The team took in the Vancouver Art Museum Saturday

Aug. 31, 2008

PHOTO GALLERY

By Nic Hallisey
Athletic Media Relations

VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- Sitting on the rooftop patio of the local Red Robin, teammates and coaches laughed, cracked jokes with each other and played a game, naming who they believed was the best athlete for each number.

When they got stuck at No. 11, Head Coach Tim Miles jokingly threw his name out there, referring to his high school number.

Earlier in the day, the coaches had a friendly, 6-mile bike race around Stanley Lake. When the players poked fun at the coaches for their fashion styles, the coaches threw it right back at them by attacking their style of sunglasses.

The weekend goal of team chemistry seems to be building already.

"These trips are always great for bonding and getting these guys together and learning about each other," Miles said. "This is a high-energy group that really enjoys being together and always has a lot of fun."

On a crisp Vancouver morning, the team set off to do some shopping and sightseeing across the city. The traveling included visiting the sculptures and fountains outside of the Vancouver Art Museum and multiple children asking for the players' autographs.

The Rams will continue their foreign tour Saturday night with their first game, against University College of The Fraser Valley.

"This is about competition and learning how to grind a little bit," Miles said. "I'm looking to see a different mentality than we've seen in the last year."

Miles explained that becoming better is a process, but that this weekend gives the team an early opportunity to learn more about where it's at.

"We're excited and ready to get out there and start playing," Miles said. "This will give us a chance to see who shines."

Company

The Rams aren't the only U.S. men's team traveling to Vancouver this weekend. Also staying in the same hotel are Cal State Fullerton and Tulsa. Baylor's women's team also is on the property.

Finally

Assistant coach DeMarlo Slocum got his luggage back this afternoon after the airlines lost it during the flight. His luggage arrived shortly before the team left for its first game.