October 20th, 2005

Ironically, Phil Ibarra feels like a lotto winner. And it's not because his Saint Martin's volleyball team is closing in on a conference championship. Actually, the Saints are winless, zip-and-13 heading into tonight's match at Seattle University.

Two weeks ago, when his team dipped to six players because of three injuries and a departure, he held an on-campus all-comers tryout to fill out the roster, adding three players with limited volleyball backgrounds.

It was another setback to overcome.

"By not winning, there could be a lot of turmoil," Ibarra said. "But I see them playing with heart each game. They continue to give it everything they have. I look into their eyes and I see determination. They haven't quit. You've got to admire that."

Each practice day is a contradiction to Saint Martin's record.

Earlier this week, Ibarra, in his first year as Saint Martin's head volleyball coach, put his team through another sweaty practice. There was excitement. Intensity. There was a sense of commitment. Lisa Hall, along with a couple of other players, had arrived early.

Energy-reading meters would have been off the dial.

"I refer to them as my energizing bunnies," Ibarra said. "They never stop."

But it's not because a playoff spot is within reach. In 13 matches, they've won just one game and lost 39. In conference matches, they're 0-for-21.

"But you know what," the contagiously optimistic Ibarra said. "They haven't quit. I love the heart of this team." Winning inspires. Losing deflates.

Winning brings dividends. Losing bankrupts.

Knowing that, Ibarra feels so fortunate to coach a team of Rocky Balboas.

 "It's not like I dread going to practice each day," he said. "I love it. I love these kids. They aren't losers because they haven't quit."

Naturally, Ibarra would prefer winning. But he's certain that day will come.

"Give me three years," he said.

Keanna Morrisey, Morgan Lee, Kirstin Bautista and Hall have all endured the losing.

"Winning is easy," Ibarra said. "Fighting back after a loss is the true test. It's really been inspirational to watch these girls work hard every practice."

Courtesy of The Olympian