Aug. 8, 2009

The citizens of Taipei were not the only ones who "weathered the storm" yesterday.

The USA Women's National team began fighting off Typhoon Morakot that morning during what was planned as a serve and pass session. Once the warm up began, the team found the practice to be more of a "slip and pass" and the court conditions more suitable for hockey due to the thick humidity and ceiling leakage caused by the incredible amounts of rainfall.

Following practice, the team became even closer to the typhoon's strength as they waited outside the gymnasium in the fierce winds for the bus to arrive. Tracy Stalls gave the team a chuckle as she pulled her bright yellow poncho overhead and pretended to be Jim Cantore from the Weather Channel reporting in the midst of the strong winds and piercing raindrops.

Later that afternoon, the team once again fought off another storm as they defeated the Dominican Republic in an exciting five set match, fighting off several match points in the fifth set.

Opening ceremonies followed the match and the team enjoyed a presentation by a local high school's cheer squad and a welcoming speech from members of the FIVB.

Just as the team thought was the last of the "storms," Typhoon Morakot brought more howling winds, interrupting the night time peace. Tomorrow the Netherlands will bring yet another storm as the U.S. prepares to weather another important match of the 2009 World Grand Prix.

Christa Harmotto