March 20, 2013
After I had blinked a few times, shook my head, and pinched myself, it was then I realized this was no dream. My career of 15 years was over! How do you express these thoughts? How do you give a glimpse into what this meant for myself and five other seniors? To be honest, I am not sure the reality has hit home. In all frankness, I ignore. Not yet do I want to feel the sting of competitive basketball being gone. Not yet do I wish to reminisce over the moments of my career. This is simply too painful. Tears well up in my eyes with these thoughts.
However, I must say that this season has been incredible! Where to start? I remember how the beginning of the season was brutal. We were losing more than we were winning. We had expectations to meet, fans to please, parents to make proud, and so on. This was stripped from us as we continued to play. Forced to play outside of ourselves, we began to trust each other, love each other, and rejoice with each other. I remember starting the season with three shoulder dislocations. I remember how God miraculously protected me from further injury for the remainder of the year. Never had I gone that long without a dislocation. God truly watched over me. I remember watching guys fall like bowling pins as we struggled from injury to injury. I remember sitting in the training room with them all, almost in a quiet serenity.
I remember some of Zimmy’s ridiculous dunks. I remember guys coming off the bench and making huge contributions. I remember coach’s 100th win. As he walked into the locker room we remained dead silent, until he sheepishly looked around and said, "Geez, what’s wrong with you guys?" At that moment we jumped from our seats and gave hum a huge hug and yelled at the top of our lungs. I remember winning against our first ranked team. I remember grabbing Chicago deep-dish pizza with the guys. I remember thinking how surreal it was to have my brother Jonny with me my senior year. I remember doing our handshake with him before every game. I remember us chanting in the huddle before game time. I remember hearing my name over the PA system. I remember looking at the seniors with this look of, "You hurting today?", and there would be a mutual nod of agreement. I remember just laughing on road trips or in the locker room. I remember us all sitting in the locker room as we waited to see if we had made it into the NCAA II tournament. I remember all of us walking out with disappointment. I remember coach meeting with us our final game and explaining to us that we play for Christ. Nothing in this life will fill the void that has been meant to be filled by Christ. Everything is fleeting and will be forgotten. I remember playing the next day for that exact reason. I remember having a blast for the last time with teammates on that court. I remember not being able to look where my father was in the stands in fear of breaking into tears. I remember breaking into tears as I saw him the last time after a game. I could go on and on and on.
Cedarville has been good to me. Some of the best years of my life will be from this place. Some of my most treasured friendships for life have come from this place. I will have many memories after I leave this place. I would like to say thank you to a couple of people. First, I want to thank Mark Womack, Don Callan, and Jim Clark, for all their hard work in airing the games, announcing the games, and doing all the written blurbs you read after each game. I want to thank Alan Geist for being incredibly supportive and doing a wonderful job with our transition from NAIA to NCAA. I want to thank Drew Howard for making sure we all stayed in school. I want to thank each one of my teammates for making me a better person. I want to thank them for supporting me and loving me. They have had a wonderful impact on my life and will continue to do so. I want to thank Coach Newman for helping me through deep personal issues. I want to thank him for always looking out after us and desiring what’s best for us. I want to thank Ryan Neises for his ministry to the guys and his care for all of us. He too had a major contribution in certain stages of my college career. I want to thank Coach Estepp for being the best coach I have had. I want to thank him for always keeping Christ the center of what we do. I want to thank him for being more than a coach, but a mentor, counselor, and friend. I want to thank each member of my family for riding this journey with me. I want to thank Jonny for being an inspiration to me. Lastly, I want to thank my parents. My dreams would have never come true without their support. I want to thank my mother for loving me sacrificially and encouraging me. I want to thank my father for being at every one of my games, for being in each surgery room with me, for giving everything he had so that I could do what I love. I am truly overwhelmed with the love I have received from so many.
I look forward to seeing where my fellow teammates go from here. Each one has such unique gifts and truly has the opportunity to bless others. I trust they keep Christ at the center of their lives. That will be one decision they never regret. I pray that Cedarville basketball continues to be Cedarville basketball in all its greatness. Thank you Cedarville and thank you to everyone involved with this team. You have blessed us in ways that many will not know. Thank you for the opportunity that I had to be a part of this team. Thank you for your prayers and love.
I will miss every bit of it…
See you on the Foote side (unless Jonny decides to take over the blog :)
March 12, 2013
Conference Champions. We had accomplished our goal. Up until last weekend, our team had no idea whether we would be making it into the NCAA or NCCAA tournament. As a result, we understood the importance of keeping our focus on what was directly before us. We knew that thinking ahead would distract us, so we decided to set a goal to win the conference championship. The team remained focused and responded well to the challenge. We won 11 straight games. That is difficult at any level.
