great to see how they had all responded to their kids and lots of hugs and smiles. A great start to our campaign.
Tip #3: Be clear with the parents what we are trying to accomplish but giving the kids breathing space and ensuring they are aware that they may not have a lot of time to see them after games and rarely before games too. This helps with focus and minimising confusion.
All the excitement and crazy foul count meant that the game ran later than normal so we were on a deadline to return for closing ceremony. So when in doubt, call in the local pizza shop. We called ahead explaining who we were and if we bought a lot would they do a discount :) it worked and we were able to pick up dinner and have it before having to return back to the stadium.
Opening Ceremony. A formality but still special to be a part of. To see the girls walk out and hear the cheers from the parents in the stands. If you didn't get goosebumps, you're dead inside. It's so interesting to hear that some of the greats out of Australia come through this tournament. That's inspiring if nothing else.
I DROVE THE BUS!
Yes, me! It was scary but normally not my job. The coaches needed me to do this as they were scouting again. So we cranked up the music and bopped our way home. We got home safely and happily and the girls got a chance to connect with their family and friends for a short time before heading to bed feeling accomplished and tired.

Day 2 - Photos, shopping and training oh my!

Today started out a lot later than yesterday. We were able to enjoy a lie in but a brisk walk was the best way to start the day. But my goodness its cold here in Torquay.
Tip #1:  Where possible, stay walking distance to a supermarket
The girls enjoyed a relaxed breakfast before hitting the bathrooms to beautify, hair straighten, ribbon up, make up and come out of the bathroom looking amazing. Boy they are a gorgeous bunch. If the tournament was based upon how awesome you looked, we would win for sure! They were getting ready for photo time, where the team photos and social media photos were being taken. It was also the first time that the entire team were kitted out in their uniforms. The smiles on their faces said it all.
Photo time was lots of fun. Called ahead to the stadium to make sure we were headed to the right place and got some directions on exactly where we were to go to at the venue, so to make a smooth transition from the bus to the photo shoot.
We breezed through, but not before being complimented on what a great group they were. No real surprises here. They are, and we can't wait to see those pictures!
A quick lunch break (thanks to Tip #1 was able to get some emergency forgotten supplies) before headed back in for a training session, which was great to be on the court that we will be playing on in 24 hours. The coaches seeing a noticeable difference in the level of nerves. They had shaken that off and were moving around really confidently.
Tip #2: Make friends - its so great to meet all the wonderful people in basketball, in particular the organisers. I am not saying go suck up to  them, but manners, friendliness and smiles can go a long way.
There was finally a bit of down time so half the team decided to head out to some nearby factory outlets and the others headed to the supermarket. It was fun for all.
Tip #3 - Liquid chalk is a great way for teams to personalise their own bus windows. As you can't do anything permanent this can be great alternative.
It was now finally time to decorate the bus. the liquid chalk was shared around the girls and this has become truly a right of passage for the Basketball NSW Country girls. There were inspirational quotes and names plastered everywhere.
"When you're afraid to do something, that's the PERFECT time to do it"
Very happy with their handy work, they barely skip a beat when the parents begin to arrive. We wanted to give the parents the opportunity to see where their daughters were staying and share the experience with us. A few house tours later and the hour was up. So we waved goodbye and started to think about what to do for dinner.
Tonight the assistant coaches will cook. The Head Coach and I have an official meeting to attend with Basketball Australia and the organisers of the tournament.
Home made burgers on the BBQ look to have been a success in my absence. Might get the boys to cook again! It certainly is a great help given that its a pretty crazy time in the kitchen as the manager.
Tip #4:  Manager and Head Coach should travel together in ground transportation.
Our meeting was short and sweet! But what is invaluable is the time in the car where I, as the manager, and the coach can chat about the next part of the day and how we will tackle it. It's also a great time to debrief and have some uninterrupted time to chat through observations and scheduling.

Day 1 - the journey

Whilst our story doesn't really start here, this is the first day of our trek. From the Central Coast to Torquay is quite a journey, meant that the alarm went off at 5.15am. It might have been too early, but I wasn't taking any chances on the peak hour traffic during the commute and making sure I was there to greet my team at the airport.
Tip 1: Give all your team a VERY bright coloured tie to put on their bags. Any inexpensive cotton material will do. It means that all your luggage is identifiable and no matter who is nearest to the luggage conveyor belt they will know that its someones from your group.
Tip 2: Make sure the kids pack a lunch or snacks. Even if your arrival at your destination is scheduled, flight delays, problems at the minibus check in line etc, will mean that  they won't get 'hangry'
After a 5 min delay due to the roof storage lock not functioning, we made it to the airport in plenty of time. This meant that I could speak to the check in about how we could get the group through the quickest. Including getting myself and coach checked in and luggage out so there was one less thing to cart around.
The team starts to arrive, its VERY exciting and everyone looks fabulous. Beautifully the  same. Greeted with many warm hugs and big grins, it was time to make sure that the girls knew it was important to their parents that they allow them all to have a group photo. They groaned through the grins as the parents put on a display that professional paparazzi would be jealous of.
Security check points were a breeze, and then on to pick up some last minute snacks and sustenance before we boarded the plane. A late take off and a slow trip meant for a later arrival time in Melbourne airport.
First stop at the airport - toilets............
Now off to baggage claim, and the luggage located with ease (due to Tip 1). Bus and car hire counter looked like it was going to get hairy, but fortunately after a couple of minutes our reservation was located and we packed in like sardines into a minibus and car.
Tip 3: If you can get a minivan or station wagon for luggage, that would be a great idea as when you are away for 10 days, the bags are big, but the luggage space in minibuses are non existent.
The girls are hungry and decide to have their packed lunch as our delays have meant that we are still an hour from the accommodation and any signs of more food.
The house was a great idea as we quickly allocated rooms and  the girls got their first chance to check out the lay of the land. We were in the middle of the surf culture at Torquay, and walking distance to the beach and shops.
After sorting out hot water and power issues we were finally settled and the girls wasted no time christening the dining table with a game of 'Spoons'. The squeals from the enjoyment would have probably been heard back in NSW.
Finally our first chance to check out our playing surface for the first time as we jumped in the bus and headed to Geelong Arena. Wow what a cool place that is. Greeted by the lovely Julia who was on hand to greet us and make us feel welcome.
Note to self: Booking training sessions around dinner time is not a good idea.
When we got home it was all systems go for dinner. A big Spag Bol was the order of the day and I couldn't cook it fast enough. The girls were awesome though and demonstrated great patience as I worked out cooking in someone else's kitchen. After some burnt pasta and spagetti sauce strewn over one end of the kitchen to the other, dinner is served. Phew, glad that's out of the way and know that all the appliances in the kitchen work.
The girls chill a bit then off to bed, they look so tired, but not many are willing to admit they are.
All ready to sleep and do it all again tomorrow.