Timothy Hamm

October 1, 2004

We left for Greensboro in hopes of better weather. Our hopes were dashed when we hit our second hurricane of the season.

Our first tournament was shortened to one round after Hurricane Ivan hit us in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Our second tournament also was shortened due to the effects of Hurricane Jeanne.

Our two hurricane-shortened events of the season have hurt our hopes for making a strong push for nationals, but at the same time made us realize that we couldn't just show up and make nationals.

Everyone on the team has a newfound resolve for making nationals. Last season's results showed us the hard work and dedication it takes to excel, but our results from this season have shown that we can't take it for granted.

Several conversational team discussions have brought the team together. We have all agreed that our main goal is making sure that we get back to nationals. Winning nationals has been put on the back burner until we can prove to ourselves that we are capable of performing at a higher level.

The results of the first two tournaments have put a premium on our performance for the rest of the season. Although the pressure to succeed is at an all-time high, we have been able to come together as a team better than I have ever seen it.

One freshman, Drew Harker, has been able to break onto the travel team. His emergence could be a key ingredient to help the team jumpstart its season. Our difficult first two tournaments will provide the team's motivation to succeed at the national level.

Timothy Hamm is a senior from Niskayuna, N.Y. He would love to answer e-mail questions from Emory recruits and fans.