We were going into Friday’s game after two weeks of practice. Every one of us was itching to get on the court and compete. After all this time, it did not take long for us to get tired of playing each other. Now don’t get me wrong…we love each other, but two weeks of hitting each other gets a little old. We looked as though we had taken no time off. On both Friday and Saturday’s games we looked sharp and energetic. Fortunately, we kept our defensive edge and offensive attack.
Winning the conference championship was quite the accomplishment. Cedarville University made its mark by being the first team to win the first G-MAC title. It is pretty awesome being part of the team that accomplished this feat. Not only is winning the tournament exciting, it is awesome to set that legacy for the younger guys. We have set a standard and hopefully the guys below us are motivated to repeat.
As a senior, winning the tournament was rewarding. Grasping that trophy brought me joy, happiness, and also a sense of closure. Not until after the game did the understanding that I had played my last home game at Cedarville University really set in. That court has brought me countless memories of joy, pain, suffering, reward, and life lessons. I cannot believe it’s over. I played my last competitive basketball game on that floor. It happened so quickly. It feels like yesterday when I had walked onto that floor as a freshman. I vividly remember walking to center court as a red-shirt freshman, closing my eyes, and visualizing the times I would play on this court again, again, and again. These are memories and moments I will remember for my entire life. Thank you Cedarville!
Our team is currently in Indiana getting ready to play in the NCCAA. I am truly excited to be here and hopefully bring back another trophy. Our first game is Wednesday and if we win we play Thursday and Saturday. Lets roll baby!
See you on the Foote Side!
March 5, 2013
Two weeks will have passed when we play Friday night in the semifinals of the G-MAC Tournament. The last time we had two weeks off we lost our first game in the NAIA National Tournament. What I mean to say is that it remains difficult to stay focused and keep our edge. Yes, we compete against each other in practice, but it does not size up to the feel of a game. With that being said, I am proud of the way we have fought the last two weeks. If anything, practice has been at one of its most competitive stages.
The guys are working hard and playing with intensity. Many players may not make the following statement: Practice has been fun! Although some of our bodies are worn down and hurting from lingering injuries, our minds are sharp. The mental aspect of sports has definitely been revealed to me during this gap of game play. It goes to prove that the mind can make the body work and push onward regardless of the situation. When game time comes, I have full confidence that the guys will be ready to roll.
There still remains a slim chance of entering the NCAA II Tournament. Although our chances of receiving a bid into the NCCAA tournament stands…this too is not a guarantee. Again we find ourselves with nothing to lose and everything to gain. I had mentioned in an earlier blog that this often pushes us to play our best basketball. With everything in limbo, I find it strange to think that for six of us this could be the last week of competitive basketball we play. But at the moment, let’s not focus on this. For now, we have practice and games to play.
Regardless of the time frame, the season is coming to a close. No one can choose to deny the fact. As a senior, my mind replays the career I have had. After five years, my mind often creates a visual mesh of memories that are hard to distinguish. Although I have vivid memories of each year, both painful and joyful, my mind strays to beg the questions: What has this game done for me? What has this game taught me? Am I proud of my career? How have I used this gift to aid others and not myself? What could I have done better? What kind of legacy have I left? So many times I have taken these five years for granted. How about my whole career?
I blink and I am here, nearing the end of it all. Wow. Truly, this game is a reminder that everything passes in the wind and none of it is worth my time or His unless done for His glory. These questions bring both regret and joy. Some questions I can answer confidently…others not so much. Michael Jordan recently made a comment that life is hard to keep living. He would give up everything to live in the days of his glory and fame. The bitter truth is that he never will. What will we take as treasure in the everyday moments of our life? I hope it is not regrets, but rather praise to Him for the blessings we have and the blessings we have lived to tell.
February 25, 2013
My last regular season game has come and gone. Unbelievable. I honestly try not to focus on this realization. It distracts me. And it actually makes me sad. Both individually and as a team we still have much to look forward to. At the moment we are on the cusp of making it into the NCAA II tournament. Our current ranking within the region has yet to be disclosed; however, the two wins this last week were a must for the NCAA tournament to remotely be a possibility. The road does not end there. As our conference tournament is played next week, these too will have an effect on our ranking. In order to qualify for the tournament, we must fall into the Top Eight ranking positions within our region.
We have collectively decided to not play in the regional game for the NCCAA (National Christian College Athletic Association). If you followed us last year, we won this tournament. Due to our decision, the only way we could make it into this tournament is to receive an at-large bid. Basically, qualify for the tournament without having to play a regional game. We decided to do this because we wanted to wait as long as we could to see if we could qualify for the NCAA. Yes, it is a risk, but in my full support a worthy risk. Especially with six seniors.
