2015 Net News - Feb. 19
2/19/2015 12:00:00 AM | Men's Tennis
Jack Frost is doing his best to keep the majority of the country cold with the exception of south Florida and Southern California. Really makes you grateful for our beautiful Roberta Alison Baumgardner Indoor Tennis Facility. Regardless of the temps, we have had a solid two weeks of practice both outside and inside since returning home from Oklahoma with a rare free weekend sandwiched in between to recharge, rest and relax.
Going outside was a minor adjustment because of the obvious elements like wind, different ball bounces and sun. So great to put sunblock back on as well as a hat and sunglasses.
I have been asked several times what the goal has been over the past two weeks. Simply put the goal hasn't changed from one day or one week to the next. We must compete hard and keep improving. We can never be satisfied or feel like we've made it because there will always be other teams trying to beat us. As Lou Holtz once said, "Ability is what you are capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it."
Next up for the Tide is the Blue Gray National Tennis Classic in Montgomery, Alabama. Just a short two hour ride from campus, the Blue Gray enters its 66th year. What started in 1949 as an individual tournament transformed into a highly competitive, passionate and exciting team tournament in 1983. The tournament features eight men's and eight women's programs battling in a three-day knock'em out, drag'em down event.
The men's field this year includes Alabama, Auburn, Mississippi State, South Florida, Clemson, Texas Tech, Boise State and Princeton. Bama will face the Tigers of Clemson in the opening round on Friday at 2 p.m. Click here to view the draw.
There is plenty of information about the tournament, it's history, interesting stories on players and so much more at bluegraytennis.com.
The favorite part of the event from my perspective is the hospitality. Four homes will house our players and provide plenty of food and support to go along with comfortable and fun lodging accommodations. We've been in touch with these families since leaving Montgomery a year ago and have seen them throughout the year.
Wayne Bryan, father of legendary doubles team of Mike and Bob Bryan, is the emcee for the kickoff banquet. He will also assist with Saturday's kids clinic and enjoy some of the best catered lunches we've ever had at any tournament.
So there's a lot to look forward to and we've got a great attitude heading into this weekend's action. Hayes Brewer has had the black shirt all week and the guys have been getting after it. We look forward to seeing you in Montgomery over the weekend and together celebrating more great tennis from Bama.
Roll Tide,
George
Players Mentioned
