Speedgirls serve up midnight volleyball practice

BESSEMER - The Bessemer volleyball team started its first practice of the season at the earliest time possible Wednesday.

Midnight.

Practice for sports other than football opened in Michigan Wednesday. For the first time that morning, the Speedgirls went to the House of Noise at midnight and practiced for 2.5 hours before sleeping at the gym.

"We're young, so last night was pretty much focused on team bonding, unity," Bessemer coach Shelly Mettler said. "It was more games to support each other, be supportive. It worked out. It was a good night. I didn't get much sleep, but it was a good night."

It wasn't just a gimmick. The players were excited for the start of the season and Mettler liked the intensity of the practice.

"It was kind of funny, the games they played, there were a lot of skills, there was a lot of conditioning as well, they actually had a good workout," Mettler said. "I don't think they realized until it was over, 'Wow, we're tired.'"

Mettler said she'd be open to doing that again because it went very well.

"It was easier on the players than the coaches, the time of practice," she said. "It was fun. They were so excited. I don't know if they were more excited for the volleyball season or because it was midnight. Maybe both. They had lots of energy; now if we can keep it going."

Bessemer had 23 players for the practice and now will build toward the season opener on Aug. 27 at home against Dollar Bay. The Speedgirls have one senior and the vast majority of players are underclassmen.

"The younger girls seem very competitive, so it's nice to see what's coming up," Mettler said. "It's nice to see last night what's coming up with the underclassmen. They have a good future in front of them, I think, as long as they stay focused and keep working hard."