Another Fishing Story...

"Well Pop Tom" quipped Nana Lucy as they began their 200 mile retreat to Rockland County as the snow began in earnest minutes after the final ceremonies at the N.E. Sports Center, "how are you gonna 'splain this?" Nice try," retorted the 'grumpy geriatric' "but I ain't no Ricky Ricardo, Lucy." Yes, the Pearl River Pirate Squirt A team came ever so close to completing the Hat Trick; joining the Mites and Pee Wee travel teams as tournament champions. But it was not to be. Their valiant fight ended at 23 seconds of the third overtime period in their 6-5 defeat at the hands of the Hetland Panthers. The New Bedford, Ma. squad proved equal to the task, rallying twice from two goal deficits to win this thriller on a power play shot from the point passed a screened Liam McCullough. Our lads demonstrated their own come back ability forcing overtime on the strength of a Ryan McLinksey goal midway through the third period to stop the bleeding. Our 4-2 lead had become a one goal deficit in the span of three minutes late in the second and early in the final period. As the two weary travelers pulled into the driveway and color began to appear in the white knuckles of the driver, the 'boisterous blogger' waxed philosophical. "Losing is what makes winning so special. Imagine the opportunity this presents the team for next week at the State Championships." Nana poked the old man and said, "I get it... that is why you go fishing day after day, even when you come home empty handed with another 'one that got away story." Responded the 'Hooter,' "Yup, every day the boat starts and I get home safely, every day that we enjoy a youth hockey game and we get home safely, God has blessed us."