Croatia Blog: Meg Henican
May 27, 2008 | Women's Volleyball
May 27, 2008
Being in a place where the only words you know are "hi/bye" and various body parts makes for some interesting conversation with the locals. We just finished day three of our Croatian adventure and though I wouldn't quite call myself fluent, I can now order coffee with milk so I figure I'm set for the rest of the trip.
Although I haven't quite conquered the language, I have learned several things about Croatia, our team, and myself.
For example, I learned that the necktie originated in Croatia, yet one of our very own (hint: the only member of the coaching staff who would wear a tie and is from Croatia) still has his wife tie his. During today's excursion to TrakoÂ?ćan Castle, located in the Croatian Highlands region, I got a glimpse into the aristocratic life and history of this area. Here are a few other interesting facts about the castle:
- TrakoÂ?ćan got its name because it looks like a dragon. Drako is derived from the Latin word for dragon, draco, and stayn which is German stein or stone.
- The castle was built at the end of the 13th century to control borders and important routes in the area.
- The restored and presented rooms encompass almost 1200 square meters.
- It was one of the first structures in this area of Croatia to have electricity.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I have learned that I most definitely need to move someplace where they serve chocolate for breakfast!
In today's match we competed against a collection of some of the top players in Zagreb, pulled from three different teams around the city. It wasn't our finest performance skill-wise, but the girls are learning that to be a top team they must be ready to compete at a high level, whatever the circumstance or environment.
I really think this experience will prove to be beneficial in helping us reach the lofty goals we have set for the fall, and I know they will take what they can from the play today and be ready to go for tomorrow's matches!
Roll Wave! Bok!
-Meg Henican
