Thrall's Thoughts
9/17/2007 2:45:00 PM | Women's Basketball
Follow the 2007-08 Creighton women's basketball season through the thoughts of senior captain Ally Thrall. The point guard from Des Moines, Iowa, will write her blog weekly throughout her final season as a Bluejay.
March 31, 2008
With every end comes a new beginning.
Well, it's officially over. The feeling I had in the locker room after the overtime loss to Marquette is so hard to describe. As I looked around at my teammates and coaches, I wasn't upset about the fact that we lost the game, but more because I would never have the opportunity to put on that Creighton jersey and play with them again and be around them every day. I knew the season was close to being over, and I had done my best to prepare for that moment, but I found that it's impossible to prepare yourself for the reality of it all.
Looking back on the last four years playing basketball, I could not feel more blessed; I would not trade my experience at Creighton for anything. The friendships and memories have truly shaped my life and made me the person I am today.
Thank you to my family, friends, coaches, teammates and fans that made the ride so enjoyable.
Once a Jay, always a Jay.
Ally
March 19, 2008
I'm having a hard time trying to recap the MVC tournament weekend, partly because I don't think it has sunk in yet.
All 10 teams were a part of a historic weekend; it was the first time the tournament was played at a neutral site. It's unbelievable to think how far women's college basketball has come, and the promising future that lies ahead.
All of the nerves and anticipation for the tournament really build up, so it was relieving to get the first game against
The game took a bad turn when Michelle Kaus went down with about a minute left to play. I hate to see anyone get injured, but it hurts even more when it's someone from your own team. Michelle will have surgery within the next week or so, and then start her recovery. She's in good hands and we're giving her lots of love.
Postseason play continues! Late Monday night we found out we earned a bid into the WNIT. We are one of 112 women's teams fortunate enough to still be practicing and playing.
We're traveling to
Ally
March 12, 2008
(19-10, 12-6 MVC). Tournament time. It's the point in the year where previous wins and losses don't matter; records are thrown out the window. Three games in three days will determine the winner of the MVC Conference Tournament title. What an opportunity.
We leave for
It has been an amazing year and season, and we're looking to keep that going.
Go Jays!
Ally
March 5, 2008
(18-9, 11-5 MVC). What an incredible weekend. I couldn't think of a better way to wrap up our last two regular season home games in Omaha.
Thursday's game against Illinois State was one of our hardest fought games of the year. We trailed the entire game but never doubted ourselves. We refused to lose. We stuck together. This game really set the tone for the weekend.
Sunday was Senior Day. We beat Indiana State, and it felt great to walk off the court at the Civic one last time with a victory. As much as I would love to summarize and reflect on my last four years as a Bluejay, I can't bring myself to do so just yet. There are still games to be played, and many more memories ahead.
Thank you to all of the parents and fans who have shown up over the years to support Creighton Women's Basketball. Like I mentioned on Sunday, our program would not be where it is today if it wasn't for the support from such loyal fans like yourselves.
Gearing up for our last two regular season games ? Wichita State on Thursday (7:00 p.m.) and Missouri State (7:05 p.m.) on Saturday.
Check the calendar, March Madness has begun!
Ally
February 26, 2008
(16-9, 9-5 MVC). I don't know how to describe the weekend. We ended up going 1-1 on a road trip that we had the chance to sweep.
The bus ride was one of the most memorable I've ever had. First of all, I think our bus was from the 1960's, but that's beside the point. On the way to Cedar Falls, two tires fell off. Not popped, but literally fell off. The first loud screeching noise was blamed on the “bad transmission.” It took another crashing sound for the bus driver to pull over to check it out. I think Voss and I were the only two really concerned with the situation. Everyone else was intensely watching a movie and told us to be quiet because the driver was just changing a tire.
We were about 30 miles away from Des Moines, so we had to hang out on the side of the road for about an hour while we waited for another bus from Des Moines to come get us. Conveniently, we were able to witness the lunar eclipse. But that can only entertain you for so long. The whole tire debacle added another hour or two to the trip, but added some amusement nonetheless.
We played a solid game against UNI. Our defensive pressure led to good things.
The Bradley game...wish we could have that one back. I'm having a hard time justifying the loss. I give Bradley credit ? they played like they wanted it more than we did. No use beating ourselves up about it, we have two big games coming up this weekend.
