Every end is a new beginning

Sorry for slacking. I don't know why but for some reason I've kinda been dreading making this last post about this years season. I guess I figured if I never wrote anything I could wake up one morning and it would be January 25th and the season wouldn't have started yet. Honestly though that's how great this season has been for me. I'm not gonna lie, fall ball definitely had me a little skeptical. Losing as many guys as we did last year in key positions in addition to bringing in a huge freshman class definitely didn't seem like a recipe for a successful season. The young guys really stepped it up though and earned their keep and I couldn't be prouder of them. I don't know the stats off the top of my head but i think we had something like 8 come from behind wins and were 5-0 in one or two goal games. That just shows the will to win this team has.

Really sorry to see the seniors go. Great group of guys that I got the opportunity to play with for three years. I'd just like to say a little something about each of them.

Luke Flegar: Luke used to give me rides to fall ball every day when I was a freshman so I'll always owe him for that. Even though he wasn't a captain this year he definitely was a leader on the team and gave his all every single day in practice. Glad he came back for his senior year.

Kevin McMahon: One of the funniest kids off the field. Kev def keeps everybody on there toes. Great midfielder that was willing to do anything to help the team win. Kev's going to the NYPD and I wish him the best of luck and couldn't be happier for him.

Mike Keenan: I had the pleasure of being in Mambas weight lifting group this fall. Mike brought it hard every day to the gym and was willing to work out non-stop. It was definitely unfortunate that he tore his ACL this year but hopefully he will be back next year.

Ryan Price: Price was one of our most important players for us this year. Not only did he win face-offs for us, but he scored goals as well. As a captain he was one of the best I have ever had and was a truly phenomenal leader.

Mike Glynn: What can I say about this kid? I had the pleasure of playing defense with him over the past 3 years and couldn't be happy. I don't know many people that play with more heart than Glynn. And what a shot! Too bad that whole man-up thing never worked out.

Luke Weidlein: Playing against Luke definitely wasn't the biggest confidence booster over the past 3 years. But he made me a better player and I can't thank him enough for that. Luke made the most out of his four years here and it was fun to watch him play from the other end.

Also quick side note: I doubt he remembers but when I first came to PSU as a walk on during the tryout my first time playing in front of coach I was matched up against Luke. The first time the ball came down I threw a back check and helicoptered his stick. To this day I think that was a major reason why I made the team so thanks Luke!

Kyle Norchi: Kyle Norchi hands down has the most passion out of anyone I have ever played with. I have never seen someone get so mad during 3-on-2's or fast break drills. It definitely brought practices to a new level of intensity. I'd love to play another year with Kyle but if he heads somewhere else I wish him the best of luck.

As crazy as it sounds next season is already in the works. We had our first team meeting for 2011 and captains were named. Kyle Norchi and Mike Keenan were both named captains if they choose to remain at school to use their extra year of eligibility. Also I am honored to say that I was chosen as well. I think that was the best way to say it without sounding like a tool. But seriously I am very proud to have been chosen and am looking forward to next year.

In case you haven't noticed I'm a big fan of absurd news stories that aren't really news. This one takes the cake though.Not only does it include sports and mascots, but Jerry Springer as well. The Mets aren't doing to bad all things considered.

That's about all for tonight. We have a team BBQ tomorrow where our team awards will be announced so I'll let you know how that goes. Also will keep you posted on SUNYAC honors.

When I write my first movie Mr.Norchi will be selecting my soundtrack.
-DeFran