Austin Alecxih’s Diary #3 - Half Season Reflection

Austin Alecxih’s Diary #3 - Half Season Reflection
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[FONT=Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, Sans-Serif]By Austin Alecxih (Player Profile)

January 20th, 2009 — With nearly half of the season under my belt, I reflect from a team standpoint and realize that things could not have gone much better than they have to this point. We have fought and grinded our way through close, physical games. We have battled injuries, fatigue, and even time zone changes. And most importantly, we pulled together and showed that we were a true team when we needed to be the most.

The sum of all this has led us to a 19-0 record and a number two national ranking. This of course was in no way easily accomplished. After our narrow escape against Life Center, we had to be careful not to look ahead to the shootout at Marshall County because there were still games to play before the contests there. We were able to maintain our focus and reel off three more wins with an average margin of victory of around 20 points. It was then time to turn our concentration to the next two games which would be played in Kentucky.

Everyone, including me, was very excited to show our true potential against nationally recognized teams Duncanville and Chicago Simeon. Upon arrival to the host school, Marshall County, we were swarmed by fans eager for our autographs. It was very thrilling to see first hand the type of attention Oak Hill receives nationwide. It was all business, however, when we took the court.

Duncanville seemed ready for a battle early in the game. They stayed with us throughout the first half. But as Coach Smith reminded us at halftime, if we play our game and work hard, there is no one who can play with us. His inspirational words struck home and we headed back to the hotel that night with a 14 point victory over a team ranked #1 in the pre-season polls. Chicago Simeon played us very tough, but in spite of their scrappiness, we left KY with a 6 point victory and our winning streak in tact.

Following the games in KY we headed to NC where we defeated local powerhouse North Guilford HS. A plane ride later, we found ourselves on the freezing campus of Marquette University facing off against Whitney Young. They were talented, but a 2nd half explosion from us sent them back to Chicago disappointed. It was time to come back home and face Ridgeview from SC. We came out very strong in front of our supportive crowd and student body and ended up winning the game by almost 50 points.

Following this victory everyone hit the books in preparation for our final exams. I managed to survive mid-terms in CC Calulus, CC English and Psych. Now with our work well in hand the time had come for us to leave the snowy mountain landscape of VA and replace it with the warm sun, palm trees and sandy beaches of Hawaii. I can’t describe the anticipation and excitement I felt as I packed my bags for what promised to be an amazing trip. I had always wanted to got to Hawaii but had never had the opportunity. Here was my chance, and I was extremely eager to get there, and most importantly, win all our games.

One thing that I was not prepared for, however, was the 10 1/2 hour flight that it would take just to get there from the east coast. I persevered for many uncomfortable hours crammed in my seat on the plane before we finally glimpsed the beaches of Waikiki. Once we landed, we took a bus to our hotel. I looked in every direction at the architecture and buildings of Honolulu, as well as the looming mountains and volcano that overlook the city. It was beautiful.
We wasted no time in showing that our intentions were to win this tournament as we came out with sizable victories our first 2 games. Both of these were against local teams who had the loyalty of the crowd. Our next game proved to be a very physical battle against Leflore from Mobil, Alabama. Our toughness and determination proved to be just enough and we were able to come out with a 2 point win.

Finally, the championship game against Montross Christian turned out to be a classic. It was a back and forth battle that could not be decided in regulation, but instead took 2 overtimes to decide a victor. It took a lot of guts and some very big shots, but in the end we once again showed our quality and were victorious by 12 points.

Several more sunshine filled days and another lengthy plan ride later, I found myself at home in Columbia, PA. A perfect Christmas and relaxing break at home proved to be just what I needed. I am now once again back at school, rejuvinated and thoroughly ready to continue the season and to continue to improve as a player. Once again, thanks to everyone at home who supports me. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

November 17th, 2009 — I’ve been at Oak Hill over 2 months now. I must admit that it seems like yesterday I was moving by belongings into Fletcher Hall. The time has absolutely flown by, and as I reflect on the past months, I remind myself to enjoy every day of this wonderful opportunity that I’ve been blessed with.
As a result of hard work, disciplined practices, talent, and camaraderie, we are now 8-0. We opened up against Covenant Christian from Georgia. I recall the rush of nervous excitement that I felt as I warmed up in from of my classmates and members of the community. Everything settled down once we took the floor and we came out with a 20+ win.

A hostile and enthusiastic crowd awaited us as we traveled to Winston-Salem Prep in NC for our 2nd contest. We got off to a slow start but pushed on and played hard throughout the game. Coach Smith has told us that if we keep playing our game and putting pressure on the opponents, other teams will eventually crack. This was the case and we improved our record to 2-0.

We had a high level of confidence and took wins over Queen City Prep, Patterson School, and Veritas Christian all from NC, and Mountain State Academy, WV. Most recently we defeated Gaston Day School in NC and had a victory and battle against Life Christian Academy out of NJ. A strong defensive effort, as well as poise and focus under pressure, allowed us to escape with a one point win in a nail biter. If we maintain our level of play and focus, I have no doubt that we can keep this rolling and continue winning.

We’ve covered some pretty significant mileage so far. The van rides have been a great opportunity to get closer with my teammates. We find ways to entertain ourselves and it makes for a lot of good laughs. We’re a very close team, and I know that we have the ability to accomplish great things this year. I personally plan on working as hard as possible and learning as much as I can from my coaches. I’ve seen massive improvements in my game, and I hope to continue to take advantage of this opportunity.

I appreciate all of those who support me. Special thanks to my bros, Mom & Dad, Kristen, Mrs. S., and Big D.
Diary #1 - A Dream Now Reality

October 20th, 2008 — Several years ago the thought of playing basketball for Oak Hill was only a dream. But now that I’ve been here for over a month and a half, I am happy to say it is very much a reality.

The basketball here has really made the time fly. We began by playing pick up to get in shape & get a feel for one anothers games, and to get comfortable with each other. Early on the much faster pace and style was difficult for me. Now however, I feel very comfortable and enjoy playing with everyone on our team.

We’ve had official practice for 2 weeks now, and although they are tough, they are also very productive. I really like playing for Coach Smith. He is without a doubt a players coach. He really likes to get out and run and put a lot of points on the board - which is what every player wants to do.

We had a scrimmage against Patterson last week and we played very well as a team. I’m excited for our scrimmage comin up against Hargrave. And then we’ll start our regular season soon.

The biggest adjustment for me since coming to the Hill has been the dorm life. In our small team dorm there are 13 guys. It was kind of a shock at first but now I recognize it as one of the greatest parts of being here. Glenn & Tiny are hysterical, and I really enjoy talking to Mo Mo and having everyone on the team as friends. It is a very close family atmosphere, and overall, the experience thus far has been great.

I want to give a special thanks to my family and close friends at home who have supported me. More to come later
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