"We know that suffering creates endurance, endurance creates character and character creates confidence" -- Romans 5:3

Wednesday's practice was one of the longest of the year, but much was accomplished. "The players were very attentive. They stayed with it and were again eager to learn," said Illini Head Coach Theresa Grentz.

The day was used to review and introduce various offenses and defenses. Overall the team reviewed six in-bounds plays and added four more and finished five new "calls" for the motion offense. Coach Grentz also introduced several two-man and three-man options.

In addition to the offenses, Coach Grentz also introduced the zone defense and worked on half-court traps. "These are long, tedious, yet neccessary days," Grentz added. "I appreciated their attentiveness."

Coach made a conscious effort to teach the theory and idea behind each offensive and defensive play, teaching them how to deviate off of the set plays. "We don't have rules, we have concepts. I would much rather have an offense that works freely in groups of twos and threes."

Thursday's practice will be much more challenging and the tempo wll be quickened

Illinois players will be signing autographs and helping distribute posters and schedule cards Saturday morning at the Hometown Heroes Tent from approximately 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the Illini football game. The team will host the Houston Jaguars team in an exhibition game Saturday night at 7 p.m. in the Assembly Hall. Tickets can be purchased at the Assembly Hall Box Office or by calling 217/333-3470.

Illini fans, begin thinking about how you can help fill the hall for the Illini's dual with top-ranked UConn on Dec. 10. The Illini women's basketball team is hoping that teams and groups from around the state of Illinois will join them at the Hall to show their support for the state school in this game.

Here's your chance to chat live with Head CoachTheresa Grentz prior to the Illini's trip to Maui . Simply visit www.womensmaui.com on Thursday, Nov. 16 as the Coach helps hype the Illini's appearance in the Women's Maui Invitational. Coach will answer questions beginning at 7 p.m. CST on that day.

Friday's practice is 3-5:30 p.m.