A Year in Review

I never gave conclusion to my year abroad and this partially stemmed from the idea of not wanting it to end. It was an immeasurable and unforgettable experience. Not only did I learn a lot about myself, but I also learned where in the world I felt most at home.

Since my return to quote-on-quote normal life, it has been difficult to settle in and feel completely comfortable as it seems like I have given up a vital part of my life on a whim. Regardless of comfort, it has been great spending time with my family. I owe them a lifetime for allowing me to have gone on such a great adventure.

I want to thank everyone who made the course of the last year possible.

In particular I want to thank:

MMU's courses advanced my knowledge in British Literature while firming up my writing skills. Without poetry workshop, my collection, Stains, would not have been possible. Jean Sprackland gave me the confidence my creative writing techniques had an enormous potential. Although Stains will remain in a file folder under my desk, I am truly proud of my writing accomplishment.

The Manchester Metros were and will remain a huge part of my everyday self. We've created great memories on and off the ice and I am thrilled with the opportunity they gave me to further my hockey career.

Lastly, a tremendous thanks to anyone and everyone who has taken time from their day to read one post, five posts, 20 posts, or every post. Whether you're family, friend, or a complete stranger, I hope you've enjoyed what you've read and if you're thinking about studying abroad, I highly recommended it!

I have a two-year plan that will hopefully land me back on the shores of England ready to pick up where I left off.

Things I've Learned: Part II
1. The weather drastically changes within seconds; the forecast is always about 99% incorrect— but that fact is irrelevant because rain or some form of precipitation at some point is inevitable.

2. A hoodie and track bottoms in the U.S. is considered comfort clothing; it’s the chav style there so I always tended to avoid that comfort look…

3. Derby Day is proper intense in and around Piccadilly Station. Be on guard and avoid red and City blue if you don’t wish to be heckled by the latter.

4. One can get swept away by sports teams at any age. My inclusion at St. Mary’s by the Mackinnon family was an experience only rivalled by my enjoyment of Carolina sports. The Saints’ return to the Premier League comes via their brilliant back-to-back promotions. I am happy for the Mackinnon’s who have supported the Saints through good and bad; I am grateful they took me along for the ride this season! I am forever linked with Southampton. We hate Pompey!

5. The smaller football grounds have the best atmospheres, hands down.

6. Nuts is well… that’s some magazine. Lucy Pinder… Peta Todd… Sophie Reade… Yum.

7. Croatia boasts some of the most beautiful females in the human race. It is also just a fantastic country to visit.

8. The A&E on a Saturday night is full of personality.

9. The TV programmes are hilarious; the FCC needs to sod off.

10. I’ve learned too much from Snog Marry Avoid? and I only watch that programme for Ellie Taylor. The Scouse Brow is the scariest thing ever… EVER. It makes the lasses look continually angry.

11. Saying “zed” versus “z” makes a lot more sense, especially now when I think Americans are saying “c”…

12. Sundays are something to look forward to. Nothing better than a Sunday roast!

13. It’s not really a point just a mere fact, but I played an ice hockey game in the Czech Republic. Never in any of my years playing hockey would I have ever dreamed up making that journey. Tremendous thanks to Michal Rudecky and the UTB Hockey Team for a truly amazing week.

14. The FIFA apology rules.

15. The Manchester Metros.

16. Exchange your Scottish bills for English bills and vice versa. One may refuse to accept the payment considering the other, “not real money.”

17. Beans on toast.

18. Crosswalks are optional.

19. The French generalise all annoyances as, “those damn Americans.”

20. “ua find out that me ed gon drop a 4 of in the corner cos that slag toss'er face out for scraps.” Unsure what I was even trying to say, but it was my best Brad Valentine impression.
21. Every great joke includes a reference to Jeremy Clarkson and the way he dresses.
22. Parents love hearing their son/daughter’s drunk stories. Regardless of how messy it is, it is always welcomed with a chuckle.
23. “The Big Bang Theory: sponsored by GiffGaff, the mobile network run by you.”
24. A keyboard without the “£” sign is one useless keyboard.
25. At the end of the day, nothing beats the British weather when you’ve spent a week in 20-25C temperatures—refreshing clouds!

