
03-02-2009, 08:14 AM
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Capo Regime
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Join Date: Feb 2004
Posts: 40,873
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Total Points: 17,680,344.83
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Dispatch
Quote:
Rob Oller commentary: A practiced eye sees a team that plays well
Monday, March 2, 2009 3:08 AM
By Rob Oller
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Sometimes it takes airing a team's dirty laundry to sort out what makes it tick, which explains why Brice Westphall has the scoop on how the Ohio State women's basketball team just won its fifth consecutive Big Ten regular-season title. After 36 seasons of washing and drying uniforms, Westphall is retiring as the Buckeyes' equipment manager. Given his behind-the-scenes access, the Newark native has seen the best and worst of teams from his office perch among the detergent boxes. On one end, he has witnessed discord and distrust. On the other end, he has viewed the togetherness of teammates who trust one another both on and off the court.
He has seen chokers and champions and understands why one fails and the other thrives. So when he discusses the 2008-09 OSU women's team, he knows of what he speaks. What Westphall -- known as "Wes" by most everyone except the players, who call him Wessy-pooh -- sees is what is perhaps the most talented OSU team ever.
Just as important to the success, however, is a team unity that extends beyond the court. These Buckeyes are a close-knit crew who manage the trick of not taking themselves too seriously while taking the game very seriously.
"They're just a bunch
of happy-go-lucky kids,"
Cont..
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