This is going to be an emotional week for me. I am quickly approaching the end of the season, and end of my college basketball career. And for some reason I can't get my mind to stop thinking about it. But, the good news is the year is not over yet; we still have four games left and the conference tournament. There's no use worrying about the future when all I need to do is enjoy the here and the now.
Last two home games of the year this weekend, and last two home games for me and Sara at the Civic Auditorium. We face the top team in our conference, Illinois State, on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. and Indiana State on Sunday at 1:05 p.m.
Hope to see you all in the stands!
Ally
February 20, 2008
(15-8, 8-4 MVC) A positive attitude makes all the difference. We bounced back from a loss against Drake and beat two teams that we lost to the first time around. I would say both wins were a result of a collaborative team effort.
The pink game was wonderful way to remember all of those who are fighting cancer, those who have died and all who have survived. It's encouraging to see all the teams who participate in the cause nationwide.
In my opinion, the Evansville game was one of the most fun games of the year. Kellie Nelson dominated the paint in the first half! We were laughing and enjoying ourselves out there...which is the way the game is supposed to be played.
It was another great Alumni Weekend. Talking with alums is enjoyable, and getting the chance to hear their stories and memories from when they were at Creighton. It's crazy to think that they did the exact same thing we are doing now. We all share in a truly unique bond together. Sara and I already started scouting our competition for the alumni game next year. Ha!
Only six regular season games left, and the conference is getting interesting. We leave today for UNI and Bradley. We will do our best to bring back two more wins, and some warmer weather!
Ally
February 13, 2008
(13-8, 6-4 MVC) Gut check. I hate to repeat myself but, again, the outcome of the Drake game wasn't what we had in mind. Losing is never enjoyable, and it's not supposed to be. However it does cause you to look at yourself and determine what you can personally do to make the team better. I was reminded by many people to stay positive and confident, because one game cannot define your season. If we keep this attitude in mind, we'll be just fine.
I must say the trip to Des Moines wasn't a total bust. After practicing at the Knapp Center on Friday night, we headed to my house for a team meal. It was great to be home (even though it was only for a couple of hours) and the food was delicious! My mom and dad were well prepared for a group of hungry girls.
On the bus trip we're two fans, Mary and Diane ? it was fun to have you both along! Thanks to you two, and all of our fans, for your support.
We will have another chance at Southern Illinois (Thursday 7:05 p.m.) and Evansville (Sunday 12 p.m.) this weekend, two games that we lost on the road. Bottom line ? we need to compete.
This Thursday is the “Pink Out” game, scheduled appropriately on Valentine's Day. It's a great way to raise awareness for breast cancer and all fans are invited to wear pink to the game.
Also, it is Alumni Weekend and Creighton Lady Jays of all ages will be around. The actual alumni name is scheduled for Saturday evening at 5 p.m. They will be recognized at halftime of the game on Sunday.
The pancake man will be flippin' hot cakes on Sunday morning before our game against Evansville. Make sure to get there early enough to eat a quick breakfast!
Happy Valentine's Day!
Ally
February 5, 2008
(13-7, 6-3 MVC) It was an awesome weekend. And of course, we were all excited to come out of the weekend with two big road wins, but I was almost more excited with the team that showed up on Thursday night and Saturday afternoon. We brought an attitude, a mindset...and we proved to ourselves what kind of a team we can be.
It was also a momentous weekend for Flan. He earned his 100th career win on Thursday against Indiana State, and celebrated his first victory over a top 25 team (Illinois State) as a head coach.
We were fortunate enough to be in Normal, Ill., at the same time of the state cheerleading competition. I think people were confused, because we had to explain to them that we played basketball. They must not have noticed our 6” post players.
The bus trip was a lot of fun, and I'm sure winning had something to do with it. On the ride home, the coaches treated us to DQ Blizzards (my personal favorite)!
Now we are preparing to make the turn in the conference, and face every team for the second time. At this point in the year, every team is more familiar with opponent's personnel, scouting reports and plays. It comes down to both mental and physical toughness and the team that wants to compete.
If you remember the last time we played Drake, it wasn't pretty. We're looking to turn things around this time. This game will be a great test for our team.
