While we were still mired in the mess of our roster problems (which I referred to previously, as an “Internal Matter”), I think the entire team was eager to move forward, after our close defeat at the hands of the Daemen Wildcats. I felt like our film sessions and practices, last week, were perhaps the best we have had thus far, this season. The Energy, Effort and Enthusiasm were all very good, and that elusive “fourth E”, Execution – was improving.

Our next opponent, the University of the District of Columbia Firebirds, are not a strong team. So, as our week of preparation came to a close, our focus was more on ourselves, with the goal being to play to our own standards, regardless of the level of competition. I always dread this game, especially when it is in D.C., like this year. And this year we were making the trek to the Nation’s Capital, and then back to Molloy, on the same day!

We left Molloy at exactly 6am, Saturday morning, and encountered no traffic delays the entire trip south. In addition to the beautiful sunrise, I thought the view looking north, up the Hudson River, as we crossed the George Washington Bridge, into New Jersey, was also, cool.

We arrived at UDC, with plenty of time. I was impressed with their field and athletic facilities. By game time, the temperature was 85 degrees! With our small roster, the heat was cause for concern.

We wasted little time, scoring early and often against the overmatched and undermanned Firebirds. Seven different players, scored goals and every available player, saw action, on our way to a 23 – 1 victory. Games like this, against weaker opponents, can be difficult to analyze. While we did not always play up to our own standards, we did do lots of things well. So, rather than dwell on all that we did not do, I am happy to take the win and even happier that we did not have any injuries.

On the long bus ride home (we did experience some significant traffic delays!), I contemplated where we are, at this point in our season. I am happy that our “Internal Matter”, is now behind us, and that we are “whole”, once again. With five games remaining, the story of our season is not yet completed. The outcomes of our final three Conference Games, will determine our fate. Somehow, I am feeling good about it all. We have endured and hopefully, overcome, some real adversity. Now, it is time to make something good, out of it all.

The Lions are back in action, Wednesday at nationally ranked Adelphi! Go Lions!

Bonus – Movie Review

I know this may surprise some of you, but even during the Lacrosse Season, I am able to set aside some time, for other things. I am a big Peaky Blinders fan, and recently finished re-watching all six seasons of the series, in preparation for the recent release of the Netflix Movie. Last week, I finally got around to watching the movie. I was concerned that I might be a bit disappointed, but that was unfounded, as I was thoroughly entertained. The Film should not be compared to the series, but it is certainly a worthy addition to the saga. If you are not a Peaky Blinders fan, already, you may want to give it a look.