Yesterday I was able to go the ISTOK office and home of operations. They are a local company that gifted the team last year with team jackets and snow bibs. Not sure why it took me so long to think of it, but seeing has how this winter has been much colder than last, I am in dire need of some new threads…sub-zero that is. They use Siberian Goose-Down and pack the jacket as thick or thin as you like. They took all my measurements and I had a great selection to choose from. It was an awesome experience and they are currently making 2 jackets (with my logo embroidered on the inside!!) and a comforter for the house. Can’t wait to pick them up this week, thanks again ISTOK!
Had a great time catching up with Kevin, Sean, Sarah and Val. They have recently beaten then #1 Iskra and Dinamo Moscow and have taken sole possession of the lead in the league standings. Nice work boys!
Earlier this month I was inducted into the Loyola Marymount Hall of Fame. It was a great athletic class with fellow Olympian Sarah Noriega and old friend Ryan Eisberg (Water Polo). I was really disappointed to not be able to attend being on the other end of the planet. I heard from lots fellow Alumni and it really showed breadth of the community of what was LMU Men’s Volleyball. Long time friend, volleyball alumni and creative director of my website Lindsey Breeden went in my stead and accepted on my behalf. Thanks for representing Lindsey and for those of you that couldn’t make it, here is a transscript of what was said. I hope that LMU can reopen the Men’s Volleyball Program one day!
My name is Lindsey Breeden and I am a former student-athlete and teammate of Reid’s here at LMU. Reid has asked me to speak on his behalf today as he is busy earning a living half-way around the world in Siberia. Read the rest of this entry »
Ah…the satisfaction of high speed internet, a full belly after a meal and clean clothes! We just got back into Novosibirsk tonight and not a moment too soon. We have been on the road for about 10 days and went 1 and 1. Last night was a real bummer as we had our chances but couldn’t capitalize against Loko Belogord (where US Team Member Richie Lambourne plays). 25-21, 23-25, 17-25, 24-26. It didn’t help that we got hosed on a handful of calls down the stretch but even with what is becoming a ridiculous, but consistent, home court officiating advantage, we still had our chances. Its time to get some rest but check back soon as I was able to get some more footage on the road.
Our trip to Belogord this week left much to be desired. Due to the economic crisis, we used another form of transportation. Our day started with a 3.5 hour flight to Moscow, a 4 hour layover and then a 10.5 hour train ride. The weirdest part of the train is that it travels no faster than 60 Kilometers per hour!!!??? Marathon runners would have made it to Belogord faster than us when you factor in the stops! Well, hopefully by spending 800 billion we can somehow stimulate the world economy…go back to buying houses we can’t afford and leveraging our assets to live above our real means. If it all works out, maybe then, we can get our charters back but for now, its important to have all batteries charged b/c its gonna be a long ride!
Its that time of the year to begin building teams and placing players for the next season. With the financial crisis hitting hard, the volleyball community is seeing no exception to fallout. Luca Novi made a trip to Russia this week to connect with his players and meet with the Volleyball Federation here in Russia regarding the upcoming season. Luca is the best at what he does and knows what he is talking about when he encourages young players to be “great at something”. Find a specialty skill and become and expert and from there, branch out and improve all the other skills. Great feedback Luca, thanks!
The fans in Novo are #1. This post is dedicated to you guys and all of your support. Each week, more and more of you from Russia are checking in here on the site so I wanted to acknowledge that. It is truly thrilling to play home matches and feel and hear the support from you all. Thanks for all of your support and looking forward to our next home match in a few weeks. Das Vendana!
After some weather delays, the guys made it in to Novo and we were able to catch a good Siberian/Mexican meal together. Here are some after dinner thoughts…and to purchase Lloy’s Book, click here.
