Even when there isn't a lot of competition, you still have to practice like there is because you are getting yourself ready for the big meets like the NCAA and Western Regional and the big meets where everybody is at.

We face our toughest competition on Tuesday and Wednesday [in practice]. I don't think there's anyone out there who can stop us.

We have a lot more competition in practice this year. They have bonded real well. That's easy for you or me to say, but it's not always easy for kids competing for the same position. The way we have approached it is that we have five move-ins ... let's get to work.

It was good competition for her. She's been getting 5-8 in practice. We've been working 5-8, 5-9, 5-10. She's got no fear at that height. She's used to jumping it.

It's great to practice more, but it's just as important to face real competition. Playing week-to-week isn't what I'd describe as the way to go in a sport like volleyball. This isn't football. In my opinion, not playing hurts us.

There's some nicks and bruises, but nothing that should keep anyone out of practice.