Don't Wait---Nominate!

This season is flying by, isn't it? Seemed like just yesterday that we had an Auction--which was before Thanksgiving! Coming up real soon is the annual Fan Appreciation day on Saturday, February 21. This is a day to honor FBCers and volunteers at the Post Game tent.

There is always one very special presentation of the Margie Santillian Fan Spirit Award. This award was established in memory Margie, one of the original Uber Boosters for the WBB program. Margie was supremely dedicated to all things Cardinal and it is SO fitting that this award bears her name.

I have told this story before, but here is an example of Margie's fandom--we once traveled to Oregon State for the game. We were quite rushed and only had time to pick up tacos from a drive-thru before the game. This was when OSU was our main competitor in the PAC 10 and we were tense. But the Cardinal prevailed! After that, Margie insisted that we all eat tacos before every game until there was a game was lost. Wouldn't you know that a long winning streak would follow? It took me a long time before I could look a taco in the eye!

So what's the award all about?

This award is presented annually to a member of the Fast Break Club who has enthusiastically supported the team and coaching staff during the basketball season, participated in some volunteer aspect of the Fast Break Club, promoted camaraderie among the boosters,
solicited new game attendees, season ticket holders and Fast Break Club members, and
attended one or more away games (not including Cal or any other Bay Area locations).

Do you know someone deserving of this award? Let the Selection Committee know before February 6th! Submit your nomination by email to Jackie Anderson, or speak to her at a game or post-game tent before the 6th.

Last year's winners, Dave and Marian Cortesi, are pictured above. And I am proud to say I am a past winner as well. Nothing has ever honored me more.

Tara's Coaching Tree

With last week's visits by the Washington schools and their respective head coaches, it got me to wondering about how many coaches are a product of Tara's teachings. Spending a little time with the FBC Alumni site and remembering some stuff on my own, I have compiled a pretty impressive list! Any way you look at it, our Hall of Fame coach continues to have a large effect on the Game!

Former Players

Jennifer Azzi owns Azzi Training, a company that offers online personal coaching, basketball training camps, and Wellness Days around the country

Ann Adkins Enthoven was an assistant coach at Stanford

Christina Batastini was an assistant coach at Brown University for a season and is the president and head instructor of the Batastini School of Basketball in Providence, R.I.

Leslie Crandell was an assistant men's basketball coach at Westmont College for two seasons

Milena Flores is an assistant coach at Princeton and has been assistant coach at University of Pacific, Lehigh and Yale

Regen Freuen is coach of the girls' basketball team at Mead High School in Spokane, WA.

Molly Goodenbour is head coach at UC Irvine, after two years as head coach at Chico State, a year as assistant coach at the University of San Francisco and three years as head Coach at Santa Rosa Junior College

Tara Harrington was an assistant coach at Cal State Northridge and Montana State-Bozeman

Anita Kaplan was an assistant coach at Santa Clara

Bobbie Kelsey is an assistant coach at Stanford and has coached basketball at Virginia Tech, Western Carolina, Evansville, Florida, and Boise State

Vanessa Nygaard is an assistant coach for the WNBA Washington Mystics after coaching with the San Antonio Silver Stars and Pepperdine

Kate Paye is an assistant coach at Stanford and was assistant coach at Pepperdine University and San Diego State

Martha Richards is head women's golf coach at the University of Texas

Olympia Scott is the founder of A Wonderful Life! Coaching, a life coach, motivational speaker and author

Charmin Smith is an assistant coach at Cal, after three years as assistant coach at Stanford, and a year at Boston College

Katy Steding is an assistant coach of the WNBA Atlanta Dream and was head coach at Warner Pacific College

Trisha Stevens was head coach at Boise State for six years, after being assistant coach for three years

Angela Taylor is Vice-President and General Manager of the WNBA Washington Mystics and was an assistant coach at Texas A&M, the University of Arizona, and at Stanford for two seasons

Charli Turner Thorne has been head coach at Arizona State since 1996

Val Whiting owns GameShape, a sports performance training facility

Lindsey Yamasaki is head women's basketball coach at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco

Jill Yanke coached basketball at Boise State

Former Assistant Coaches

Beth Burns is head coach at San Diego State

June Daugherty is head coach at Washington State after a long stint at UW

Tia Jackson is head coach of the Washington Huskies

Carolyn Jenkins is an assistant coach with the Minnesota Lynx

Julie Plank is the head coach of the Washington Mystics

Karen Middleton is an assistant coach at Illinois

Julie Rousseau is head coach at Pepperdine

In the Tarasphere

Dawn Staley is head coach at South Carolina and has attributed much of her coaching success the lessons learned as a member of the 1996 Olympic team

Nikki McCray and Carla McGhee are both assistants to Dawn at USC

Teresa Edwards has coached in both the ABL and WNBA

Heidi VanDerveer is head basketball coach at Occidental College

Did I miss anyone? I thought about Marianne Stanley too,

but she pretty much stands on her own as far as coaching is concerned!

