Game Time: 2:00pm
Final Score: USA 55- Germany 53
I HAVE NEVER BEEN SO NERVOUS AND UNCOMFORTABLE IN MY LIFE...BUT WE PULLED IT OUT FOR A VICTORY!!!
This is my first Gold Medal at a World Championships and the first time the Canadians haven't won in FOREVER.
I won't say that it was an easy game or our best, but we stuck to it and pulled it out. Becca had an AMAZING game! She had an amazing tournament actually, but she was superb today.
Anyway...we are rushing off to Closing Ceremonies to receive our medals and then hitting the town to celebrate. Don't be surprised if you see pictures of me in fish-nets, high heels, and my jersey at some point tomorrow.
Also I wanted to say...THANK YOU to everyone back home supporting us. We don't win without your support, so please consider this a win for you too. We are so excited to share this with you.
Thanks...and one more time USA!!!!!
OH and...our men won the bronze today!!!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Semi-Final- USA vs. Canada
Game Time: 6:30pm
Final Score- USA 68- Canada 58
USA Advances to Final Against Germany...
Today was another one of those games that you look back on and go...Whheww!! It was again not our best performance, but the Canadians ALWAYS show up to play at these kinds of tournaments. In 2006 we had beaten them in three games prior to World Championships and then lost to them by 8 in the Championship game. Our staff told us that they have had the title of World Champions for the past 24 years...I don't know if that's right, but its been forever since anyone else has won either way.
We were down at the end of the first quarter and up by a couple points at the half. We came out strong in the third quarter and maintained the lead from there. We didn't do a great job of stopping their leading scorer. She had 33 points...that just won't do. Becca and Carlee were our big scorers of the day. They had a great shooting game.
I played alright...I feel like I could have played better (but I kind of always feel that way). I am definitely looking forward to a day off tomorrow because my shoulder is breaking down and quickly. I had to tape and un-tape throughout the game today and I was fouled hard at the end of the game, which didn't help.
I've iced it a couple of times tonight and I have my Tylenol and Ibuprofen regimen going. Oh well...one more game and that's what counts.
We will play the Germans on Saturday at 1:30pm. They beat Australia earlier today, so Australia and Canada will play for third and fourth.
Our men played today...unfortunately they lost to Australia in a close match. We led for most of the game, but Australia pulled it out in the end. Australia will play France Saturday for the title and the USA will play Italy for third. Our men beat Italy by 40 in pool play so we are hoping for a repeat performance.
Well...I don't know that I have much more of an update. We have practice and an easy day tomorrow to prepare for Saturday. It's about to get exciting.
Thanks for following!!
Final Score- USA 68- Canada 58
USA Advances to Final Against Germany...
Today was another one of those games that you look back on and go...Whheww!! It was again not our best performance, but the Canadians ALWAYS show up to play at these kinds of tournaments. In 2006 we had beaten them in three games prior to World Championships and then lost to them by 8 in the Championship game. Our staff told us that they have had the title of World Champions for the past 24 years...I don't know if that's right, but its been forever since anyone else has won either way.
We were down at the end of the first quarter and up by a couple points at the half. We came out strong in the third quarter and maintained the lead from there. We didn't do a great job of stopping their leading scorer. She had 33 points...that just won't do. Becca and Carlee were our big scorers of the day. They had a great shooting game.
I played alright...I feel like I could have played better (but I kind of always feel that way). I am definitely looking forward to a day off tomorrow because my shoulder is breaking down and quickly. I had to tape and un-tape throughout the game today and I was fouled hard at the end of the game, which didn't help.
I've iced it a couple of times tonight and I have my Tylenol and Ibuprofen regimen going. Oh well...one more game and that's what counts.
We will play the Germans on Saturday at 1:30pm. They beat Australia earlier today, so Australia and Canada will play for third and fourth.
Our men played today...unfortunately they lost to Australia in a close match. We led for most of the game, but Australia pulled it out in the end. Australia will play France Saturday for the title and the USA will play Italy for third. Our men beat Italy by 40 in pool play so we are hoping for a repeat performance.
Well...I don't know that I have much more of an update. We have practice and an easy day tomorrow to prepare for Saturday. It's about to get exciting.
Thanks for following!!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Quarter Finals- USA vs. Great Britain
Game Time- 2:00pm
Final Score- USA 53- Great Britain 37
USA Advances to the Semi-Final!!!