It's my last time playing in my hometown of Des Moines, which is kind of a weird feeling. If you can't make it over to the Knapp Center on Saturday morning, you can catch the game on ESPNU at 11 a.m. Root for the team in BLUE!
Ally
January 29, 2008
(11-7, 4-3 MVC) Phew ? we survived yet another weekend at home and managed to hold on to two wins.
The UNI and Bradley games were actually kind of similar. We had stretches where we played defense and moved the ball on offense to build a lead. But at other times we let the other team back in the game. For some reason we thought it was a good idea to throw the ball to the other team and let them score lay-ups. Turns out that isn't a very good idea...
UNI was an emotional game for us ? it was definitely weird to see Coach Warren on the opposing bench. It's always hard to play against someone who you have such a strong history with because you want them to be successful as well.
On Saturday, if you didn't see and/or hear them, I had a lot of family and friends in the crowd. They loaded up a charter bus from Des Moines to make the trip. It's always fun to be able to hang out and spend time with them afterwards, too.
Rob and Sarah Simms also brought the two newest (and cutest) Bluejay fans to the game ? Olivia and Avery. They are absolutely adorable! I'm thinking of trying to convince Rob to bring them along on the next road trip.
We hit the road tomorrow around 1 p.m. after practice. We'll face off with the Sycamores of Indiana State on Thursday night, and then head to Normal to face an undefeated (in conference) and ranked Illinois State team on Saturday.
Cheer us on!
Ally
January 23, 2008
9-7 (2-3 MVC). This blogging is getting harder than I thought. After a weekend like we just had, it would be easier to just put the games behind us and move on ? but, I will stay loyal to the blog and all of you avid readers. If nothing else, it does make me think and reflect on the season and status of our team.
It was a long weekend in more ways than one. I learned that a five day road trip, 11 hour bus ride and 0-2 record don't exactly mesh well together.
We faced two good teams last weekend ? Evansville and Southern Illinois. The disappointing thing is that they were both winnable games for us. We need to get better at doing the little things ? consistently. You can't expect to win if you aren't willing to be disciplined on every possession, especially down the stretch. Lil' Woody (Kelsey) made some key shots at the end of regulation and in OT, but we couldn't hang on to the lead in the end.
Because we had two extra days in between games, there was a lot of down time. In addition to practice and watching film, we spent our time at the mall, at restaurants, at the movie theater, sleeping and studying. All of the girls and female coaches opted to see 27 Dresses ? it was really cute! You gotta love chick-flicks. I wasn't surprised that we couldn't convince Flan, Huber and Rob to see it with us.
Glad to be back at home, and anxious to get back on track. See you Thursday (vs. UNI, 7:05p.m.) and Saturday (vs. Bradley, 4:05p.m.).
Ally
January 14, 2008
9-5 (2-1 MVC). For lack of a better word ? ouch. The outcome of the Drake game wasn't exactly what we had in mind. I don't really have much of an explanation, other than we got outworked on our home floor.
When you lose, it's easy to start doubting things. Just ask my family ? at dinner after the game they allowed me twenty minutes to “vent” (I guess I didn't leave them with much of a choice). However, over the years I have learned that negativity doesn't really get you anywhere worthwhile, so I always try to look at the positive side. It's still early in the year, and we'll see Drake again in February.
The crowd at the game was amazing! Thanks for sticking with us (during the good and bad...and the ugly). We are a good basketball team, working towards becoming a great one.
Just gearing up for our first (and longest) conference road trip of the year to Evansville and Southern Illinois. Hope the freshmen are prepared for a ten plus hour bus ride.
Ally
January 10, 2008
9-4 (2-0 MVC) - We managed to take care of business at home, which is extremely important in conference play. The win against Wichita State was a result of a balanced team effort; everyone contributed. Sunday's overtime game against Missouri State got a little close...we just wanted to give all of you five more minutes of basketball to watch! The game was a perfect example of finding a way to win ? even when things aren't going your way. We came out a little flat and allowed Missouri State to gain a lead and some confidence. But as Flan reminded us at halftime, it comes down to toughness. We never gave up, which is the reason we prevailed in the end.
