We had a solid week of practice last week. As the weekend neared, you could sense that finally a “Game Day” was upon us (ok, so it was only a scrimmage, it felt like a game). The Three E’s – Energy, Effort and Enthusiasm were present, in abundance. As we wrapped things up Friday, I felt pretty good about the next day’s Scrimmage out at St. Joe’s (Patchogue).

Saturday morning temperatures were in the mid thirties, but the high winds made it feel much colder. Thankfully, it was sunny for most of the day. It was a smooth van ride east to St. Joe’s Off Campus Facility on Sunrise Highway. As the Lady Lions took the field, I was excited, but also not sure if I had underestimated the weather and wondered if I was under-dressed. I thought we warmed up well on this very Blustery Day, and was eager to see how we would look against the Eagles (a solid DIII Program).

We started fast. Scoring early and often, dominating possession and controlling the contest in every facet. When the Eagles did gain possession, they were relentlessly tracked down in transition and suffocated whenever they were able to get the ball into their offensive zone. St. Joe’s was certainly game, and competed hard throughout, but they were somewhat overmatched in this one.

On a side note, it was great to see St. Joe’s Assistant Coach, Vinnie Pfeiffer, an old friend from Sunday Night Pick Up Lacrosse at the Field of Dreams in Massapequa. He is getting the wonderful opportunity to coach with his daughter Jillian, who is the Head Coach. The Eagles are in good hands and I wish them the best of luck with their season.

Though we did many things pretty well, our performance was far from perfect. In fact, it was actually, fairly typical of “early season lacrosse”. Our stick skills were spotty and our execution was inconsistent, even, non-existent at some points. So, while we could be pleased overall with the progress we have made thus far, it is obvious we still have a lot of improvement to make if we are going to approach, becoming the kind of team we think we can be. All in all, I felt that the scrimmage was a positive step forward for us.

The team was all back together on Sunday, for the annual “Face Off Luncheon” at “Kasey’s Kitchen and Cocktails”, in Rockville Centre. This is a great fundraising event for both the Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse Teams. A lot of money is raised and it is a chance for the players and their families and friends to gather and show support for the programs. Thank you to all of the people who make it possible, and to all who were able to attend and participate. Now it is time to get after it!

GO LIONS!