For now, we have practice for the next two weeks. It is vital we remain focused. We cannot check out. To be honest, it is somewhat fun and gives you that tingling feeling knowing our backs are against the wall. The anticipation for the results are exciting. It almost relaxes you. Makes you realize that we have nothing to lose. Makes you want to play your guts out.
I love this team more and more as we come to a close. Things seem to have slowed down. I am grateful for this feeling. I do not feel like the season, experiences, and memories have all flashed before me and suddenly vanished. Sure, it has flown by incredibly fast. However, I am relaxed and feel as though I am enjoying the moments and most importantly remembering the moments. This experience will end, but the memory will remain.
Sometimes that realization is painful, as those memories make you miss this period of time in our life. Makes you miss that butterfly feeling right before the game starts. Makes you miss the sweat you pour for what you love. Makes you miss the camaraderie. Makes you miss the glory. Makes you miss the pain. Makes you miss the gift. Makes you miss simply being able to run up and down the court. I guess what I am saying is that this is a time to treasure…and most let it fly by. It is an important life lesson to learn how to slow down and give your full attention to what’s before us. Life goes fast and its up to us to make the most of it.
Psalm 90:2 – "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom."
I apologize if this blog seems to be somewhat all over the place. I find it increasingly difficult to write all these thoughts into such a brief account. And I have a lot of thoughts.
Until next time, see you on the Foote side.
February 18, 2013
We had finally played our last game at Cedarville University. At least in front of a great crowd. We have the potential to host our conference tournament; however, the tournament would be played over spring break when no students are around. So in a sense, the six seniors did play our last home game at CU. It is a bitter sweet truth.
My approach to the game was that it was simply another game. These games can be difficult to focus on. Everyone was asking what this night meant to me. They were asking how it made me feel. Was I sad? Was I happy? I intentionally tried to ignore these statements. Processing these questions brought pressure. They made me feel as though I had to play my best game, score a ton of points, get my first dunk, and so on. I have never wanted to play with that pressure. It constricts you and makes you play for yourself. That’s not what this game is about. That’s not Cedarville basketball. Senior Night is about enjoying yourself. Enjoying the memories and relationships built. Remembering the gifts and protection that God has granted me for 15 years of my career. These are hard to live by.
To be honest, I did not have a good game. I did not shoot well. I did not score a lot of points. I cannot say that I played my best game on our home court. But that is ok. Sure, I would have like to play well. My family and friends came from all over the country to support me. I wanted to perform well in front of them. I especially desired to play well in front of my father. He has been there every step of the way and been there though all of my shoulder problems. He is the one guy I can talk basketball with and really express my frustrations and joys.
Yes, I wanted to have the best game of my life in front of him that night. But life is not about getting what you want. It is about perspective and enjoying the moment, good or bad. It’s about being happy for Zimmy and knowing that Senior Night was the one college basketball game that his mother was able to attend. It’s about being happy for Zach and knowing that he made the right decision to transfer to Cedarville. It’s about being happy for Caleb, Hickman, and Hecker who have been here from the beginning. My family and friends love me no matter how I play and will always support me.
This is a great game. And this game is a gift.
See you on the Foote side!
February 11, 2013
Two weeks left of the regular season. Wow! I was recently reminded of how fast time passes when my professor announced that our mid-term test was next week. My first thought was, already? Are we really almost half way through my final semester as a Cedarville student and athlete? Time is fleeting and our lives are short no doubt. No wonder the Lord tells us to live everyday to its fullest. There is so much joy available to us through life in Him, but in all honesty little time to enjoy it. Whew, feel like I am about to start preaching so I will switch to a less somber note.
Our team continues to roll through our opponents. We have been playing our best basketball of the year. Defensively we have kept teams to a decent shooting percentage, turned the ball over less, and shared the ball really well. Oh, and we’re finally shooting the ball well…could have used that a little earlier in the year. As I reminisce, I always wish we could have learned to play this well, as a team, earlier in the season. I actually hope that the teams that follow will learn to click with each other relatively quicker that we have. However, perhaps it is just the nature of the game where you continue to get better and better as time goes on. And you don’t always want to be playing your best basketball at the beginning of the year because playing consistently well is hard to maintain. Your best play always wants to come during tournament time.
We have four more games until our conference tournament. If we succeed in beating our next two opponents then we will have solidified home court advantage during our conference tournament. Achieving smaller goals, such as home court advantage, has helped us keep our focus. Other semi-exciting news is that this weekend is Senior Night. It truly is a bittersweet understanding as this season comes to a close.