As far as school goes, you can imagine how thrilled we were to be back in class on Wednesday. We were all getting used to sleeping in, lounging around and eating out at nice restaurants. I guess we can't complain too much, I mean, we did come to college to get an education. This is the last semester of college for me ? kind of a scary thought, but I'm preparing myself for the real world and working on getting my future figured out. I'm just looking to enjoy it while it lasts. That's all you can really do, right?
Big rivalry game on Saturday against the Drake Bulldogs at 2:05 p.m. Don't forget to get there early for the spaghetti feed starting at noon.
Let's pack the Civic! See you there.
Ally
January 1, 2008
Happy New Year!
After enjoying a relaxed holiday at home, we all arrived back in Omaha on the 28th for practice. It was great seeing everyone again ? it's weird being apart from the people you are used to spending time with and seeing everyday. The holidays serve as another reminder of how fortunate I am to be surrounded by such great people ? teammates, coaches, family and friends ? all of which I am extremely thankful for.
Our next three games are at home, so we'll be in Omaha for a while. Right now we are preparing for our conference opener against Wichita State on Friday, followed by Missouri State on Sunday.
We had our annual Christmas party at the Huber's house yesterday after practice. The grab bag gift exchange is always entertaining! Gift cards were the popular item this year (...again!).
Can't wait to start playing games again. We're looking forward to an exciting and competitive year in the conference.
Ally
December 24, 2007
7-4. Non-conference play has come to an end, and I must say that I feel way better now than I did at this same time last year. Winning games might have something to do with it, but I also think it is the way we have been playing and coming together as a whole. When first looking at our schedule, many people question Flan's intentions. The truth is, we had a tough non-conference schedule, but still found ways to win ballgames ? at home and on the road. There were some ups and downs along the way, but I have no doubt that the 11 games we have played have made us a tougher and better basketball team. The challenge is to take what we have learned and utilize it in conference play.
For all of you avid readers, I apologize for my recent lack in blogging. Between studying for finals, Christmas shopping and traveling, it was easy to get behind in the blog ? I assure you that I will do my best to not let that happen again.
Since I am so behind, I'll try not to bore you with all of the game recaps ? here are just a couple of highlights...The thing about our team is that on any given night, someone else can step up.
Kansas
Oral Roberts ? It was great to get a win on the road, especially going into break. It was definitely a physical game, but we persevered in the end.
On behalf of myself and the Jays, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We'll all be home until we head back to
If you want a little Christmas cheer from the coaches, check out this link: http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1164128868.
Go Jays! Ho! Ho! Ho!
Ally
December 8, 2007
5-3. A much needed road win for us against the University of Denver. Although we could've played better, we played well enough to win. It was really the first time we were in a close game, so it was encouraging that we came together. We had some fun on the bus singing Christmas carols ? I'm sure the coaches loved hearing our beautiful voices on the way to the hotel. ☺
I think we have spent more time on the road than we have in Omaha this semester, or that's what it feels like at least! We're home for a little while though...we don't play again until Sunday, giving us a week to prepare for Iowa State...and study. Finals are coming up this week ? which means only five more days until Christmas break! I can't wait to put the books away for a while and relax.
If you haven't noticed, winter is officially here ? try and stay warm!!
Ally
December 1, 2007
4-3. Some highs and lows. After winning the Colorado State tournament, we seemed to hit a wall and fall apart against Kansas. We dug ourselves a hole against Nebraska, and made a comeback a little too late.
The trip to Colorado was enjoyable. After our delicious Thanksgiving meal we loaded the bus and headed west. A lot of parents and family members were able to attend, so it was a Thanksgiving with our Creighton family. The eight hour (or ten hour) drive seemed to take forever! We stopped to eat on the way, and the only place open on was a Traveler's Country Apple Truck Stop of some sort ? let's just say there were some interesting menu items... Colorado was beautiful ? mountains everywhere as opposed to the flat lands of Nebraska! The games went well. We won both of them by reasonable margins.
If there was one thing we learned from the KU game, it's that we aren't where we need to be. You can't except to let a team out to a 27-2 lead and then decide that you want to play. At the same time, one bad game doesn't mean we are a bad team. We had to learn from it, stay positive and confident, and focus on our next game against Nebraska.
Big in-state rivalry. Thanks to all of you for coming out to support us and wearing BLUE! Like I said, we got behind early ? and started making a run, but ran out of time. Sam Schuett played unbelievably well - she led the charge.
