Garth McQueen  04/11/2003 11:33 AM
		 
Mark: It is with a heavy heart (and some heavy rocks from me) that I will 
relate the story of our last game.  Much like our current Virus problems 
at work, opening this note will unleash pain and agony.  I am not sure 
what happens in this league but it seems there is a certain segment that 
tend to hide throughout the season only to appear in the playoffs...this 
segment is comprised of Provincial champions, Bonspiel experts and the 
last straw ...a Canadian Mixed Champion skip. Oh yes, that was who 
magically appeared last night.  We tried to be sympathetic as we listened 
to how they were all so tired from playing in 3 bonspiels in 3 weeks. And 
yes, we know that going to the finals means you play more games, but 
crap...give us a break. I commend George for succinctly describing our 
team to our opponents "We play once a week".  On well, enough of the whining.

Game summary: they took the first 3 ends plus 5 & 7. The ice was very fast 
at the beginning of the game and tightened up later. This team seems to 
prefer things tight, as we played them even up in the last 4 ends.  Final 
score 6-5. On the score sheet it would indicate we were close but I think 
that flattered us more than them. 

We seemed to have peeked to early in the playoffs or it could be that as 
we progressed we came up against seasoned curlers. At times I felt like a 
rack of ribs as our opposition picked away at us. Our last two matches 
were against very good players. Yes, I know you will say  that would be 
expected when the opposing teams shows up with 4 men, eight arms, eight 
legs and eight eyes but I really miss the retirees and physically handicapped.

Not much more to say other than Golf is not the only place for 
Sandbaggers. I commit to being C flight champions next year and let if be 
known we took the last end of the year to propel us into victory next 
year. As the Iraqi ambassador has said " the game is over, it is now time 
for peace". How true that is and I know the entire team will be looking 
for a little piece over the coming months. 

NB: A final edition "Pioli Papers - Year End Review" will appear next week 
at it's regular time. Please pass on any significant memories to be included. 
NBB:  In a deft move, Bruce and Garth declared the status of " No Tickets" 
for entire 2003-2004 season. It pays to look ahead. 



Mark Pioli  04/11/2003 01:07:42 PM

Much like Iraq, a couple of more bombs from me won't do much more damage 
as the team is already rubble.

Mark 1st sub platoon