Taking home the hardware

Benjamin’s last club tournament of the season was pretty crazy. They were playing right down the street from where the riots were in downtown LA. We had a curfew imposed so the tournament got rearranged a little. Saturday night we were even put on a soft lockdown because pepper spray was being sprayed outside the tournament. We saw lots of damage to property and small businesses, but we made it out without any incidents. We were really glad no one was hurt and said lots of prayers for all around us and the peaceful protesters. 

With everything going on we were short a few players and then the morning of games two more players weren’t coming. Coach called Benjamin first thing and said he needed him in a new position for the tournament. Man oh man did Benjamin show up. Not only did he play a different position with no practice all season, this kid absolutely showed up! I can not say enough how proud I was. He completely crushed it- not just one match but ALL weekend long. I haven’t seen him play this well and so consistent before. He came in with the serves, kills, aces, blocks and not only that but guiding his team calling plays and balls from back row. He was positive and cheered his team on the whole time. Parents and coaches were complimenting him the entire weekend and coming to watch him play. Put the biggest smile on his sweet face.

 He had no subs so played all, 24 sets, 9 matches, every point. We had multiple sets where we were down by up to 8 and came back to win. As well as Benjamin played this weekend- his whole team absolutely brought it! They only had 7 players and brought home the trophy and bronze medals for Gold bracket! They lost in the third set 15-17 of the semis- I will never say enough how hard this team worked and how amazing they played!! Go Vegas United 16 white boys!