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Nov. 24, 2006

Gauchos Hang Ten in Malibu
Pepperdine

The Gauchos surfed the Waves in a double overtime victory in Malibu. This road trip down the 101 was the closest away game I have been on. The only stop that kept the drive from being nonexistent was the stop at Wood Ranch Restaurant in Camarillo. If you have not been there, put it on your to do list. Know that if you ever take any words of advice from a southerner, let it be suggestions on BBQ joints. It was great, hands down the best I¹ve had since heading west from Mississippi. After leaving Camarillo, we decided to take the coastal scenic route on Pacific Coast Highway. Man, the aesthetics that drive has to offer. I saw numerous small beaches and campgrounds that I will have to keep in mind for next Memorial Day weekend.

After arriving on campus at Pepperdine it was a short drive up the hill to the gym. I was surprised; Firestone Field house was a small arena in accord to the school¹s mid-major division one status. It was a great place to play, a true shooters gym. Which is exactly what they did, threes, threes, and more threes. The game lasted longer than the trip there, with the two overtimes that truly tested our determination and poise. After we pulled away with about a minute and a half left in the second OT the back two legs of my chair finally let down to the floor and my heart slowed a pace or two. The first overtime game of the season showed that we have what it takes to finish what we started.

We left Pepperdine with an improved record of 4-0, the best start since 1992. Coach Williams had many inspirational words, one being that what is more important than how you start the season, is how you finish it. He put things in perspective to keep what we have going and not look past any game. This could not be more true anywhere else than in college basketball. The ride back allowed time for realization that we have no reason to not be contenders for the Big West title.

As the trip came to a close we stopped to grab some fast food. I chose McDonald¹s as the rest of the team went across the street to Jack in the Box. I thoughtŠ There is something they know that I obviously don¹t. Sure enough it was the milk shakes, and I still haven¹t forgiven my lack of knowledge on that one.

The Gauchos face up with San Diego State on Saturday. It should be a great duel as both teams are undefeated so far. The game time has been moved to 2 pm in order to allow you soccer fans to attend that night¹s Elite Eight match against Northwestern. To all, Happy Thanksgiving, and save some for me.