As a varsity team (and due to problems securing fields in Omaha), we earned the right to host multiple games in West Des Moines this year. the schedule currently shows Valley playing eight of their regular season games at home; six will be in Valley Stadium. There will also be a third game each day featuring the other two teams, meaning that a total of 12 games will be in town. This significantly cuts our travel requirements and gives us a home field advantage. We are also working to set up two non conference games against teams from Minnesota and/or Kansas City. As the schedule is finalized, I will post the home dates on this blog (everything will also be posted on the Valley site).With so many games in central Iowa this spring, I am asking everybody to come out and support the team. Do not think of it as merely another Valley team; it is the symbol of the sport's future in Iowa. Besides, we currently have players from Valley, Waukee, Dowling, and Ballard. Remember, the Capitals started as the Valley/Dowling hockey team and are now one of two Des Moines metropolitan teams in their league (not to mention the "house" league featuring multiple schools). Please bring out friends and family, particularly those interested in coaching and/or playing. I am also inviting the girls' team; perhaps we can hook them up for a game against a visiting team's female side...
Speaking of new players, I am in the process of setting up some recreational lax days. We could be looking at full fledged pick up games or merely Toss Arounds; I will decide as the time approaches. I am hoping that there will be a chance for both instruction and play. Based on the current Valley practice and tentative game schedules, I would say that we are looking at April (but possibly as early as March 20). Considering the weather we have suffered through this year, that will probably be for the best.
Don't forget that MCLA play is also about to get underway. Iowa State kicks off their season on Friday, February 26 in Lincoln, NE. About a month later (March 27 & 28), they host St. Cloud State and Marquette in Ames. A few former Valley laxers are attending ISU this year, but only one has shown interest in continuing his career. I have also been working with our supporting high schools to allow ISU to host Iowa in late April; otherwise that game will be in Ames.
Speaking of the Hawkeyes, their season is already off to a good start following a 20-2 schlacking over Cornell. Four additional home games are currently scheduled, including a matchup with Palmer on April 24. Valley's leading scorer, Luc Jacobs, is attending Iowa this year but has apparently decided to take the season off.Other Iowa schools fielding MCLA teams this year:
Palmer Chiropractic - Davenport
Cornell - Mount Vernon
Dordt - Sioux Center
Northwestern College (Orange City) has suspended its team this season.
Click here to check your favorite school's MCLA schedule.
If you have any suggestions, questions, or requests, please do not hesitate to post them below or contact me.
