Back to Basics

After last weekend’s performance, I was embarrassed to say the least. Not a very strong showing and after digging ourselves a 1-10 hole at halftime – not much seemed bright. By far our worst outing this season and it was at home no less. Make no mistake about it; Calgary is a good team, play-off bound no doubt. In the midst of a two game, mid season skid, we try to rebound this weekend in Boston.

The only thing I liked about this week was the weather. A beautiful stretch of a few days this week helped a little. I know its cliché to talk about weather in Seattle but honestly, Sun, in the middle of February? After our game Friday night, Jason Bloom, Jeff Zywicki, Lewis Ratcliff and Rhys Duch stayed in Mukilteo for a clinic Saturday afternoon. More than a hundred Youth and Middle School players showed for the opportunity to learn from some of the game’s best. Jason, Jeff, Lewis and Rhys did a great job and judging by the way folks were acting afterwards, we are gonna have a lot more people at the next Stealth home game (March 27^th btw).

The day was not done as I headed home briefly to prepare for a trip to Bainbridge Island. My good friend Coach Dejon Hush picked me up to catch the 5:30pm ferry en route to the Annual Spaghetti dinner. This was my first time attending the event and I certainly look forward to the Island. I mean, I would never stay overnight in fear of becoming too much like Adam Smith but the sunset heading over across the sound – looking back at the city – it’s not far from something I could grow old with. The banquet was a neat atmosphere as mostly parents and players filled a cafeteria. Members from the Varsity lacrosse team served food and bussed tables which I know is a product of Coach Hush’s so called “discipline”, I love it…

Coach Visco who I have come to have tremendous respect for asked me to speak, so I spoke. I had a few choice words of wisdom for the young players in attendance though I doubt anyone was listening. Afterwards we came back to the mainland catching a great nap on the ferry ride back. If I didn’t wake my pilot, I’m pretty sure he might have stayed on the boat till the 2am ferry, asleep. Those of you, who know he, know what I speak of…..

The rest of the week has moved by at a good pace. There has been a lot of planning going on for the summer and I’m really excited for what’s in store. Oh, and did I mention the HS season is coming up!!! Niiice!! After last year I’m even more pumped for that to begin. Before last year I was excited to see it for the first time, now, I know the programs, I know the coaches and I know the players. Look for my predictions and Pre-season thoughts coming soon. Only a few more weeks till the first game folks.

Wish us luck this weekend against the Blazers Saturday night. Be sure to catch the game on www.nll.com for those of you die hards out there…..Blake Mitchell

Till next time,

JK