YAY...we are moving onto the next round and I would love to say that it was an easy one, but it was far from. Today we battled injuries, rough calls, a less than ideal shooting percentage, and a crowd that favored the opposing team. We battled for sure in this game, leading by about 5 at the half and we didn't really pull ahead until the end of the third quarter, beginning of the fourth.
We were ahead the whole game, but still we struggled to get into the USA rhythm that we are accustomed to. We still advance and play tomorrow against Canada, who won their game against Japan. The Germans also beat the Netherlands today. They will play the Australians, who beat China, tomorrow.
Overall, the day was a success for the United States. Our Men played Turkey and won handily. However, the day in general was a day of upsets on the Men's side. The Great Britain Men lost to France, in one of the greatest upsets of the tournament. Aside from being the at home favorite, they could have easily been one of the tournament favorites. Similarly, the Canadian men lost to Italy. The Canadian Men won World Championships in 2006. I think most people expected the final four to be Canada, Australia, Great Britain, and the United States. Now our men will meet the Aussies tomorrow in what could be the best game of the tournament on the Men's side.
We don't really know our schedule yet, but we play at either 2pm or 6:30pm. I think our men play at around 4:30, but I make no promises. Hopefully we find out tonight.
We are back at the hotel now. Time for rest and treatments. Natalie and I are enjoying an episode of Criminal Minds and waiting to get our instructions or schedule.
I had dinner with my family tonight. We went to this Thai restaurant that we walk past everyday. I always stare in the windows admiring the ambiance and smile at the lovely smell of food that radiates through the door. Finally I got to walk in and enjoy some Pad Thai and enjoy the fabulous cuisine. I was soooo excited to eat there. My family enjoyed what should have been a 10 course meal, but oh well...that's the Castle way.
Well...that was my day in a nut shell. I am off to enjoy the beautiful men of Criminal Minds. Hope all is well at home. Miss you all!! More to come tomorrow!
Final Score- USA 53- Great Britain 37
USA Advances to the Semi-Final!!!
YAY...we are moving onto the next round and I would love to say that it was an easy one, but it was far from. Today we battled injuries, rough calls, a less than ideal shooting percentage, and a crowd that favored the opposing team. We battled for sure in this game, leading by about 5 at the half and we didn't really pull ahead until the end of the third quarter, beginning of the fourth.
We were ahead the whole game, but still we struggled to get into the USA rhythm that we are accustomed to. We still advance and play tomorrow against Canada, who won their game against Japan. The Germans also beat the Netherlands today. They will play the Australians, who beat China, tomorrow.
Overall, the day was a success for the United States. Our Men played Turkey and won handily. However, the day in general was a day of upsets on the Men's side. The Great Britain Men lost to France, in one of the greatest upsets of the tournament. Aside from being the at home favorite, they could have easily been one of the tournament favorites. Similarly, the Canadian men lost to Italy. The Canadian Men won World Championships in 2006. I think most people expected the final four to be Canada, Australia, Great Britain, and the United States. Now our men will meet the Aussies tomorrow in what could be the best game of the tournament on the Men's side.
We don't really know our schedule yet, but we play at either 2pm or 6:30pm. I think our men play at around 4:30, but I make no promises. Hopefully we find out tonight.
We are back at the hotel now. Time for rest and treatments. Natalie and I are enjoying an episode of Criminal Minds and waiting to get our instructions or schedule.
I had dinner with my family tonight. We went to this Thai restaurant that we walk past everyday. I always stare in the windows admiring the ambiance and smile at the lovely smell of food that radiates through the door. Finally I got to walk in and enjoy some Pad Thai and enjoy the fabulous cuisine. I was soooo excited to eat there. My family enjoyed what should have been a 10 course meal, but oh well...that's the Castle way.
Well...that was my day in a nut shell. I am off to enjoy the beautiful men of Criminal Minds. Hope all is well at home. Miss you all!! More to come tomorrow!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Germany vs. USA (Game 4)
Game Time: 9:30am
Final Score: Germany 53- USA 65
This was the final chapter of pool play and a great ending for us. We started out strong and kept our lead throughout. At the half the score was 29-20 us. A great start. Unfortunately, the third quarter was not great for us. We let Germany come within two.
The Germans are strong and big and were coming after us like mad women. Christina has a black eye, nearly had her arm torn off, and I swear at one point there were Germans flying at us from every angle. It was a very physical game overall...we held our own and weren't giving in. Steph fouled out and I played the final minute with 4...ugh!!!
Here's what I looked like after the game...
Final Score: Germany 53- USA 65
This was the final chapter of pool play and a great ending for us. We started out strong and kept our lead throughout. At the half the score was 29-20 us. A great start. Unfortunately, the third quarter was not great for us. We let Germany come within two.
