A night I will NEVER forget!

As some of you know my sons have played hockey since they were very young. Of course when they are small they want to grow up and be professional hockey players. As the years go by they realize that that's not going to happen so they set their sights on college hockey. Al Jr. made the Penn State hockey team this year and last night he got his first opportunity to dress for a game. So Alina, Mitch and I made the 3.5 hour ride to PSU for his first ever college game. To say I was nervous for him would be an understatement.

As I was having my pre-game cigar (as I always do) I thought back over all the years and the sacrifices that not only Jr. has made but the entire family has made to get to this point in his hockey life. Limited vacations, Christmas's with fewer gifts than other kids, late night practice schedules, homework to carry Honor Roll grades and gym workout schedules all had to get done. And all without one complaint.

Reflecting on all of that with my cigar I realized no matter what happened in this game it made no difference, he had reached his goal. All the hard work and effort had paid off, he was playing in his first college game. I was just so proud of him for his hard work and dedication over the years no matter what happened no one could take that away from him or me.

So, first shift he jumps the boards and bolts to the offensive zone, trips over his own feet and goes right on his a$$! The think the nerves of playing in his first game coupled with playing in front of 1,100+ vs. what he was used to (a handful of parents) got the best of him. Anyway, the fans, team and coach's had a good laugh at his expense. Once he got through that first shift he seemed to relax and play his game. I did not expect him to get much ice time but he played a lot! Towards the end of the game players were forgoing their shifts so he could take their spot as they wanted him to get his first college point. That will have to wait for another day but does that gesture show you what kind of guys are on that team or what!

After the game you could not have taken the smile off his face or mine with a crowbar! I gave him a hug, told him how proud I was of him and headed home.

Alina and I are looking forward to three more years of watching his college career unfold and hopefully one day in the next couple of years going through a similar night with Mitch.

Thanks for letting me share one of the best damn nights I have every had in my entire life.

Wishing each of you the best life has to offer.

Al