Well, hopefully two wins later we will be seeing you on the Foote side.
February 4, 2013
I am having fun. As the season slowly ebbs closer and closer to its end, I truly am having fun. I welcome this change. Before, our team had been facing brutal challenges such as constant injury and the lack of victories. It is natural for competitive individuals to not enjoy themselves when things are not falling their way. And for the most part, things have not quite fallen our way. However, through all this frustration I feel as though we as a team have found ourselves once again. It is true that we have won more games recently and have been playing better as a team. But as a unit we are having fun. I found myself laughing, smiling, and loving the game of basketball on Tuesday and Saturday of last week. Not only was I enjoying myself but also my teammates, whether on the floor or the bench, they were laughing, smiling, and just enjoying the moment. I noticed this and simply writing about it makes me smile.
I believe part of what has contributed to our success is our goal. As a team we desire to win our conference championship. Due to our current record, we do understand that making the NCAA II tournament is unlikely. Interestingly though, we have not lost heart from this understanding. We know we have the potential to still finish very well. As a result, we have set our goal to win our conference tournament. Not only do we want to win this tournament, but wish to host it. However, for this to be necessary we must win out. So far I believe the team to have risen to this challenge.
This week we have two games. Although both games are big, Trevecca Nazarene will be quite the game. For those of you who remember, we lost by four in our last outing. We look forward to revenge.
As we continue to finish this season, please be in prayer for the team to finish well and to finish healthy. Please keep Bryan Redic in your thoughts and prayers, as his season has had to unfortunately end due to a broken hand.
See you on the Foote side.
January 29, 2013
Things are clicking. It has been a trend for Cedarville Basketball to start playing their best at this time of the year. Now, it would seem natural that most teams would be playing their best ball at this time; however, this seems different. It seems deeper. The chemistry, the teamwork, the energy, and the ability to have FUN seem to be keeping this team together after somewhat of a brutal beginning to the year. It reminds me that we truly do play for something different than ourselves. We are sustained and guided by the Lord and for these reasons he keeps us going.
As a senior I have realized the fleeting aspects of life. Looking back it seems as though yesterday I started playing and soon I will be saying that tomorrow will be my last day to competitively play basketball. Things come and go. As a result, I have found it difficult to not place pressure on myself. Every senior desires to leave with a ‘bang’, but this can create a sense of urgency in performance and legacy. I have to remind myself that averaging 20 points a game is not a pressure I need to place onto teammates or myself. Rather, these last few games have become a matter of simply enjoying the moments. Relishing the memories. Giving thanks for an athletic gift that many would desire to have.
With a month of games left, our team is in a place where we are enjoying the game, enjoying each other, and making the most of what these next days bring.
See you on the Foote Side!
January 21, 2013
Austin Foote shares his thoughts on the first VIDEO BLOG of the season.
January 15, 2013
Welcome back! Well...the majority of us guys have been back for some time, but as far as blog writing goes...welcome back. Christmas break was short and sweet. In fact, I have no reason to complain as we had more time off than I can remember during my time here at Cedarville. Perhaps it was because Hawaii treated coach really well and as a result felt inclined to provide us with some extra time. Or perhaps it was because we also won two games in Hawaii...but I cannot say for sure. After he reads this I will probably get called into his office...sorry coach. Regardless, the guys enjoyed their time off with their families.
Coming back to school turned a different leaf for our team. We lost two games, one to Southern Indiana and another to Trevecca Nazarene. These losses were tough, especially after coming off a two-game winning streak. We felt as though we had some momentum, but the game of basketball can be fickle and when you do not show up to play on any given day...anything can happen.
However, what I appreciate about our team most is our ability to keep moving forward. Sure, there are times where we do not adjust like we should or put into action what coach drills into us each day. But, the guys keep their heads up and keep playing. Now, I'll be honest that this year has not proved to be as successful as I had anticipated. At the same time...my perspective changes. I realize that success does not always come in the form of winning. Success comes in the form of why we play, what we play for, our character, our attitude, and our impact on others. I have no idea what will happen in the win and loss ratio at the end of the season, but as I play these last few games in my career...I simply want to enjoy myself, my team, the relationships built, the memories made, and the lessons learned. Again, this sport has taught me that basketball is more than a game. It is an opportunity regardless of the wins and losses. These opportunities can either be ignored or accepted. Ignoring these opportunities are not only detrimental to me but the people who support me and surround our team. On the flip side, when opportunities are utilized the lessons learned can be endless.
My goal as we finish the next couple of games is to hopefully pass on a legacy and an example that basketball is a gift, provided by God, that we can choose to relish and give glory back to Christ. We are broken creatures with a mission to give back to the One who has given everything to people who deserve nothing. I hope He reigns supreme as we finish.
