The UBC T-birds continue their foreign expedition in Korea into early August. The thunderbirds were awarded a Sunday off for recovery to maintain both physical and mental intensity. The thunderbirds used this day to tour parts of Itaewon and Seoul. They managed to catch up on some forms of Korean street life. They strolled a marketplace-like neighborhood in Itaewon, not only enjoying local restaurants and shops but allowed themselves to browse the local street vendors as well. Many of the team members picked up some phenomenal swag and a plethora of different types of clothing and accessories. Satisfied, the birds took to a 5 story marketplace in Seoul. The marketplace featured not only local businesses, but larger known labels including Mizuno, Asics, Converse and Puma. Highlighting this trip included many players purchasing Mizuno high tops.
Fresh off the day's rest on Sunday, the birds went back to the court on Monday. Despite having the morning off practice, the birds used the time for a video session. They took to the court in a friendly Monday evening against Hanyang University. The birds were unable to take a set off the team but showed great promise in the last couple sets of the match. Strong performances were given from setter Ryan Zwarich and middle, Yari Kozel. Later into the match, Rex Fenton started experiencing abdominal problems which soon escalated into very serious abdominal pains. Immediately following the match, Rex had to be rushed to the local hospital which was located on campus. Trainer Cam Quan and Richard Schick stayed behind as the rest of the team returned to the hotel. After treatment, Rex quickly recovered, making it back to the hotel for later that evening.
Tuesday was a very memorable day. The thunderbirds started the morning with an AM practice in the main gym of SKK, preparing for their nighttime game. It was a short lived hour long serve and pass session which was aiming at simple adjustments before the night. Come game time, it was apparent the birds were ready. UBC and SKK both put on spectacular performances. After losing the first set, the Tbirds came back and took the next 2 making it a 2-1 game lead for the birds. Despite close 4th and 5th sets, the birds ended up losing a 5th set heartbreak. The was a feeling of mutual respect felt by both sides for the high caliber of play. Many birds had fantastic nights including the attacking prowess of Demijan Savija balanced with the dynamic force of Ben Chow at power. Chris Klassen had an effective setting game and was distributing the ball nicely.All three serve receivers passed relatively well for the match and the teams defensive effort within the five sets baffled the crowd. Up at the net Joe managed a number of blocks to high to count, many of which left turned heads by the sheer force at which they met the ground. Cary Brett maintained the intimidation at the net during his front row play as the Korean side started using more off speed shots.
The two teams shared photos after the match. Following the game, the teams met for a final team banquet. Speeches from coaches and administrators were met with multiple rounds of applause and the fine quality of the food ensured that the already intimate atmosphere thrived for the duration. Before departing, team members exchanged jerseys and hugs. The overall feeling of the clubs was based around the short built friendship which both teams are both eager to uphold.
The T-birds are now in the final stretch of their trip and will play a couple more matches against a university team as well as a professional squad.
Thanks for reading
-Team Volleyhype
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