May 24, 2011

Dallas, Texas - Three Illinois players -- outside hitters Michelle Bartsch and Colleen Ward and libero Jennifer Bonilla are headed to Dallas this week to participate in the USA Volleyball A2 program. Read Michelle's blog throughout the week.

With all three of us in the air on the way to Dallas we are probably feeling some of the same emotions. We have all been involved in the USA programs in the past years, so we kind of know what to expect. For the next nine or so days we will be playing a lot of volleyball. We will be training for about five days then we will start competing in the USA Open Tournament.

We all know, or at least know of, most of the girls that are going to be in Dallas, because we have played with or against each other in high school, club, or college. It's always fun sitting down and talking to some of the them about their college program and experiences. We each have had a unique experience, and some are just beginning their college experiences, like Jen Bonilla. But for Colleen Ward and I, and many others, this season will be our last season with our college teams. I can't speak for Colleen or Jen, but hanging out with all the girls is the best part of A2, but I am sure they feel the same.

This is my second year training with the USA A2 team. I also trained after my freshman season. The USA Open Tournament was in Minnesota and we practiced at University of Minnesota. The facilities were great and it was close enough to walk from practices to the dorms and back. This year we are staying at University of Texas-Dallas. We will be walking back and forth to practices here, as well.

I am so excited to start playing some volleyball with some of the top players in the country. The level of play is usually extremely high by the end of the tournament. It will be a great experience and I can't wait to share it with all of you. Happy Reading!