He's not the senior member of the team but he does have the most on-court experience. We're counting on Mitch a lot to lead us.

Alfred was fantastic at the Olympic training center this summer. We were fortunate to have him come and share his energy and skills. He is a marvelous defensive player and his competitive spirit infused our practice sessions with fire and joy.

But we really focus on what we can control -- namely, our effort and improving each day.

We had lost some matches and needed to try something different. We were extremely hopeful and enthusiastic about the way he handled it. He just came to practice and worked really hard, to his credit. That's what a coach wants to see.

You'd rather have someone come in and groom them for at least a year or so. It was extremely difficult on Mitch. To his credit, in public he never winced. You never know what's in someone's heart and mind, but outwardly he showed he was very tough.

Last year was a good experience, but we want to go to the states again this year. Me and my teammates all trust each other. I trust them to get me past the line, and they trust me to do my job once I get past it.