So how lucky are we to watch as each season unfolds with

this Legend on our sidelines?

A Holiday Poem

Twas the night before Christmas
And in Cardinal Town
Everyone was feeling
A little bit down

“We lost to the Dukies
And those darned Lady Vols
We certainly don’t feel much
Like Decking the Halls!”

But Santa was ready
For such loss of spirit
“Don’t be so whiny!
I don’t want to hear it!”

“You’ve Ros, Jeanette, Jayne,
Lindy, Hannah and Mel
And you shouldn’t forget
Kayla, Jillian and Michelle!”

“Add Sarah, Ashley, Morgan,
Nneka, JJ and Grace.
Now that is a group
To bring a smile to your face!’

“You’ve got the best Coaches
In all of the land
And then not to mention
The Tree and the Band!”

“So do not despair
As all will be fine!
It’s not 2008 that counts
But April 2009!”

With that the skies opened
And all did rejoice
We can’t help but love them!
We just have no choice!

So get ready for wins galore
They’ll soon be in sight
Merry Christmas to All
And to All a good night!

Greetings from Charleston, SC

Have been spending a couple of days here in Charleston between games. It is 78 degrees here and 90% humidity--a fact I am all too aware of having packed a suitcase full of turtlenecks and sweaters. This is such a lovely city. What a difference from Durham, NC!

Durham was dark, foggy and depressing--and that was before the game! While I am sure it is lovely at times of the year, right now is not one of those times. Some of the buildings on campus are magnificent, including Cameron Indoor Arena. There is one major flaw for spectators, however, as there are no aisles in the lower stands so you are being crawled over continuously. This was no so bad when we were ahead, but my crabby quotient kept going up exponentially as the game moved on.

We had a hearty group of parents and FBCers on hand--we sat with Grace's dad and loved his upbeat attitude and major lung power. Cameron gets REALLY loud--think Mac Court loud, tin roof and all. The game was really ugly as you saw, though I suspect you didn't get to see some of the "finer" moments. Right in front of us, Jill shot a three and got clobbered--Dee Kantner was withing 3 feet of her, but was watching the shot and didn't see it. Jill hobbled down court and had to go out for a significant period of time--scary, scary stuff considering her back issues.

But the story was free throws, as we all know. So onward and upward. Off to Columbia to take on the other USC, a day in Asheville and then to Knoxville.

How'd We Do???

I have been remiss in reporting our Cardinal Nation Auction results--just that busy life getting in the way. I wanted to do a grand report with pictures and kudos and such, but am hopping on a plane in a couple of hours to head back east for a GREAT ROAD TRIP! So this short and sweet version will have to do for now!

Thanks to great donors, ambitious bidders and tireless volunteers, we raised

$35,515!!!!

Now this is a little less than the average of $40K that we have pocketed in the past, but with the current economic situation, who could feel bad about this FAB amount?

So off to the Southeast and will work real hard to bring home 3 wins and a bunch of stories!

In a Daze

Auction Day is always one big blur--and yesterday was no different. Want to thank everyone for buying and volunteering and just being there. As soon as we get some info and brain cells, I will post more info.

My thoughts today, however, are with JJ and her family. While we wait for the MRI results, here's hoping that we see JJ back on the floor as soon as possible. A speedy recovery is my wish for her today, whatever the injury turns out to be.

All of our positive thoughts should be with JJ today--send them her way!

Is there a BIG TICKET in your Future?

We're in the final countdown to the CARDINAL NATION Auction--Sunday, November 23. We have over 200 ITEMS up for your bidding pleasure--all sorts of Stanford gear, restaurant certificates and on and on.

But there are always a few EXTRA special items that might suit your fancy. We call them BIG TICKET items. You can see the complete list here but here are a few for your special attention--

Sit on the Bench for the Tennessee Game in 2009--Remember the thrilling win against Tennessee at Maples in 2007? You can have the best seat in the house for the Encore next season. Game date is still TBD, but plan now for this terrific opportunity to see the Cardinal and Lady Vols, up-close and personal! You'll be right there to catch all of the emotion as you are part of the action as you join the team in pre-game introductions, game huddles, halftime and post-game too! Per NCAA rules, 9th through 12th graders not allowed to participate.