The purpose of the non-conference schedule is to challenge yourself and to play against competition that makes you better. I think that is exactly what we are doing.
We're on the road...again... Leave Tuesday for Denver to play DU. We need a win!
Ally
November 21, 2007
2-1. Overall, playing against
We begin our six-game road trip with a tournament in
Happy Thanksgiving! Safe travels and enjoy spending time with your families and friends. Thank you for all of your support.
Ally
November 11, 2007
1-0. Big win for us in terms of confidence, and a great way to start the year. We came out with a lot of energy and poise, and never looked back. Even though we had a couple of breakdowns, we remained composed and never allowed UALR completely back in the game. Thank you to all of the parents, relatives and fans who added to the positive and lively atmosphere at the Civic.
We took advantage of a Just Read opportunity on Tuesday evening at Westwood Elementary. Just Read is a service program that promotes education in grade schools through student-athletes. Children and parents divided up into groups and listened to favorite stories read by members of our team. Also, we put on a clinic Thursday at Trinity Christian School for the 8th grade girls basketball team. We encourage all of the kids and their families to attend our games ? it's always fun to see familiar faces in the crowd.
We're heading out to the east coast on Thursday to play Rutgers Friday night. Flan said it best in the locker room after the game on Saturday ? it's time to prepare to play one of the best teams in the nation.
Looking forward to the challenge.
Ally
November 6, 2007
Things haven't slowed down at all in Omaha...
After practicing for a month straight, I had forgotten how much fun it was to play in a game like atmosphere. I thought we played pretty solid in our first exhibition game. I walked away from the game feeling confident about the team and our potential. The challenge is to keep pushing each other to improve on a regular basis. No doubt we have a lot to work on. Aside from the actual game, it was also fun to show off our new uniforms and warm-ups!
On Friday, our team went out to Millard West High School to sign autographs at a middle-school tournament. Sam (Millard West graduate) was quite the celebrity! I don't think there was a person in the building who didn't recognize her. Of course, Sam remained modest...as usual.
Saturday was the 21st Annual Bluejay Jamboree, a major fundraiser for the athletics department ? it was a blast! The Old Gym was elaborately decorated and filled with auction items, athletes, coaches, administration and Jay supporters. It's a great chance to interact with the people who support Creighton athletics, and show them our appreciation. I'm sure the biggest trouble for them was recognizing who we were ? dresses and high heels look a little different than our uniforms!
Let the season begin! First game: Saturday, 2:05 p.m. vs. Arkansas-Little Rock at the Civic.
Go Jays!
Ally
October 30, 2007
Planes, trains and automobiles...
Today was Media Day for the Missouri Valley Conference, held in St. Louis. It was a fun, yet quick trip. Flan picked up Sara and me up at 5:30 a.m. and we returned back to Omaha at around 4 p.m. Sports Information Directors, Rob Simms and Rob Anderson, in addition to Coach Altman and Dane Watts were in attendance as well. It felt like we spent about as much time traveling as we did at the actual event.
We are ranked #6 in the preseason polls ? do with this information as you wish. Personally, I don't read a lot into the polls...it's just a number; teams haven't even started playing yet. With that being said, it does serve as motivation for the season and the chance to prove ourselves.
The general consensus among coaches and players on the women's side was enthusiasm and eagerness to start non-conference play. Numerous coaches commented on the balance of competition in the conference, which will no doubt lead to an exciting year.
As far as community involvement goes, Saturday was the wheelchair basketball game against the Red Dawgs. This is an annual event that our team has participated in for a number of years, and something we look forward to. The Red Dawgs beat us (again), and remain undefeated!
Up next for the Jays: First exhibition game ? Central Missouri, Thursday (November 1) at 5:00 p.m. at the Qwest Center. Hope to see you there!
Ally
October 22, 2007
Back to the real world of classes, studying and the sound of an alarm clock...
We had an eventful day on Saturday. Roughly 30 prospective high-school recruits and their parents came to campus for “Junior Day.” They were hopefully able to gain a sense of life as a college athlete after watching practice, going on a campus tour and conversing with members of our team, the coaching staff and athletic department.
Other than that, not much is new here ? still lifting, practicing and working to get better. After nine straight days of practice, Flan was kind enough to give us the day off on Sunday ? and believe me, it was very much appreciated!
