Calipari, players big hit at women’s clinic
October 9th, 2009 | 
Author: By LARRY VAUGHT
Last year I was able to see what went on at the University of Kentucky Women’s Basketball Clinic because I was asked to be on a media panel,
This year I didn’t get to attend, but thanks to UK super fan Sarah White I now know plenty about what went on and nothing really surprised me. Once again, John Calipari charmed Kentucky fans and the newcomer who made a huge impression on me did the same for White.
Here is what she revealed about the clinic:
“Things were very similar to last year, but much better. This year we were able to visit the coach’s office and see his haven. His wife, Ellen, was there to talk to us, answer questions, etc. You can tell she is a very special person. We were also able to visit Wildcat Lodge with Scott Padgett and Tony Delk as our guides. We asked Tony if anyone on the team could take him in 3-pointers, and he didn’t answer but Scott seemed to think not. I told him I would never forget the sweet touch he had on those long balls.
‘We ran into Patrick, and while he probably wanted to hide, he was gracious enough to come out and take pictures and sign autographs. The coach set up a table and signed everything we wanted signed as well as allowing individual (or in my case family) pictures with him.
“Jon Hood’s mother and grandmother were in attendance and in our group. Since I am from Dawson Springs, and my mother worked her entire career as a social worker in Madisonville, I was able to talk to them and visit with them. They were super nice people. And, you can tell Jon was brought up well.
“I am constantly amazed at the players, their manners, and their awareness of how important this event is to us. Each of them was respectful and nice. John Wall, who could have the ego of a giant, was just like one of your own children. But, I guess my new favorite has to be DeMarcus Cousins. He is HUGE, but seems to have a heart of gold. And, he is quite the cut-up. I just smile every time I think of him. But, not to leave the others out — they are all guys that parents would be proud to call their son.
“Coach Cal was all he is advertised and more. He was funny, bright, entertaining, and warm. I think I speak of all 300 plus women in saying we each came off feeling as if we were his close friend. I think you called this one right — he is EXACTLY who UK needs. He is now ‘home’ as far as I am concerned. He taught us the dribble drive offense, but it was so complicated I don’t think I will share it with you. You might not understand. (year, right!!). He also made pictures with each of our groups so he could publish on his website.
“I think one of the people that gets little recognition but deserves a lot is (associate athletics director for media relations) DeWayne Peevy. You can tell he does not seek much in terms of recognition, but he was everywhere taking pictures, talking to the visitors, making sure everything was okay. As always, he keeps a low profile, but he represents the UK community so well.
“We really liked each of the coaches, but coach Orlando Antigua was Mr. Personality. No wonder he is a top recruiter.”
Let’s see. Cal let the women tour his office, check out Wildcat Lodge with Scott Padgett and Tony Delk, and had his wife there. Then Wall, the preseason college player of the year, was nice and Cousins, a player I have predicted UK fans would love, charmed the group. Plus, Patterson was Patterson and as gracious as ever. Finally, Antigua worked his magic with the female fans.
Amazing how that is so different from last year’s clinic just like I think this year’s season will be.
Posted in UK Basketball
Larry, you gotta stop this. My heart can’t take any more of the anticipation that is building. If the season doesn’t get here soon, I’m not gonna make it. These players and our coach have shown what truly good people they are and they just sound better and better as the days pass. They are as good people as they are players.
You are my favorite reporter of all time, but I have to admit that I occasionally read other websites as well. I think that anyone who enjoyed this great article should check out this story from the women’s camp as well:
http://kentuckysportsradio.com/?p=30522
If you thought Patrick was a great person before, wait until you read this.
Thanks for all you do Larry. Keep the articles coming. I’ll just go see a heart doctor or something.
Thanks for sharing Jim. And I know a good heart doctor here if you need one. His son, Jordan Aumiller, now plays football at Kentucky
Larry, I forgot to add that yesterday morning I left a comment on the UK athletics website asking them to please put the starting times for the Cleveland State and Stanford games on the printable schedule that they offer on the site. To tell the truth, I thought someone might correct the schedule in a week or two, if at all. By yesterday evening I got a personal e-mail from DeWayne Peevy with a pdf of the revised schedule. How amazing is it that, with all his responsibilities, he took the time to personally take care of my request? This just backs up what your friend had to say about him in your article. How truly lucky are we to have the wonderful people that are involved in this program
Heck, he is going to have his own fan club soon. Seriously, little things like those mean a lot to fans. But he is a very helpful guy
Larry,
Your super fan is right. Cousins is a pleasure to be around. My wife is all of 4′11″ and when he took a picture with her he had a nice smile. He is my wif’s new favorite but her picture with Patterson is amazing. He bent down and smiled like he just won an NCAA championship. I was going to ask if these players are for real with their great fan awareness and likeability but the more I read the less I question. I wish “Big Cuz” would stay for a while he would easily be an all time favorite. Keep up the good work. GO BLUE OR STAY HOME!!
Thanks for sharing those stories. Pat is unbelievable, but Cousins seems to be enjoying his role as UK ambassador even more. He says he loves the big stage, and he is sure proving it. Tell your wife to cherish those photos and memories UKFMLY
I am so pumped also, can’t wait. It is going to be an exciting year. I wrote this back in May, I hope you all enjoy it.
T’was the night before Madness
T’was the night before Madness and all through The Nation
Not a creature was stirring, not even in Bryant Station.
The nets were hung from the rafters with care,
in hopes that Redemption would soon be there.
The fans were all nestled all snug in their tents
While visions of number 8 danced in their heads.
And mama in her parka and I in my sweats
Had just settled down for the first in line quest.
When out on Vine St. there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my tent to see what was the matter.
Away to the street I flew in a flash,
In hopes that my car had not been smashed.
The moon on the street of new lights aglow
Gave the luster of mid-day of objects to behold.
When what to my wondering eyes should appear?
A big blue bus and 13 glorious team players,
With an Italian driver, so lively and quick
I knew in a minute it must be Coach Cal and his picks.
More rapid than eagles, his coursers they came
And he whistled and shouted and called them by name.
Now Cousins, now Wall, now Orton and Patterson,
On Miller, on Hood, on Liggins and Stephenson.
To the top of the polls, we will show those doubters
We will rise from the ashes and be the best shouters.
Now dribble, now drive, now pass, and now score.
Do it from the top of the key, from the corner of the floor.
As I saw the dribble, the drive, the pass and the score
I looked in awe and I knew what would soon be in store.
Our prayers would be answered and we’ll shoot for the moon.
Then opponents will scramble and UK will be top of the polls soon
Don’t doubt our loyalty, don’t deny our tradition
We are back on the road with a new mission.
We will be loyal, we will be true Blue, we will be firm,
UK is back and let those other schools squirm.
Linda S 5-09
Linda, that is great. Please email me at larry@amnews.com
I had a blast at the women’s clinic, and I was amazed by how gracious the players and coaches were as we women flocked to them for photos and autographs. Patterson is everything and more that the is hyped to be. My daughter drew a picture for him, and she insisted that I show it to him. He actually took the time to look at it, commented on it, and then signed it for her. You could tell by the smiles and the vibe from the players that this year could be special.
Thanks for another great story and experience Kristi. It’s just hard not to like these guys