It's finally over! School ended this week, and I am happier than a pig in mud.

This last week was full of studying and lots of stress. I apologize for not giving you one of my wonderful journals last week; I was trying to finish out the semester. Our regular season is winding down, and we have three crucial weekends left. The PAC-10 title is up for grabs, and we intend on winning it.

We take on a strong Oregon State team tonight that has had a good year so far. It will be a good series between us, and we have the potential to move into a top spot in the PAC if we do well.

Last week we did not play, because we had our final exams. Although it was nice to get a week off, I was still spending most of my time on the field and preparing for exams. There were a couple of days that I spent having fun. I did make it out to the lake to do some more spear fishing, but still had no luck. Every time I threw the spear, it would miss the fish by inches. I'm getting better. When I do get a fish, it will be the highlight of my year!

I also had time to get another haircut. After getting reamed by the team for weeks, for paying 60 bucks for a haircut, I made sure not to make the same mistake twice. I had my girlfriend, Sarah, buzz my head. She did a great job, but there was no way I was going to pay her for it. She was the one who lured me into the $60 haircut in the first place, so she owed me big time.

My dad coaches a high school team back home in Palos Verdes, Calif. Every week when I talk to him, he tells me about all the teams they are beating. The high school team he coaches for has only been around for about four years, and they are already a great team. The Palos Verdes Sea Kings are 21-3 I believe, and are heading into the playoffs as a No. 1 seed. I'm impressed with that team. A young program like this is beating up on programs that have been around for years. That's special. I want to wish the Sea Kings good luck as they head into the playoffs. Go get 'em Fuj!

Now it's time for the Devils to take care of some business of our own against the Beavers. It's going to be a great weekend!

Joe Pa Out.

(photo courtesy of Arizona State Media Relations Office)