Well, it came as a surprise when our prez received an e-mail saying that Albert Lucas was going to be in town and wanted to come to one of the club meetings. In spite of some member skepticism about it being the "real" Albert Lucas, the IU Juggling club was not only visited by one of the most talented jugglers in the business, but embraced by him!

Albert is currently working on a degree through the IU correspondence program while he continues to perform professionally. Apparently, his father had a warm history with Indiana University and Albert was eager to attend school at his father's alma Malta. Although Albert has only attended a single meeting, it was a meeting that none will soon forget!

Albert was very open and sharing with his coaching and ideas about juggling. He gave an impromptu presentation about the history of juggling, his contributions and the Olympic dreams that he would like to see realized some day. He also spoke about his 14 ring world record attempt and the difficulties with props and training that he must overcome to achieve that milestone.

Nobody can argue that the man loves juggling! After almost two hours of photos, stories and yarns, he finally broke out his props and gave us a unique demonstration of his routine work. After twenty minutes of amazing technical, and a little comical, juggling, he proceeded to walk about the gym, offering advice and coaching to all of the members.

Although many members were shy, Albert managed to give tips and training advice for everyone involved.

Like parents trying to get their kids to go to bed at Christmas, the university's gym management had to come and kick us out when the HPER facilities were closing around midnight. Albert promised that he would show us some vintage footage of some of his father's work the next time he comes through Indiana.

As an official member of the IU Juggling club, we welcome Albert to our meeting anytime he is in town!