Sleep Is Optional

Jake Diebler, a former men's basketball player at Valparaiso, is now a Student Assistant Coach for the Crusaders, and a men's basketball correspondent for the HLN Blog.

Well it's that time of year!!! I know I am very thankful just to have had a couple days off so I could see my family. Both my brothers, who are currently playing college basketball, were able to make it home. It was the first time I had seen them since August. Christmas at the Diebler house was special, as my wife and I celebrated our first Christmas together. We drove all over Ohio and Indiana so we could see both of our families, but made sure to find time to cherish each other.

The Crusaders have had a rough two game stretch. We are learning how tough it is to win on the road, but our guys continue to battle and compete. I'm finding out how tough coaching is as well. The biggest adjustment I have had to make is the lack of sleep. As a player, I spent all kinds of time in the gym working on my game. But that doesn't compare to the time I currently spend studying film on our team, and opposing teams. I can assure you that I don't sleep near as much as a coach; which is taking some getting used to. I used to go to bed pretty early, and loved that routine, so you can imagine the adjustment it has been now that I'm getting about three less hours of sleep each night. I must admit though, I love every waking moment of it. I keep trying to find ways I can help our team improve, but in different ways than I used to. Then, I was in the action and taking part first-hand...now I'm relegated to the sidelines.

As the 2010 approaches, we are really preparing to get into this grueling conference schedule. Thankfully, we are at home New Year's Eve and January 2, but the Wisconsin schools are very tough. Our fans have been great so far this year, and we will definitely need their support this weekend.

Have a blessed rest of 2009. I will most remember my loved ones, and those final playing days in the ARC, in front of the best fans in the conference. Until next time, GO VALPO!!!!!