A Day in the Life--Prepare for the day when your youngster goes to Stanford! This item will give them the chance to spend a day on campus with several Stanford players and see what it takes to make the grade! Attend classes, workouts and whatever else is going on that day. This is truly a once on the lifetime opportunity for any child. Per NCAA rules, 9th through 12th graders not allowed to participate.

Kid's Clinic--Plan a special day for up to 12 kids as they go through drills to learn basketball skills from selected Stanford coaches and players in Maples Pavilion! This would be a very special gift for the youngster in your life that loves the game. And what would make a better birthday party than this? Per NCAA rules, 9th through 12th graders not allowed to participate.

Lunch with the Coaching Staff--Join the whole staff for lunch at Jimmy V's Sports Cafe in the Arrillaga Family Center. Get the inside scoop on all things Cardinal. Group size can be up to 20 people and everyone buys their own meal.

Sit at Tara's Table at the Awards Banquet--Join Coach Tara at the annual Team Awards Banquet! This package includes cost of dinner and two prime seats for all of the action.

Canon EOS 40D Digital Camera--The EOS 40D combines Canons tremendous know-how in both the digital and photographic worlds, creating a camera that not only does everything one would expect of a traditional digital SLR, but one that incorporates staggering leaps forward in technological innovation. With new features like Canons EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Live View Function, a more powerful DIGIC III Image Processor, plus a 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, a 3.0-inch LCD monitor and more, the EOS 40D elevates digital photography to new heights, enhancing the shooting experience, and delivering images one could only expect from a Canon.

Music by Hookslide--Just having performed at the San Francisco Black and White Ball and the National Anthem at Candlestick Park, Hookslide is sure to make any event you have extra, extra special. This vocal band performs a high energy mix of mind blowing vocal percussion, booming bass and screaming four-part harmony that is guaranteed to knock you out! In addition to corporate events for customers such as Anheuser Busch, Palm, and Macy's, Hookslide has performed for both the Oakland A's and San Francisco Giants and will soon sing the Anthem at Maples. Let their extraordinary vocalizations add that special touch to your corporate event, wedding or any occasion. Make sure to check their website for some terrific YouTube samples of their talents. PS--you might recognize our own videographer, Bud Anderson, as a member of the group.

Pajaro Dunes Oceanfront Condo--Is there a better getaway than a quick drive to the Coast? Treat yourself to a long weekend or midweek trip at this oceanfront condo at Pajaro Dunes, just 62 miles south of Maples Pavilion. This one bedroom, one bath comes with a fully equipped kitchen and wireless internet access. In addition, you will be greeted with your choice of a bottle of Chardonnay, Champagne, Merlot, Cabernet or Sparkling Cider. Venture out to local wineries, shop in nearby Carmel, hit world famous golf courses or just pick up a good book and relax by the fireplace. It can all be yours for your high bid.

Commemorative 2008-09 Team Quilt--How special is this item? Your own quilt commemorating the 2008-2009 Cardinal! Each team member is featured with their name and number. This quilt would be great on any bed or as a terrific wall hanging. Donated by Lindy's parents, Beverly and Alan!


Weekend Stay at West Shore Lake Tahoe Home--Enjoy spectacular lake views from the deck of this Rubicon Bay (West Lake Tahoe) family cabin. This cozy, classic cabin is nestled in the trees on the lakeside of Highway 89 and just a 5 minute walk from the beach. This may be an old school Tahoe cabin, but has been upgraded with modern conveniiences such as a downstairs rec room with a 42" HD plasma tv and surround sound. Four bedrooms and 3.5 baths, plenty of room for everyone! See pictures here.

Five Nights in Poipu Beach, Kauai, Condo--A dream vacation awaits with this five night stay in a beautiful 2 bedroom, 2-1/2 bath recently remodeled condo at Poipu Kai Resort in Poipu Beach, Kauai. This condo offers a deluxe ocean view and is just steps from the beach. Guests may play tennis, relax in a Jacuzzi, and swim in the two pools that are on site. Two beautiful golf courses are adjacent to the property. Poipu Beach was recently named America's Best Beach by The Travel Channel, ranking top among 10 "best" beaches selected nationwide. This beach is a series of golden sand crescents, strung together where beach-goers will find snorkeling, swimming, wading, boogie-boarding and surfing. Good March 1 through November 20, 2009.

