MSU TOURNEY
Despite weather that was inconducive to outdoor water polo, the interaction between players, parents, and fans made the event quite enjoyable. A huge thanks to those parents that attended and helped meet our nutritional requirements so akin to our success. Please feel free to critique our play this weekend; the view from the stands often offers much more insight into our lapses than noticeable from the pool. The video provided will certainly help give us this view, but your thoughts are always appreciated. Some topics I noticed are listed for your consideration: 1) Counterattack passing 2) Counterattack defense 3) Shot Selection 4) Legs

Since You Asked....
First, I think you guys are better than you think. There were moments of brilliance and athleticism. If you want it, you can get back to Nationals. You asked for improvement opportunities so I won't spend time on the positives, but there were many. One of the hallmarks of the UM team the past few years has been better conditioning. In those physical games, like United, UM were able to outswim them in the second half. Most of the teams this past weekend were able to swim with us. If you guys want to get to Nationals - you need to get in better shape. Passing can be improved - avoid those weak 'hand-offs' and low cross-pool passes. Practice shots pertinent to counter-attacks. If you have to slow down and pick the ball up over your head, the defender is going to catch up. At times shots were too quick. Take a second to pump or look off the goalie. Some of the players looked a little like 'deer in the headlights' when the game got physical and/or refs didn't blow the whistle. You can't assume a foul will be called. Keep playing - in part this will help get the calls. Good refs don't reward passivve play. (and some are just bad refs) One for the coaches - I know this past weekend was a learning opportunity, but subbing in 4 or more players at once disrupts continuity (unless skill level is consistent across 12 players). I'd suggest rotating in 1-2 at a time so people stay fresh, but you also maintain some continuity. On the other hand it was good that so many players had so much playing time. It will help later. There were some basic defensive breakdowns that will be helped with practice and communication. One obvious one, especially for the B team - you don't have to let the opponent set up camp at 2M in a 6-on-5. Make them work for that spot. I thank the team for several hours of enjoyment. Best value entertainment I can find! Greg p.s. Dan - go back to the skip shot on the 5M penalty!