Jymyn vahvistukset ovat lähteneet takaisin rapakon taakse, tässä Andie Malloyn tunnelmia kauden jälkeen Suomesta, Mestaruusliigasta sekä Jymyn toiminnasta.
Before I came to Finland the only things I knew about it were that the people are very friendly, coffee is a popular drink of choice, it is REALLY cold and the northern lights. I quickly discovered the White Tree Cafe in Seinäjoki and visited at least once a week – they have amazing cakes and coffee drinks. For me that reminded me of home because I go to cute little coffee shops like that one all the time at home. Since I’m from Texas this weather was (and still is) hard for me to get used to – so you could say I miss the Texas heat a little bit.
I was very impressed with the level of competition in the Finnish league. Coming from Germany last season I didn’t quite know what to expect since all countries have a very different style of play. I have loved playing volleyball at the professional level in both countries for many different reasons. Every game was always a test and I loved the challenge. We went through a lot of ups and downs as a team this season but I couldn’t have gotten through it with any other group of girls. The girls of all ages that I was surrounded by on a daily basis helped make the experience really great for me. These are friendships that I will have for a very long time. I’m also very grateful for the supportive fans, and the staff of the club that would always go above and beyond to make sure that I was taken care of and felt welcomed.
While I do wish that I had come in August so I could have started training with the team sooner, I’m so grateful that I was able to come at all. Teemu the strength coach helped us to maintain our strength throughout the whole season – he really knew what he was doing and helped me to play at my best come game day. I really appreciate all that he did for us and the awesome warm-ups that he would lead.
Kari and Eevis are two of the kindest people I have ever met. I appreciate all of the sacrifices they made for this team. They always approached each day with a smile and a positive spirit.
The people I have had the pleasure of meeting in Finland have become a second family to me and while this season didn’t end quite like we had hoped, I’m hanging on to the wonderful memories that were made here!
Miss you already!
Hugs,
Andie