See you on the Foote Side!
December 19, 2012
Where to begin after spending a week in the beautiful islands of Hawaii...honestly there is too much to tell.
To start, we had an incredibly long flight to Hawaii. Our entire team was wide awake (well not quite) and ready to depart at 3:45 AM from Cedarville University. The flight departed from Ohio at 6 AM to Chicago. We then had about a five-hour layover where most of the guys (including myself) slept. With a crew of roughly 30 individuals, we defiantly knew how to take over the airport seating areas. We then departed onto an eight and a half hour flight to Honolulu, Hawaii. We arrived midday somewhat exhausted and mentally spaced out. Our bodies were present but it seemed as though all of our minds were in a different place. In order to stay on pace with Hawaii time (five hours behind Ohio time) it was important for us to stay awake the entire day. Late that night we had a quick practice to get us moving and get us out of our daze. That night we slept like rocks.
We woke the next morning to drizzly skies. Hawaii is the one state in which I have experienced the most erratic weather patterns. It could be sunny and 80 then suddenly rain. Wind would bluster at random moments, but then suddenly disappear. I also saw more rainbows in that week than I have seen in my lifetime. But enough about the weather. Practice was at 9 that morning. Surprisingly, we had an incredible practice. The guys had energy and were excited to play. Hawaii will do that to an individual I guess.
Our plan for the remainder of the day was to stay busy in order to adjust to the time change. Initially we were going to go to Pearl Harbor, but that was canceled. This turned out to be what we call a "clutch" move by coach. All the guys were thrilled to have the afternoon to ourselves. We went to the beach, walked around, sat by the pool, swam in the pool, and so on. None of us could believe that we could actually tan...on a beach...in the middle of December. First, it was awesome, and second it made it feel as though Christmas was a long ways off. Not really use to 80 degree weather in the middle of December. We thoroughly enjoyed our day and finished it off by all going to a nice restaurant.
One part of the trip I was concerned about was our focus. Naturally, I thought it might be easy for us to forget that we came here to play basketball and win two games. After all, we were in Hawaii and it felt a lot like vacation. I am proud to say the team proved me wrong. Our first game against BYU-Hawaii was intense, fast-paced, and hard fought. Our guys played our guts out with more grit and determination than I had seen. It was impressive to put it plainly. Winning that first game was an elating feeling. Now it was time to take care of game two.
Chaminade University is a good team. Earlier in the year at the NCAA Maui Invitational, Chaminade had beaten the University of Texas. Now, it is important to note that Texas is no slouch of a team. This is a DI school with loads of talent. Chaminade definitely had a win and confidence to hang their hat on. The game was hard fought until the very end. Guys like Zach Brown played an irreplaceable impact and role in that win. Guys stepped up all over the floor. What makes our team great is that anyone at any time can step up. It can be anyone’s night. After beating Chaminade, it was as if every worry in the world had disappeared. We had traveled all the way to Hawaii, played two impressive NCAA DII schools, won, and now we had the rest of the week to relax and enjoy. In fact, after beating Chaminade, do you realize that technically we are the No.1 team in the nation? Think about it...We beat Chaminade University, Chaminade beat Texas, Texas beat Butler, and Butler beat the No. 1 team Indiana. So...technically we beat the No.1 team in the nation. But don't worry, we didn't let ourselves get a big head.
Afterwards, we basically spent the remaining four days veggin’ out. Guys went shopping, hiking, snorkeling (I actually saw an octopus and rode a sea turtle...but don't tell because apparently it’s a crime?), swimming, eating, and very little sleeping. All of these activities were more thoroughly enjoyed after winning those two games.
As I look back on the trip it is so easy to simply live in the moment. It can be incredibly easy to overlook the fact that we had the opportunity to go to Hawaii...to play basketball! Seriously, what a blessing. A trip like this is so rare and I feel absolutely privileged to have been able to participate. I hope the guys never forget this and will fondly look back on this time. I truly desire to give all the details of our adventures, but you would honestly be staring at your computer screen until you needed eye drops.
I feel blessed to finally be back home for Christmas break. This is the first time Jonny and I have been home since we first left for school. I pray and trust that all of us remember the true reason behind Christmas. I pray and trust that we do not get caught up in the money and the gifts...but rather the gift of our Savior being born into this world and eventually dying for ALL our sins.
Praise Him this holiday and we will see you all soon!
See you on the Foote side.
