Waikiki Beach III

Yesterday was Sandwhich, Volleyball, Sandwhich. . . .

I have learned my lesson from my first day on the courts. My hair is just too long; it was constantly getting in my eyes while playing and leaving me very vulernable against some good talent. I wouldnt want to get caught with my pants down against some of these guys. So I broke out my headband.

Its pretty sweet actually. I am rocking a John McEnroe mushroom-top type look. That plus the unkept beard makes me quite the unique sight out on the courts.

I havent played proper ball in a while on a court or sand. So my endurance isnt what it should be, that plus the intense Hawaiian sun leaves me a sweaty mess after each game. And whenever I make a play for a shanked ball and dive in the sand, it all just sticks to my sweaty skin and beard. After one dive, the only thing distinugishing me from the homeless guys walking around collecting cans is my sweet headband.

The talent out here has been very good and Ive enjoyed the challenge. You always meet some interesting people on the court.

Day 1: A Norweigan guy who imitated Arnold Schwarzenger but cursed in Italian after any boggled hit. And a guy named Milan who was of course from Serbia.

Day 2: A freshman setter at Honolulu University who was red shirted after he broke his next after falling on the referee stand (a feat only possible if you have a serious vertical). We played a huge Samoan dude, who seemed to know everyone who approached the court. Nice guy.

Day 3: Another Honolulu University freshman and some other new recruits for their upcoming season. We played an ex pro, or at least Im told. One of the recruist, the one I played with at least, was a German named Jonas. Im 6'5", nearly two meters tall, but next to this guy I felt like a child. I honestly felt like he could pick me up and put me in his pocket. He had to be close to 7. Had to be. He made me feel like a decent setter for a change, because anything I put up always evolved into a 'gut hit.' I dont know why they kept serving him. His nickname the Berlin Wall seemed appropriate.

. . . . .

Today, I took a public bus, two and half hour to the furthers point from my hostel on the island. We drove all day through the beautiful weather. I got off the bus, laid on my towel, took off my shirt, put on some sun screen, and then it started to rain. But whatever, it doesnt matter. I am in the zone.

If ever I go missing from VA, and you are fairly certain I am still in the country, start with Hawaii.