The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
Blazer Blogs: Donnie Marsh
11/16/2011 12:00:00 AM | General
There is nothing quite like the start of a new season and here we are! It's hard to believe that eight (8) months have passed since we last stepped onto the rectangle. I have really missed it and can't wait to get after it tonight against a very good, very talented Creighton team. I can tell you our guys are ready to go against someone other than each other. That can get a little stale. But now it's time for some guys to step into new roles and for us to see if we can develop a group of players into a cohesive unit, a team if you will, that will "Bring the Fight" every night for forty minutes or longer if that's what it takes. That doesn't automatically happen. Guys who have never been leaders have to take charge; guys who haven't been starters have to step into starter's roles and play starter minutes; guys who have never played a college game have to grow up quickly and embrace the demands that come along with playing at a high level; guys who played minor roles in the past have to now accept the challenge of expanded expectations and be prepared to deliver when their numbers are called; and coaches have to find a way to mix all of that together and put a group on the floor that will compete from tip to buzzer. This has a chance to be a special year in its own right. We know it's never easy. But the attitude and work ethic of this group has been terrific. They know that "they" haven't accomplished anything at this point. The past is just that, the past. The returning guys like to flash their jewelry, but they're anxious to chase some more; and the new guys want some of it for themselves. We know the amount of work that has to be put in to have a shot at that and our guys have given us every indication that they are willing to put in whatever it takes to make this a special year. I say this all the time and it is still very true, "we need YOU to help make this all happen". It starts tonight. Creighton has played two games in front of their home crowd and it made a difference for them. What they haven't experienced is what it is like for a visiting team to come into Bartow Arena. They need to hear and feel what Butler & Cincinnati felt a couple of years ago. I remember Brad Stevens from Butler commenting on the atmosphere and how tough that made things for his team. I know how much energy and confidence it gave our guys. That's what it needs to be like in the arena tonight. Will you be there? I sure hope so. If you're like me you can't wait to get to it tonight. I still have the taste of the last time we played in my mouth. And no amount of mouthwash, toothpaste, gun or mints can get it out. The only way is to get back in there tonight and start the chase all over again. I hope you'll come along for the ride.
GO BLAZERS!!!
"BRING THE FIGHT!!!"
