University of North Carolina Athletics
Heels In Holland: Chapter 5
June 5, 2014 | Field Hockey
Chapter 5: Lauren Moyer, Sam Night, Casey Di Nardo, Rachel Black
June 4
Hello to all of our loyal followers. Today was quite adventurous, and we have a lively update for you about all of our activities. The morning started off with breakfast, a light four croissants accompanied by the unknown, yet delicious, purple substance called quark.
After a bus ride consisting of a team-wide nap and Sudoku frenzy led by the always-active Jess Pereira, we arrived in the quaint village of Volendam. We were immediately greeted by a tour guide dressed in traditional Dutch fisherman garb. At first we were anxious about his pirate attire, but after his offering of apple pie and coffee, tensions were eased considerably. Rumors about a boat tour were flying at our second breakfast of the day. Moyer, usually ecstatic to the point of tears about free pie, was crying tears of a different kind as she explained to us her serious fear of boats.
We made our way to a three-story ferry and boarded the upper deck, with Moyer and several of her companions (all of whom were tragically born without their sea legs) remaining downstairs. The ferry took us to the neighboring island of Marken, where were took a brief walking tour with our pirate friend leading the way. Strength and Conditioning Coach Steve Gisselman was especially enthralled by the island, particularly by the group of sheep that he kindly greeted with a "Hey, guys," as though they were old friends.
The highlight of Marken was learning about the island's unique history and how it has developed over the years. After returning to Volendam once again, we had an activity-packed afternoon, visiting several local factories and shops. After our third meal of the day (lunch), we visited a diamond store, where we learned about the 4 "Cs" of diamond craftsmanship - cut, clarity, color, and carat. Dreams of wedding bells danced throughout the Tar Heels' heads while we browsed the custom rings in the store. Luckily, a catfight was avoided when assistant coach Teryn Brill was the recipient of the raffle prize, a small diamond worth 45 Euros.
We concluded the tour of Volendam with a team picture in traditional Dutch attire, which gave everyone a good laugh. Oliver Fulton looked extremely dapper, and he was able to win best dressed in his tiny jacket and hat. However, the best stop of the afternoon was the cheese farm and wooden shoe factory, where we were able to sample over 10 kinds of cheese, watch a clog maker fashion a shoe in two minutes, and shop for souvenirs.
Despite tired legs and bellies full of cheese (a winning combination if we have ever seen one), we picked up the energy for a practice in preparation for our game tomorrow. The coaches were happy with the intensity level of practice, highlighted by Nina Notman taking a ball to the cheekbone. Moyer, finishing off a wonderful day, was taken down by a hit to the foot, obliterating her big toe. Luckily, both Heels were troopers and should be back in action tomorrow. Injuries aside, we concluded practice with dinner at the hockey club and, finally, boarded the bus to return to Leiden. Today was by far the most eventful day, and we look forward to the second half of our trip. Until next time, loyal Tar Heels!
Much love,
Moyer, Rachel, Casey, and Snight
