May 19, 2005

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands --- Wednesday marked Carolina's first full day in Amsterdam, complete with sightseeing, shopping and volleyball. After an early breakfast at the Museum Hotel, the team's Dutch headquarters, the Tar Heels enjoyed a boat tour of Amsterdam's beautiful canals. The tour took the group throughout the old city, passing by the Anne Frank Huis, the Rembrandt House and the Maritime Museum.

The group split up in the afternoon, with some going off to shop and others visiting several of the city's museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. After a relaxing day, the team reconvened for a pre-game meal at a local Italian restaurant.

The Tar Heels then traveled by bus to the town of Houten, home of the Taurus Volleyball Club, a top team from the Dutch Second Division. An energetic crowd of about 200 cheered the local team to victory, as UNC lost in five games, 14-25, 25-21, 20-25, 25-22, 15-12. Most of the team saw action, including the recently-graduated seniors.

Thursday will be the group's last night in Amsterdam, with another match against famed First Division Dutch club Martinus. Continue to check back often for notes from the team and (Internet-willing) pictures from the trip.