I think it's about time for basketball season to begin...people are starting to get irritable around here because of the Husker football downfall.
Ally
October 16, 2007
Fall Break is wonderful for the following reasons (in no specific order):
Team bonding.
Practice.
No classes.
Being able to sleep in and catch up on the Zzzzz's.
Great meals at restaurants/alumni houses.
Did I mention no classes?
In all seriousness, I do think it is great that the first week of practice coincides with Fall Break. It allows us to be able to focus on basketball, in addition to having some down time, which helps make the transition into school less stressful. Other than some bumps and bruises, and being a little sore, we survived the first few days of practice! In order to be successful, we must work to improve on a daily basis ? and that is one of the goals we will be determined to meet this year.
Today was the official groundbreaking ceremony of The Ryan Athletics Center and D.J. Sokol Arena ? an exciting day in the Creighton community and for women's athletics! I cannot say enough about the generosity of the Ryans, the Sokols, and all those who have supported Creighton athletics and made this new facility possible. Thank you!
Ally
October 10, 2007
Mid-terms week means one thing at Creighton ? you are that much closer to enjoying Fall Break and an entire week of no class! Only a couple more days to go ...
Congrats to the newlyweds ? Steve and (assistant coach) Jenny Vickers! I wasn't at the wedding last Friday night, but heard it was a fun time. Great music, food and company. There were also a lot of Bluejays in attendance. I haven't seen Burns since the big day, but I need to inform her that I may have trouble with the transition from calling her Burns to calling her Vickers.
Other than that excitement, pretty much all of our team took full advantage of what we call “go home weekend.” We had the day off on Friday, and the coaches encourage us to go home for some family time. I think it's the last time we'll be able to go home until Christmas. There's nothing like hanging out with the fam, sleeping in your own bed, having your mom do your laundry and eating home cooked meals!
The team sessions have been going good ? a lot of learning and fundamentals.
First official practice: Friday at 7 p.m.
Hope to see you all at Morning Madness on Saturday!
Ally
October 1, 2007
October already? Well, you know how the saying goes - time flies when you're having fun...and playing basketball.
Last Thursday was the “Meet the Jays” event at Jobbers Canyon in the Old Market. It was a great way to kick off the season, and have a chance to talk with parents, fans and boosters. On behalf of myself and the team, I want to extend my thanks to all who were in attendance, and to those who couldn't make it, we're looking forward to seeing you soon! Flan mentioned something about getting his yelling voice ready for practice... Wish us luck!
At Creighton, one of the traditions during Homecoming Week is the golf cart parade that takes place on the mall (the central walkway that runs through campus). Although our golf cart wasn't decorated as elaborate as other carts, we proudly represented Jays basketball in the parade on Friday. I haven't heard who took first place yet...maybe they're still trying to contact us. I wouldn't be surprised if our cart was disqualified due to reckless driving and improper management of a motor vehicle. Let's just say Voss went a little crazy behind the wheel.
Looks like we have one last weekend of freedom before we are under the control of Flan and the coaching staff. I'll let you all know how it goes. Geez, it's only been three weeks and I'm starting to feel like an official blogger!
Ally
September 26, 2007
What a wonderful fall week in Omaha! And a busy one too... Between alumni weekend, family weekend and soccer games, Creighton campus was full of activity.
As far as basketball goes, I would say that overall, workouts have been going well. We have been lifting, conditioning and playing pick-up as a team, in addition to having individual workouts in groups of about two to four girls. Next week we will begin team sessions ? which allow the chance for our entire team and coaching staff to workout as a whole before official practices start.
On Saturday morning, our team participated in the Jay Walk event ? a 5k run around campus. What sounded like a good idea to me at the time of registration was questioned a little bit on race day, when alarms went off at 7:30 a.m. Turns out that we don't have a lot of early birds on our team ... including myself! But after crossing the finish line, attitudes were positive ? it was a fun event to do as a team, and I think that everyone was glad we participated. The overall team winner? Flan! And he even took a four block detour.
With a recruit in town, the team spent a majority of the weekend together. Flan had everyone over on Sunday for dinner and a scavenger hunt.
Thus concludes another week at Creighton. I can't believe practice is just around the corner!
Ally
September 17, 2007
Ally
