ONE MORE TIME!

Seeing that GLEE is all the "rage" now a days, it seems only fitting that a theme of this game is "Hit me Baby One More Time" from the Pop sensation herself Britney Spears (had a whole episode dedicated to her this sesason).

I had the true honor and pleasure of seeing most of the girls selected in this years All Star Game play in person, and am just still amazed at their talent level. When area sports writers and columnists contributed to the full list of coaches/players to be part of the team, it just game me such a joy to think about what is in store Next Monday Night!!!

A side note but important thought to keep in mind is that this game's proceeds are going toward charity, which is something that should not be overlooked. A SILVER LINING FOUNDATION is a wonderful charity that assists in breast cancer awareness.

Back to the game, (HIT ME BABY...) It will be a display the likes of which have never been seen. LITERALLY there has never really been a HS ALL STAR GAME for Volleyball in the state of IL. Hopefully with this game's success it can expand to next year. BUT not to overlook the inaugural game.

A bit of a quick Hx Lesson (history for those not in the medical field) on the conception of the game...

I was driving home from a late night game at Cary-Grove HS (they beat McHenry in 2) and my driving buddy and Color Commentator "Mighty" Matt Malich were joking that we should have a "friendly" scrimmage of our SportsTownChicago.com staff vs. a team like Cary-Grove or Wheaton St. Francis and film it as a joke piece for our website. Well after the nearly hour long drive and then a sleepless night of running thoughts (even though I really can't run in real life) it hit me...an All-Star Game! I am not really meant to do any physical activity, let alone get a face lift from a VONDERHAAR spike. So let me stick to what I (pretend to) do best...do a play by play announcement of the game and let the girls display their skills.

A week later my trusty student "A-Lo" Alex Locicero mentioned the concept of the game to the head coach of Marist high school Mrs. H and she said it was a great idea if it can be pulled off...SOOOOOOO that more or less leads us to today...a few days before the BIG GAME...which I am very thoroughly excited for!

To the girls at this point, I wish you the best of luck (not that they need any luck from my un-athletic self). Have fun and remember that you are representing yourself, your family, and your school! And they couldn't be prouder...