Complete with our 'warpaint' (eye black) we played New Canaan at the Winter Club of New Canaan, an outdoor facility with 'old-time' fence. Playing at the Winter Club is always different, and always fun. Abandoning any thought of 'systems' including our 2-2-1, we just played -- for 'fun', I hope. Our goaltending, by both goaltenders, was superior, especially playing in bright sunlight. Trailing New Canaan for most of the first and second period by a goal, we scored twice in the third to secure our sixth win of the season. In what still remains an absolute mystery to me, I can't figure out why it seems we play so much slower whenever we play outside on smaller rinks. I am also having a difficult time trying to understand why, when you play a sport like basketball, you all never need coaches reminding you to go to the net, step towards the ball, block out or 'pick' opponents or, most importantly, talk to your teammates. This game, any game, becomes so much easier, played with basic athletic understanding, common especially with players who play many different sports. It should be easy for us. Because of excellent, experienced coaching and players who want to win, New Canaan is always a formidable opponent. I expect nothing else next week at the tournament. They will want to win just as badly as we do. Watch out!

If you're going to be a champion, you must be willing to pay a greater price than your opponent. -- Bud Wilkinson