The Germans are strong and big and were coming after us like mad women. Christina has a black eye, nearly had her arm torn off, and I swear at one point there were Germans flying at us from every angle. It was a very physical game overall...we held our own and weren't giving in. Steph fouled out and I played the final minute with 4...ugh!!!
Here's what I looked like after the game...
But we pulled it out and our 4th quarter was great! In the end Chris had 24 points, Becca had 16, and I had 8...yay!!! It was a great showing for all of us, but I tell you what Wisconsin is where it's at (Chris and Becca are both from Wisconsin....so you know??)
Our defense was solid and our offense was on...so now onto the Crossover...and here's how it plays out:
USA (1) vs. Great Britain (4)
Germany (2) vs. Netherlands (3)
Australia (1) vs. China (4)
Canada (2) vs. Japan (3)
I have NO idea what the schedule is, but we play at some point on the 14th. We have tomorrow off...well minus practice and probably video. I think we might go on a boat tour on the canal and I am probably going to try for the mall (shocking...I know).
My brothers got here today...and I am thrilled!! I even managed to get a family photo in today...craziness.
The team is headed to a Robert Cray concert tonight (I think that's how you spell his name) or maybe a movie, but you never know!
Saturday, July 10, 2010
USA vs. China (Game 3)
Game Time: 4:30pm
Final Score: USA 81- China 40
What a win??!!! Today was a great day for us. We were on fire in the first half. We scored 51 points in the first half and gave up 17 points. We were clicking really well. We shot about 52% and had a number of forced turnovers and steals.
I had a good game, but had to ice down at the half. My shoulder has been holding up, so as a preventative measure we decided to sit me in the second half and ice me down. Unfortunately, I spent most of the second half lying face down behind the bench, so I didn't even see it. Although from what I heard it was still a strong half.
Everyone played and contributed again...in fact at one point we only had 8.5 points on the floor (2- 1s, 2- 1.5s, and a 3.5).
Anyway, it was a good day for us and we definitely improved. We have tomorrow morning off and practice tomorrow night, as we get ready to face Germany on Monday.
My mom got here today and I was so excited to see her. My dad gets here tomorrow and my brothers on Monday...it's going to be great to have them here. I might take my mom shopping tomorrow, but we shall see...I need to rest my shoulders and let my body rest.
Well...it's really late here. It took me all day to get our terrible internet connection to work. Hope all is well at home!
Final Score: USA 81- China 40
What a win??!!! Today was a great day for us. We were on fire in the first half. We scored 51 points in the first half and gave up 17 points. We were clicking really well. We shot about 52% and had a number of forced turnovers and steals.
I had a good game, but had to ice down at the half. My shoulder has been holding up, so as a preventative measure we decided to sit me in the second half and ice me down. Unfortunately, I spent most of the second half lying face down behind the bench, so I didn't even see it. Although from what I heard it was still a strong half.
Everyone played and contributed again...in fact at one point we only had 8.5 points on the floor (2- 1s, 2- 1.5s, and a 3.5).
Anyway, it was a good day for us and we definitely improved. We have tomorrow morning off and practice tomorrow night, as we get ready to face Germany on Monday.
My mom got here today and I was so excited to see her. My dad gets here tomorrow and my brothers on Monday...it's going to be great to have them here. I might take my mom shopping tomorrow, but we shall see...I need to rest my shoulders and let my body rest.
Well...it's really late here. It took me all day to get our terrible internet connection to work. Hope all is well at home!
STATS and Other Stuff
So...Natalie and I were just reviewing stats...and I led the team in steals yesterday with 4...don't think that has ever happened!! Nat also led the team in scoring with 14...
The point of this post is actually to let you know that you can get stats, box scores, shooting charts, and other information online at:
http://www.gbwba.org.uk/gbwba/index.cfm/wwbc2010/schedule
(If this link doesn't work go to the homepage http://www.gwba.org.uk/ and click on the information for World Championships and then fixtures and results)
You can get information on every game of the tournament!!!
The point of this post is actually to let you know that you can get stats, box scores, shooting charts, and other information online at:
http://www.gbwba.org.uk/gbwba/index.cfm/wwbc2010/schedule
(If this link doesn't work go to the homepage http://www.gwba.org.uk/ and click on the information for World Championships and then fixtures and results)
You can get information on every game of the tournament!!!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Brazil vs. USA (Game 2)
Game Time: 11:45am
Final Score: Brazil 24- USA 66
We had a good start today. We started Natalie with the Scooby-Twos (as Coach calls us) or in other words Nat, Steph, Christina, Becca, and me. We finally clicked like we were suppoed to and like we want to. In fact the entire team found a momentum and chemistry that worked for everyone.
