Saturday, August 24, 2013

August 24th, 2013- Danielle Padovano

Today's blog comes from Danielle Padovano, a freshman forward who tallied eight points today against the Fijian National Team.  Read all about the Rams' exploits below.

                                     Fordham and the Fijian National Team come together after the welcome ceremony

Bula! It was an amazing moment this morning waking up to the bright sun and warm Fiji air.

Birds chirping, the Rams started our morning with a delicious poolside breakfast before leaving for a customary welcoming ceremony. We took a trip to the opposite side of the island where we were greeted by one of Coach Gaitley's former players, Val, and her teammates from the Fiji Womens National team.

A part of Fiji custom, all women have to wear floor length  skirts provided by our new friends.

The celebration was led by the chief of their village and included participation by the entire Fordham coaching staff. It was so kind and generous of our new Fiji friends to share their culture with us. An experience I will never forget.

The next event for the Rams was a clinic with the youth of a local village. The children were so eager to learn and happy to be spending their time outside with their friends and the Fordham players. Their excitement was tangible and brought smiles to everyone around.

After the clinic, the Rams had to prepare for their game against the Fiji National team on the outdoor court. The team was a physical force but ultimately, the game ended with a Rams win. The game provided many lessons we can take back to Rose Hill as we move forward into preparing for our season.

The day concluded with a Fordham- Fiji dinner that was a very close rival to the Rooney family meal.

We are so lucky to be so loved by everyone surrounding us and are always excited to expand our Fordham family.

We are looking forward to celebrating this amazing trip with each other these last few days which won't be so hard with what the beautiful country of Fiji has to offer us.

I am extremely thankful for this experience and very proud to be a Ram!

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