Colorado University Athletics
SULLIVAN'S SPIKES: LETS GET READY TO PLAY
Welcome to Sullivan's Spikes!
Over the next few weeks U.S. Olympian Erik Sullivan, the newest
member of the Colorado volleyball coaching staff, will give an
insiders perspective on Team USA's quest for a gold medal in mens'
volleyball in Athens. An eight-year veteran of the US
National Team, Sullivan is competing with Team USA in his second
Olympic games.
August 15, 2004
The last two days have been quite
busy. It began with the opening ceremonies. What an
adventure! For the athletes it began around 5:30, with all
the American athletes gearing up with their parade uniforms
and hanging out in the American part of the village. It was a
blast to get to meet all the different athletes and take pictures
with everyone. After a little while we climed on to the buses
and proceeded to the staging arena where we would wait until we
marched. The veterans of the team knew enough to bring some
cards so we could pass the three hours of waiting for our turn
to enter the stadium. It's always a thrill to march in to
packed stadium cheering for you. Once we were inside, we
watched the final portion of the ceremonies and the lighting of the
torch. What a great experience. Another couple of hours
to get home and then some much needed sleep. All in all about
eight hours for the athletes.
The next morning we began the final preparations for our first
match against Italy. Now its really time to focus on our game
plan and hopefully set a good tone for the rest of the tournament.
We just returned from our morning practice of serving and
passing, had some lunch, and now, hopefully, grab a little nap
before play tonight at 9:30.