May 27, 2002

BACK HOME

Here we are back in Boca after falling to UCF 8 - 6 in the championship game of the A - Sun Tournament. After a day off to regroup, the game still ranks as one of the most exciting of the year. There were great defensive plays all day, and the result went right down to the last at bat with the tying runs in scoring position. But as has been the case all season, UCF was able to keep coming at us and finally hold us off at the end.

Our players really rose to the occasion throughout the tournament. It made me proud to be a part of their effort.

Somarriba, Cox, Core, and Orton were named to the all tournament team. Gabe was an amazing 13 for 20 with a homerun and two doubles. Rob Orton continued his season long transformation from a defensive player to a solid hitting catcher. Rob was eleven for twenty, and is batting over .300 for the season. Cox was seven for twenty one with two homeruns. Danny Core pitched a great complete game opening day to start us off on the right foot.

We can moan and groan about a questionable call in the ninth, but it was a great effort. We just couldn't stop them at the end. Matt O'Brien threw a great five plus innings, and deserved a better fate. Jeff Fiorentino made two great diving catches early in the game. In the eighth, he made one of the best catches I've ever seen, to bring a home run back in and keep us tied.

FAU went up to Deland carrying more baggage than bats, balls, and uniforms. We challenged our players in practice to face the failures of the last few weeks and answer the bell. I think we all did that, and then some. Their families, fans, and coaches are proud.

LAND OF HOPE AND DREAMS

One of Springsteen's most recent songs uses the image of a big train rolling through the US. It carries a litany of diverse types, all going to their land of hopes and dreams. Though some are good, and some are bad, some successful, others less, they all share the ride and the journey. They all share the dream. "Dreams will not be thwarted; faith will be rewarded."

Today we see if the NCAA selects Florida Atlantic to get on this train and ride on to the land of hope and dreams for every college baseball player...OMAHA.

Hundreds of schools start the year hoping to see their name announced on television. Hoping to see where they travel to continue their careers. One week at time, double elimination for your year, or career to end. There is nothing like it. We have done what we can. 43 - 18, is that enough? I think so but we shall see.

Thanks for sharing the ride. KC