December 12, 2012
Last Thursday night was one to remember. Our head coach, Pat Estepp, had just acquired his 100th win. As he walked into the locker room our team remained dead silent. He looked around somewhat confused and begged the question, "What is going on?" As he made his way into the middle of the locker room our entire team jumped from our seats and erupted into a controlled chaos of congratulations and manly yells. At that moment I was so proud of coach and our team as we relished in the excitement of our victory and joy for each others success. Personally, the moment was sentimental for me. I currently remain the only player at Cedarville who has played for Estepp since he first became head coach five years ago. As a result, it truly is a privilege to have been part of an honorable milestone in which we have fought tooth and nail for.
Coach Estepp has personally been a coach to me that cannot be replaced. I am so encouraged to see a man who has kept his convictions, values, and beliefs on the straight and narrow path. He has consistently kept Christ at the center of our team and in an honorable manner never been afraid to state its importance. These values and beliefs have created a team like no other. Coach Estepp, I personally would like to thank you for being a role model, a friend, a mentor, and an example of what Christ can do in powerful ways. We will fight with you till the end.
Our team has finally departed from the bitter coldness of Ohio to the sun-soaked beaches of Hawaii. As a senior, no one could have asked for a better trip to end a year on. Trips such as these are incredibly memorable. Trips such as these bring our team closer and closer together. Personally, I have never been to Hawaii and am just praying that it lives up to the pre-conceived notions that I have. Honestly though, I believe this island will hardly disappoint. Anyone who doesn't enjoy sun, beaches, waves, and warm weather should probably check in to see the family physician. I look forward to the next blog, which will be able to provide an overview of our experience.
Our team has finally reached the .500 mark. The latest victory against Ohio Christian gave us an even schedule. We are currently on a three-game winning streak. It has been awesome to see our team change and develop since our team discussion in the locker room after our loss against Lewis University. We truly are a new team and I look forward to see us only getting better. It will be important for our team to remain focused the first few days in Hawaii. We are here to play basketball. As the phrase goes, work comes before play. Business will be our mind set up to our last game on Friday. And business we will do.
See you on the Foote Side.
December 4, 2012
I walked out of that locker room Saturday afternoon feeling like we had just won the game that would send us to the national championship. Nothing else mattered at that moment. What did matter was my pride for this team. On Friday we had experienced another crushing loss sending us into deeper frustration and disappointment. So what changed that Saturday afternoon? Sure the win helped, but most importantly it was the way our team responded and played with more toughness and focus than I have experienced in my time here.
After Friday's loss we sat in the locker room...dead silence. Coach came in and in his words said, "What else do you want from me?" Coach was right. We knew what were supposed to do out in that gym. We knew the principles. We knew the X's and O's. We have been playing this game our whole lives. Yet we had failed to execute once again. As coach walked out we quickly began to get dressed. In our frustration we did not want to talk. As seniors though we quickly asked everyone to sit down. As the team took their seats we asked each player to voice their thoughts and opinions. Everyone had something worthy to say. Zimmy finished by challenging us whether what we just heard were empty words or what we truly believed. He was stiff with his challenge and it was exactly what we needed. We came to two conclusions. First, we simply needed to take care of the ball and value each possession. Secondly and most important, we needed to play with attitude.
We accomplished both these goals on Saturday. I could see it in each players’ face as we played that game. We wanted it. We were done talking about our problems. It was time to simply DO. My teammates yelled and rejoiced in every play and every success. Guys like Hecker stepped up after missing weeks and played his guts out. Hickman cannot seem to miss a shot right now and Zimmy is just Zimmy. The last play of the game was fitting to how we played. Zimmy stole the ball, went the entire length of the floor, and as he went to score, got fouled, but then probably thought something along the lines of, "I am gonna dunk this just because I can". And he did. Afterwards, he walked his way to the free throw line slowly nodding his head as if saying..."We got this and you cannot stop us."
Yeah...we’re a new team.
See you on the Foote Side!
November 27, 2012
In my five years at Cedarville we have never started the season 2-4. It is a strange feeling. I have always been part of a winning team and to finally be on the other side of the spectrum is an encounter that needs fighting through. Do not read me wrong, I am not saying the season is over or that we will be unable to turn this drought around....because we will. What I am saying is that with each new experience there is a lesson to be learned. Our lessons are minute but massive in result. Our team is only a couple of defensive plays, made free throws, and buckets away from winning these close games. Fortunately, we do not have some team epidemic or issue that is in need of revolutionary change. What we do need; however, is for each player to recognize what they do best, what they can do better, and then execute these abilities with passion.
From an outside perspective, people may believe the team is splitting apart, dismantling, or losing confidence. This is not the case. We are still a unit and we still love each other. We need to get gritty. We need to get passionate. And in the words of Coach Estepp, "we need to despise getting beat", whether that is our man driving by us, giving less than our best, or failing to consciously change what we can do better. This will come, but only if these 15 men are willing to step up, speak out, and play guts out.