We held Brazil to 8 points in the first half and were feeling great throughout the game. Almost everyone took a shot and/or scored, which is great to see. Caitlin, the newest and youngest member of our team took a couple of big shots. Unfortunately, they didn't fall, but it was great to see her have that kind of confidence and determination.
Overall, everyone was pleased and our defense was solid. After our game, the USA men played Poland and won handily. It was a good day for both teams.
We had practice tonight and are on our way to dinner in a few. Tomorrow we have a shoot around in the morning and we play China tomorrow night.
A few other results (on the womens side) for the day:
Canada pulled out a win against the Netherlands by 4.
Germany beat China by about 40 or so.
Australia and Great Britain had the day off.
Final Score: Brazil 24- USA 66
We had a good start today. We started Natalie with the Scooby-Twos (as Coach calls us) or in other words Nat, Steph, Christina, Becca, and me. We finally clicked like we were suppoed to and like we want to. In fact the entire team found a momentum and chemistry that worked for everyone.
We held Brazil to 8 points in the first half and were feeling great throughout the game. Almost everyone took a shot and/or scored, which is great to see. Caitlin, the newest and youngest member of our team took a couple of big shots. Unfortunately, they didn't fall, but it was great to see her have that kind of confidence and determination.
Overall, everyone was pleased and our defense was solid. After our game, the USA men played Poland and won handily. It was a good day for both teams.
We had practice tonight and are on our way to dinner in a few. Tomorrow we have a shoot around in the morning and we play China tomorrow night.
A few other results (on the womens side) for the day:
Canada pulled out a win against the Netherlands by 4.
Germany beat China by about 40 or so.
Australia and Great Britain had the day off.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
USA vs. Japan (Game 1)
Game Time: 2:15pm
Final Score: USA 56- Japan 35
I wouldn't exactly say that the game went as we had hoped, but no one can complain about a win. We struggled a bit with adapting to ticky-tack fouls and some very interesting calls by the referees. That being said our defense was solid and we had some moments of greatness.
I am very happy with the way we played overall. I think we improved, while also leaving room for improvement. I shot 100% today...3 for 3...yeah buddy!! I actually played pretty well today. We are adjusting my role on defense, but I like it.
My shoulder held up...so for that I say Woo-Hoo!!
Thanks for all the support at home!! We are off to watch our men play against South Korea tonight.
Final Score: USA 56- Japan 35
I wouldn't exactly say that the game went as we had hoped, but no one can complain about a win. We struggled a bit with adapting to ticky-tack fouls and some very interesting calls by the referees. That being said our defense was solid and we had some moments of greatness.
I am very happy with the way we played overall. I think we improved, while also leaving room for improvement. I shot 100% today...3 for 3...yeah buddy!! I actually played pretty well today. We are adjusting my role on defense, but I like it.
My shoulder held up...so for that I say Woo-Hoo!!
Thanks for all the support at home!! We are off to watch our men play against South Korea tonight.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Game Schedule
USA POOL PLAY GAME SCHEDULE
USA vs. Japan- Thursday July 8- 2:15pm (Court 2)
Brazil vs. USA- Friday July 9- 11:45am (Court 1)
USA vs. China- Saturday July 10- 4:30pm (Court 2)
Germany vs. USA- Sunday July 11- 9:30am (Court 1)
You can get more information and possibly live streaming of our games at:
More Information about Wheelchair Basketball can be found at:
Opening Ceremonies
Opening Ceremonies were today. It was like a crazy opening act for "So You Think You Can Dance." There was ballroom, contemporary/interpretive, and hip-hop dancing. The costumes were hard to describe...but interesting is a good way of explaining them. The ceremony was short, sweet, and to the point, which was great because with 300 athletes on the floor and us in heavy track suits I was sweating profusely!
Games started tonight, with the GB women vs. the Netherlands, and the GB men vs. South Korea. The Netherlands pulled out a win by one against GB and I quite honestly don't know the score of the men's game because we had practice.
Practice went smoothly, but we are definitely ready for tomorrow and GAME 1!!
Games started tonight, with the GB women vs. the Netherlands, and the GB men vs. South Korea. The Netherlands pulled out a win by one against GB and I quite honestly don't know the score of the men's game because we had practice.
Practice went smoothly, but we are definitely ready for tomorrow and GAME 1!!
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