Ken just nodded, trying to extricate himself from the overly eager Captain. Thankfully, the Head Coach stepped up and got the attention of the room.
"Alright, I know you're all excited to meet your new teammates." He said, "But there'll be plenty of time to get acquainted in the future."
"We'll need to go over your schedule for the year first off. I'll preface this by saying that if any of you are late or don't attend practice, there better be a hell of a reason as to why." Coach Brown stated, his expression stern.
"Remember, most of you are on some kind of scholarship here. This is a privilege, not a right. I don't care if you're the number 1 recruit in the country, if you don't turn up to training, you'll find yourself paying your own tuition."
Ken was slightly taken aback from the attitude of Coach Brown. He knew that the guy was newly appointed to the position, so why was he laying down the law so thick?
However, no one seemed to bat an eye at the harsh stance of the new coach. As Ken looked around the room, everybody's expression was solemn and determined, it seemed that they respected the man greatly.
The coach then went on to detail their team training days and schedule, as well as weight room and strength and conditioning times. Infielders, outfielders, pitchers and catchers would have their own designated coach's, something that was new to Ken.
Back in High School, apart from the 1st and 3rd base coach's and a few helpers, their Head Coach was the jack of all trades. This was the difference between amateur and professional teams.
Like this, Ken was pulled from pillar to post as he went through the remaining orientation activities. There was the tour of the campus, another meeting regarding his academic and athletic commitments and a health and wellness session.
By the time it was over, Ken was exhausted.
He managed to rally somewhat when given his brand new uniforms and equipment. The light blue was quite appealing to his eye, and he couldn't wait to try it on later. Of course he still preferred the red and white from the Japanese National team, but that was neither here nor there.
"There's a welcome dinner later tonight at Lerner Hall, you're coming right?" Kaden waltzed over casually and asked Ken.
Ken shook his head vehemently. "I think I've had enough socializing for today."
Kaden wore a sympathetic look, however there was a hint of amusement hidden behind, "Oh buddy… I know it sounded like an invitation, but it's mandatory."
Hearing this, Ken couldn't help but let out a long sigh. Since he had missed out on move-in day, Ken still hadn't been to his dorm yet. He was hoping to head there soon and get set up before getting an early rest.
"Well, sounds like I don't have a choice." Ken muttered, sounding heartbroken.
"Hahaha, don't worry man it's not that bad. Plus, you'll get to see all the hotties from the swim team." He said, sending him a wink.
"Not interested…" Ken replied, his face deadpan.
"Oh… Well, I mean it won't just be girls there." Kaden replied, his expression shifting slightly.
"I have a girlfriend." He stated, not wanting his teammates to get the wrong idea.
"Hey man, you don't need to prove yourself to me." He said, lifting his hands up in submission. However, there was a hint of mischief in his eyes that made it seem like he was being antagonizing on purpose.
Ken shook his head, feeling a headache coming on.
"Oh, I almost forgot. Do you like Yoga? Ayden and I run the morning sessions right here during the week."
"Yoga?" Ken was thoughtful for a moment. Yoga had been part of one of his first missions from the system. Though he had not done it often since, it sounded like he might be able to benefit from it.
"Sure, I'll come." He said. To Ken who was a training maniac, working on his flexibility and balance was not something that he would say no to.
"Great!" Kaden exclaimed, but then his face grew a little pensive. "Just make sure you dress appropriately, I don't want to see you in tights or leggings. Short shorts are also a no, we don't want to see any balls hanging out during poses."
Ken blinked a few times, almost not believing what he was being told. "It sounds like you've experienced these things before."
Kaden nodded gravely, his expression hinting at the horrors he had experienced before. "Not only that, all the chicks got scared away. It took months before they were willing to return."
At the mention of girls, Ken felt a little uncomfortable. Of course Yoga was popular amongst girls, but he wanted to steer clear from them, mainly because of all the stories he'd heard about college.
The last thing he wanted was a scandal and to put both his relationship and his career in jeopardy.
As if seeing the discomfort in Ken's face, Kaden gave him a knowing smile. "Don't worry man, I'll make it so that the girls won't bother you." He said, sending him a wink.
"Alright, see you at the welcome dinner."
Before Ken could respond, Kaden had already left the vicinity.
Ken stood in place, watching the guy leave. 'What did he mean by that? Is he going to tell them that I'm a weirdo or something?'
Unfortunately, he could only wait and find out.
A couple of hours later, Ken was finally done with the orientation and was given a brief respite to go visit his dorms. However, things weren't as straight forward as he expected.
At the Check-in station, he had to provide all of his documentation before receiving a Columbia University ID. Apparently this would serve as his access to both the building and his room.
By the time he'd gone through everything and arrived at his dorm, there was only around 30 minutes until the welcome dinner.
Upon opening the door, Ken was surprised to find that the room was bare. He was expecting a roommate, but it seemed that he had lucked out and had the place to himself, at least for now.
"Well I guess this is good news…" He mused, placing his bag down on the bed.