A six and a half hour drive back from a loss is brutal. I sat in that bus mulling the game over. Players have this ability to remember almost each play, each mistake, and each triumph. As I sat in that bus, I recalled again and again what we could have done differently. It tore me up knowing we gave that one way. It tore me up knowing that we had been discussing the same defensive issues multiple times, but had been unable to execute effectively. There comes a time when it has to stop. I know that time is now. In fact, that time should have been games ago and I truly believe we would have been 4-2 as a result. Holes are tough to dig out of and even tougher when done by oneself. The hole needs to stop getting deeper and with the help of my 14 teammates, it will be done.
I am amazed at the life lessons that I continue to learn in this last year. Our minds continually deceive us into thinking that we have reached it, that we understand it all, that we do not need help....that we do not need change. I am humbled by the understanding that we never have this all figured out. The funny part is that athletics plays such a small role in the bigger scheme of life. This does not mean I give up or do not give it a second thought, but rather means that everything must be placed into perspective. My perspective is that God is our purpose to play, our ability to play, and my enjoyment to play. Am I perfect at this? Of course not. But blessed is the man who does everything for Christ. I pray our team fights with all our valor for this purpose.
Before I close, I would like to give a brief shout out to Caleb Maxwell's father, Terry Maxwell. Mr. Maxwell is part of a coaching staff for a home school basketball team, Aaron Academy, in Nashville, TN. He had informed me after the game that he had been reading the blogs to their team throughout the season. First, this encouraged me and made me glad that what we are doing here at Cedarville University is having a potential blessing on other individuals. Mr. Maxwell also told me that their team also had six seniors graduating. I know you seniors do not know me, but hear me out. For those of you six who continue to play or do not play after this season ends...first, lead well, remember well, and finish well. I promise you, your greatest regret after finishing an athletic career is wishing you could have done more and played harder than you did with this gift you have been given. Do not let that be your regret. Rather let this last year be your most memorable. Best of luck to you boys.
See you on the Foote Side.
November 20, 2012
Sports may be one of the few activities that has ultimate highs and ultimate lows. Right when things seem to be going perfectly, things can change quickly. On the flip side, when nothing seems to be working, everything can seem to click in one moment. The momentum of a game and team can vary in a matter of a few plays. We as a team are pushing through this sluggish start. Our most recent win gave us a boost. We had needed a win after our first two losses and although our victory was sub-par at best...we would take the win. One thing we are realizing; however, is we have no room to breathe. We have no room to sit back and kick our feet up. Our competitive schedule will not allow that behavior.
Our next game was against the No. 8-ranked team in NCAA II, Findlay. Most of you already know the conclusion to this game. It always leaves somewhat of a bitter taste in your mouth when your weaknesses are exploited. In addition, you have to face these weaknesses, acknowledge them, and fix them. It is like forgiving someone, it is incredibly hard to do, but in the end both parties are much better and then begin the process of repairing that broken trust or relationship. Our first weakness was defense. Although we work hard, our focus, awareness, and recognition have not been one hundred percent. We break down and allow our opponents to drive by us, back cut us, and score far too many points in the paint. Our second weakness is our offense. Stagnant and ineffective are two ways to describe its current status. Little ball movement, quick shots, and unwise drives to the basket have caused little production.
But there is good news. The good news is that we recognize the problems. Our most recent practice was spent entirely on addressing these issues. Sure, its difficult but in the end and in the long run I truly believe we will be very effective. I would have liked to start the season with a better record. I would have liked to start this season without the disappointment. I could wish a lot of things, but the truth of the matter is that none of it can be changed. We do what we can now, make the most of the opportunities before us, and we have fun.
See you on the Foote Side!
November 12, 2012
No team likes an 0-2 start. No senior likes an 0-2 start. It is difficult to comprehend that as a senior, there is no "next year". Almost every senior that has graduated before me always tells me, "Foote, get it next year" or "You got another year...come back stronger". Well there is no next year for almost half our team. This is it and it hurts. It hurts seeing guys broken and disappointed in that locker room. I have found that after years and years of spilling guts, sweat, and blood on that gym floor, a loss never gets easier. The passion and competitiveness on that floor doesn't allow an "easy" win. However, that same passion and competitiveness doesn't allow for an athlete to dwell on the past. We have no choice but to keep our chin high, our arms still swinging, and our spirits never failing. If we let that happen, we would not deserve to be in that uniform, on that gym, and in that locker room.