Personalized Tour of Berlin--Off to Germany soon? Karen Kramer, who played at Stanford (64-65), has been the Director of Stanford in Berlin for 27 years. She is offering a unique chance to see Berlin through her eyes with a one of a kind, three hour tour. Having lived in Berlin since 1970, Karen has seen, first hand, the changes and growth of Berlin. In fact, she is offering a piece of the Berlin Wall, which she can verify is real, because she sledge-hammered it out herself! Tour will include walking and car travel. You get there and Karen will do the rest! Don’t let this extraordinary chance slip away!

Week at Northstar--Enjoy this Northern California resort in this pristine 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo. With a queen bed in the master, two twins in the second bedroom and a fold out couch, this condo can easily sleep 6. Centrally located close to the village and rec center, everything is here for you -- fully equipped kitchen, cable TV, washer and dryer and a wood burning fireplace. Golf, mountain biking, tennis, hiking and fly fishing could all be in your future! A Jacuzzi is in the unit and the property includes a lap pool, hot tub and sauna. This is a pet friendly place, so Fido can be included!

Seat from the 2008 Final Four Bench--Own a piece of Stanford and Women's Basketball history. This chair was part of Stanford's bench at the 2008 Final Four in Tampa!


Hopefully one of these terrific items has your interest--and there is plenty more in all of our categories--check here for details--

Stanford Stuff

Activities

Home and Garden

Sports and Memorabilia

Travel

Wine and Dine

Make sure to check back on the links as we are going to be adding items right up to the day of the Auction. Can't be there, but see something you just MUST have? Check out online bid info here.

Also, be on the lookout for your chance to win a Wii or buy one of our Cardinal Nation T-Shirts.

Hoping to see you all there--remember, great place for Christmas shopping!

Check Auction Page for Updates

We have just added a whole bunch of stuff to the auction items listed here for your reviewing pleasure. Check back often as we are adding items regularly. We will soon be adding Stanford items that Amy is getting together--team gear and the like. And yes, it's true, we will have some of last year's fabulous BLACK jerseys!

Check out the Travel page for info on stays at Poipu Beach in Kauai, West Lake Tahoe and PAC-10 destinations.

Wine and Dine will tickle your taste buds with many local restaurants on board again this year. Also--great wines!

Sports features items from legends Martina Navratilova, Steve Young, Sue Bird and more.

Activities features Giants Opening Day tickets (Lincecum!), golf lessons, Giants Club tickets with parking and many more Bay Area attractions.

We ALWAYS have some great Live Auction items and this year will be no different. Already planned is a 2008-09 Season Commemorative Handmade quilt donated by new Stanford parentals Beverly & Alan LaRocque. How special is that?

We hope you are planning to join us and maybe get in a little early Christmas shopping for your favorite Cardinal fan. But if you can't be there, we make it easy for you to place bids anyway--check it out here!

SEE YOU THERE--SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23!


Have something to donate--here's how. Want to volunteer to help out? Contact me at dana.stewart@kaleidescape.com.

Auction is Early This Year!

Just wanted to let everyone know that we have chosen Sunday, November 23, as our Auction date. This will be in conjunction with what should be a terrific game against Rutgers! It is just a little earlier than usual--so mark your calendars now. This will give you a chance to do a little early Holiday shopping for your favorite Cardinal fan.

This year's theme is CARDINAL NATION, celebrating the far reach of SWB.

We are ALWAYS looking for donations to make this event successful. Do you have a vacation home or extra wine in your cellar? Got any gift cards hanging around that you aren't going to use? Sports memorabilia? 49er, Sharks, Raiders, Warriors, Giants or A's tickets? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Eileen Roche at
eroche@stanford.edu.

Check back to my blog soon for more info and to the FBC website for a list of available items--we hope to see you there.

It's Wine Time!

Can't believe that it is almost time to start another season! Weren't we just in Tampa?

There's no better way to get in the spirit for a new season than to attend our annual Wine Tasting Social to be held at Vino Locale in downtown Palo Alto on Sunday, September 14, from 2-5 pm. Here is more info and a signup form.

There will be tons of fun with lots of your Stanford friends on hand along with Coach Tara and her staff to share stories about last year and get some scoop about what is up for the upcoming season. The staff at Vino Locale, located at 431 Kipling Street, goes out of their way to put out a terrific spread along with great local wines.

We will also have a small silent auction, with seats on the Stanford bench up for bid for the Minnesota and Rutgers game. I'm sure we'll have a few other things for you to spend your $$ on, all in support of the Women's Basketball Improvement Fund.

Just to whet your appetite, here are a few pix from previous events--we've always had glorious weather and so much fun it should be illegal! HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!