I normally resist, making the weather a central part of the story (here and in life). But, we have been stuck in this weather pattern for weeks now, and it has dominated most facets of everyday life. To some extent, I think we have all acclimated to the extreme and extended cold, at least to some extent. For instance, when temperatures rose to around 30 degrees in the afternoon, last week, it was relatively comfortable. Thankfully, we were able to practice outside, which was quite productive.

Our scrimmage at Western Connecticut State in Danbury, was originally scheduled for Saturday. But, as the weather forecast took shape, the weekend would be dangerously cold, so it was moved to Friday afternoon. We tried to prepare for the contest in the same way, we would normally approach a game. Like I mentioned, I thought our practices mostly went well. The energy was good and it did feel like “game preparation”.

I would be remiss, if I failed to mention my lunch meeting on Wednesday. I am fortunate to be in touch with Bob Macaluso, my High School Lacrosse and Football Coach. He is not usually in New York, this time of year (I wonder why?). But this year he was, and we were able to plan to meet up at the Dix Hills Diner. It had been, I don’t know how many years, since we have seen each other, in person. Coach is now pushing 80, and still looks terrific! (I meant to get a photo of the two of us, but forgot) Over the years I have increasingly appreciated his mentorship, and our relationship. It was a great two hours, after which, I felt somehow fortified and grateful.

While Wednesday’s lunch was definitely a highlight for me, so was Friday. We loaded into the Vans and headed to West Conn. Traffic was light, so it was mostly smooth sailing (unlike the ride home, which was awful!). By the time we took the field and got warmed up, I felt like the weather was not really a factor. I know it was just a scrimmage, but with so many new players, the excitement level was high – more like for a game.

We started slowly, before settling in and playing better. In some ways it was a a typically sloppy, early season match up. Neither team was especially sharp, particularly in the beginning. Overall, I was happy with how things went. I saw noticeable improvement over the course of the scrimmage and was generally encouraged by our play. It was great to get out there and compete against someone other than ourselves. Certainly, we need to improve in all facets of the game, but it was a positive first time out. I think we are all looking forward to building on this experience and getting back to work.

Back to the weather. Temperatures this week, are supposed to rise into the mid thirties! That bodes well for practices and for our scrimmage at Dominican, next Saturday!

Go Lions!