One last Mercer game to end my career in A-League and it couldn't have been more fitting. Big Stick vs. Roots of Rhythm in the finals for the 4th straight year. Unfortunately due to field availability, this season's final was one game, winner-take-all. No best of three this time around.
It ended up being a great game. We came out hard and took half 9-3 on some big D's by Mike Auld and it looked like we were going to run away with the cup, but Roots wasn't giving up easily and stormed back in the second half, eventually bringing the game to within 1 point at around 13-12 or so. Our O recovered and began scoring consistantly again, but our D couldn't get a break. Finally, we changed the mark around a bit and finally started getting some defensive pressure on their handlers and managed to sneak a break or two down the home stretch to close out what definitely a nail-biter for us. As always, Roots battled fiercely and it was a hard won game. Noah Saul especially was a beast for them in a losing effort. I can't wait to hear what a season with Ring does for his game. Dem boys play the game right.
For my own part, I played OK and made a couple of decent plays, but the game was won by our young studs. Our vets played solidly and set the tone, but it was the young talent that made all of the big plays and made the difference in the game. While I was a bit disappointed in myself to not be a difference maker in the game, it's reassuring to see that the league and team is in good hands for the future.
When I joined the league basically just to play with Walt, MJ, and Jaeger a few years back, I never expected it to come to mean as much as it has in my ultimate career. I've met a lot of great players and teammates and it's been a great honor and challenge to play in A-League. I'm just glad I got a chance to win out with Big Stick in my last season and that I retired before the young studs in the league realized that they're actually better than I am. As Walt says, winning is a mindset. I've managed to win the mental game up until now, but I think a few select individuals were starting to see past the smoke and mirrors.
So long, and thanks for all the memories.
Today was my first real taste of the Catskills and the beauty that surrounds Oneonta. After my first solo flight on the job at AO Fox Hospital, I headed out to Robert V. Riddell Park to try myhand at trail running. It was awesome.
