Dec. 4, 2009
Thankful for family, friends, and HOYA hoops…
During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I always try to take a moment to reflect on the past year and give thanks to all that is important to me. I am grateful for my loving and supportive family, wonderful friends, my health, and of course, HOYA basketball. I am even more appreciative that after the lackluster finish of the 2009 season, our Hoyas have showed a vast improvement by starting off with 5 - 0 record.
It's not that the Hoyas are undefeated to this point, however, it is the constant improvement they show each game to make strides and prepare themselves for the Jimmy V and John Wooden Classics along with the ever challenging Big East schedule.
There are many positives at this point; an obvious sense of better team chemistry on the court, Hollis Thompson being named Big East Rookie of the Week… however, there is one individual in particular who has already exceeded my expectations and will play a huge role in defining the 2009-2010 season- Julian Vaughn.
Julian has been a tremendous asset to the squad thus far. His dedication to offseason workouts has noticeably helped him become more familiar with JTIII's system, enhanced his athletic ability, and top evident improvement, CONFIDENCE on the court. He has provided valuable minutes and stats, improving in the scoring, rebounds and assist categories each game. I do not know what specifically what he did this offseason to improve his game, but this I AM THANKFUL!
American University, who challenged the Hoyas early last season, lost a number of valuable seniors due to graduation and has struggled so far this year. With a 1-7 record, AU is a very young team with no seniors and 4 juniors. No team should ever be overlooked, however, this game will be another preparation match for the Hoyas, taking the strides to get to that next level, putting Hoya basketball back on the pedestal it should be.
Slated for a 4 p.m. start at the Verizon Center this Saturday, look for the Hoyas to stay focused and dominate the Eagles.
During these times, especially the holidays, it is easy to dwell on what we don't have. It is important to take advantage of all the good in our lives, be appreciative and give thanks. "Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out." -- John Wooden
Happy Holidays!
Leslie A. Tyburski, MSB 2006
Hoya Hoop Club Board of Directors