This is the bittersweet truth about sports. It builds character at a cost sometimes. I like to ask myself, "Where would I be if failure wasn't part of my life?" It is difficult to say what it would be like, but I do know a few things. I wouldn't know what perseverance entails. I wouldn't know what encouragement sounds like. I wouldn't know what unity feels like. Sure, basketball is only a game and many of these same characteristics can be learned through other experiences in life; however, sports brings these to light in a way that many instances cannot.
As a senior, I am beginning to relish everything. Pointing a finger at your teammate to give them credit for an assist, the hands that pull you off the floor after taking a charge, the fist pump after a big shot, the hard breathing from giving it your all, the pressure at a free throw line, the cheers from your bench after making a stellar play, the approving nod from your coach, the guys who get in your face to make sure you don't give up, the sweat on the floor from diving on that hardwood, the swish of the net, the tears of joy and frustration, the blessing of having a gift that only God can bestow; these are what I will remember and keep close to me forever. We love this game and that’s why we continue to do what we do.
It is incredible how much of sports is mental. Many teams crash or resurrect themselves based on what they choose to think and then act upon. I give credit to my father for this truth. Ever since I can remember my father would tell me, "Austin, life is lived in the head". I remind myself of that truth everyday. We, as a team, must choose to be mentally strong. Our mind is powerful and can allow us to do things we never deemed possible. Ok I admit, I am no psychology major, but I know that our ability to come back stronger than before starts with our mind. This is easier said than done. It can be easy to think that a season is determined by our start. It can be easy to allow ourselves to feel the disappointment after such high expectations for this year. It can be easy to crumble with a lack of confidence. But isn't that the easy way out? No, we will fight, we will press on, we will run this race, and we will be good.
It is truly a comfort knowing we play for something greater than ourselves. We are not out there to impress our friends, fans, and parents. We are there to impress Christ. I love playing for a team that plays for a higher purpose. Every time we break huddle, we put our hands together and yell "For Him!" I pray this is not meaningless, but sincere and genuine truth. I know that every time my feet touch that floor, I must give all I have.
Regardless of our performance, my performance, our wins or our losses, we owe it to our Creator to play our hardest. I like to think that the pressure is not on us, but on those we play. We can continue to go on because of what He has done for us. Gotta love it.
See you on the Foote Side
November 8, 2012
Roughly fifteen years ago a basketball had been placed into my hands for the first time. Immediately I fell in love. I worked hard and spent hours shooting and dribbling on that concrete drive way in Lansing, Michigan. Even during the winter I would bundle up and place tight fitting gloves onto my hands so that my shot would be less effected. My father and I would spend hours in the gym shooting hundreds of shots. I always loathed the sprints and suicides he would make me run. Through the course of these fifteen years I have loved, hated, suffered, and succeeded in the game of basketball. People ask me now, "Would you do it again?" and I answer, "Every time." Through these fifteen years I have had four shoulder surgeries and countless dislocations. I would not even trade those difficult times for better ones. They molded me and let me be a person I never could have been.
It is surreal to think that fifteen years ago I started my career and now fifteen years later, I will be ending my career in the next few months. It has been a journey. A journey that will end for six individuals. What you read above is a brief glimpse into my journey. Five other guys on this team also each have their own special beginning and ending to their story. Zimmy Nwogbo, Caleb Maxwell, Zach Brown, Daniel Hickman, Brian Hecker, and myself are all seniors. In fact, this constitutes the largest graduating class of any team that I have played with. That’s special. I am sure I can speak for all of the seniors when I say that only at this point do you realize the seriousness of the situation. No matter how much anyone loves the game of basketball; no one understand what basketball really means to you as an individual until you are a senior. I want it more this year than I could have possibly imagined.
Six seniors on one team creates a special bond and talent that comes scarcely. This team has been the most close-knit group of players that I have experienced and played with. In my five years as a Cedarville University athlete, I treasure and love this team most. Perhaps that is seniority speaking, but I love this team.
At the beginning of our first practice, we huddle together as a team. Coach Estepp walked into the middle of our circle and gave us a challenge. He said, "Nobody knows who Cedarville is. In NAIA, everybody would have known who you were and you would have been on top of the world, but right now, were nobody. This is your chance to make your name known, this is your chance to let people know what Cedarville is about". We are ready to make our mark and we are eager to compete at a level that Cedarville has never treaded upon.
Our journey as a team begins this weekend as we play Holy Family and the NCAA II Pre-season No.1 ranked team, West Liberty. Regardless of the outcome, I genuinely look forward to playing side by side with each and every individual on this team. The beginning of the end starts now.
See you on the Foote side.
Austin Foote is a 6-foot-0 senior guard from Castle Rock, Colo. He is in his fourth season with the Yellow Jackets and is majoring in sport management.
