The Diary of Andrew Lane

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June 17

I originally intended to be writing this journal at the end of the day. It’s actually taken me a few days to finish the journal. I began to write it a bit after we came back to the hotel from our loss, and found myself staring at a blank screen trying to put words to the disappointment that I felt.

Instead of telling you how the day began and all the small details, such as us leaving for Miami at 7:00 am, I thought that I could provide some insight to what a special experience this has been. Coach Morris had us ready to play, and unfortunately we weren’t able to pull it out. He’s a great coach and we all would have love to have won it for him.

Following our loss to Texas, we all left Rosenblatt Stadium and head towards the bus. Before we could get to the bus, we were met with hugs and handshakes from the parents, fans and event opponent fans that were at the game that evening. Some wanted autographs. Others wanted pictures. Most were telling us how we were a young team that would be returning to claim the crown next year. And you know what? They’re right. For the most part, this entire team will be returning. Having that one win under our belts will leave us hungry for more. It was more than just one win at the College World Series. I want to bring home the title to Miami.

Our experience in Omaha will give us the drive and desire necessary to prepare in the off-season. I plan on taking a couple of weeks off to rest and relax, and then my preparations will begin for next season. I plan on working on some pitches, my location and doing all that I can to help this team reach our ultimate goal next year…the 2004 National Championship.

It has been a pleasure writing this journal for you. It was my hope that you would gain some insight to our experiences here in Omaha, Nebraska. If you’ve never been to a College World Series, I would recommend that you make the trip. It is unlike any place I’ve ever been.

I’d also like to thank the fans that supported us all season long. After every game, whether it was a win or a loss, we could count on our fans to greet us as we came off the field. It always felt good to be greeted with a smile regardless of the outcome.

I once had a little leaguer asking me how important was it to me to play college baseball at Miami. I told him that it was too special to put into words. Well, I came across this quote the other day and it expressed what I had been hoping to day all long.

“A ballplayer spends a good piece of his life gripping a baseball, and in the end it turns out that it was the other way around all the time.”–Jim Bouton, NY Yankees

Andrew Lane, #17