Thank you,
Allen x

Metros Swansong

I concluded my Metros career this past Friday in a 4-6 loss to Blackpool Seagulls. It was a trial of a game that saw us fall behind, catch up, only to fall behind shortly after. Definitely frustrating, but the effort needed to pursue a victory was there. We just came up a few minutes too short. Blackpool fielded an experienced team that passed the puck with great speed. The Metros fielded a mixed team of A-C players.

As a final outing, win or lose, I wanted to go down fighting. I netted my first off a rebound on the back post as I fired into the gaping net. My second followed from another rebounded that I snuck thru the goalie's pads. Finishing off a stellar year, I completed my second hat-trick off a rebound from a shot from the point.




The three tallies totaled to nine goals and four assists in the last three friendly matches-- excluding the Clermont trip. Throughout the BUIHA Cup Competition I notched a total of 14 points (7 goals, 7 assists) in seven games. The 8th game vs. Sheffield was forfeited due to no game sheet being turned in. I was proud to be a part of the most productive line-- the three of us in the top 10 in Division 1 North, 1st, 5th, and 8th.

Without question, the 2012/13 Manchester Metros campaign was a tremendous success. Each game was met with the common goal to perform at the highest level possible.

Goodbye Mill Point

Saturday saw the end of my contract at Mill Point. It has been a fantastic place to call home for the last 10 1/2 months. I have met several great folk via Mill Point that I will consider friends for life. Overall I am thankful for their hospitality. I absolutely loved the en-suite experience as my room had its own signature personality.

Following the conclusion at Mill Point I've enjoyed wonderful nights with hockey friends, Brumby x2. Chris and John welcomed me into their home before I made the transfer to the quaint Cheadle on Tuesday.

Sunday night saw one of my most productive in a Manchester Metros uniform as the team beat Aardvarx A, 9-5, in a friendly in Blackburn. It was convincing win that saw the line combination of Gunn-Brown-Etherington combine for 8 goals from textbook passing.

I have one more run-out in a Metros jersey on Friday night at Deeside versus the Blackpool Seagulls. Every "end" has been a tremendous honor as I look back on my year abroad as a truly successful experience. It includes being top points scorer across Div 1 North & South, a Cup Competition Title, a BUIHA Playoff Championship, a poetry collection, visits to 8 countries, and several great friendships. Oh, and I learned a lot in my lectures!

The last week in the UK will be great!

Tallin, Estonia

Finally getting around to this one!
Last Wednesday I had the opportunity to travel and spend one day in Estonia's capital city, Tallinn.
Once again, the weather was cooperating just perfectly.
Thru Tallink Silja, I easily booked my ferry across the Gulf of Finland.
Although Estonia can be accessed without disruption, it can be affected by lack of sleep.
I had spent much of the previous night with Jussi & his brother at a 4th of July celebration.

My original idea was to visit St. Petersburg in Russia, but that required a lengthy visa process.
I can say I have visited a former USSR Satellite State.
Regardless, Tallinn was a great choice as it's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In 2011, it was the European Capital of Culture (shared with Turku, Finland).
What I like most about Tallinn is its contrast between new and old.
It is something that is seen throughout the city.
I enjoyed a relaxed day in Estonia, which was much needed.
The park located next to the Old Town provided shade from the sun.

Now I will let a few photos take center stage.

(I feel my blog writings have taken a few hits due to the terrible new layout system blogger uses. Just an FYI why my last few posts have seemed a little lackluster! I can't arrange photos or type layouts the way I used to as I am awful with HTML.) 
 

Viru Gate, an entrance to the Old Town.

Alexandre Nevsky Cathedral

St. Nicholas' Church

Helsinki, Day 1 & 2

For starters, a dream of mine since 2005 has been to visit Finland. A peculiar selection you might be asking yourself? Finland is home to my favorite band and guitarist-- Children of Bodom and their, Alexi Laiho. I had read a Guitar World issue entitled The Virtuoso Issue: The Super Guitarist. Depicted on the front were guitar giants Zakk Wylde and Steve Vai. Nestled between the two American legends was the 26-year-old, Alexi Laiho. After reading his article, checking out his shred licks, and listening to COB, I had found an idol.

So this trip was just a shy under 8 1/2 years in the making. A trip that I could not let slip by me as Finland seemed so close all year. Not only do I cross it off my list, but I got to visit a good friend who came to UNCG last year. He welcomed me to Finland, but also into his apartment for the week.

Day 1 (Arrival) ; Day 2 (Sightseeing)

I arrived into Finland this past Monday night, a bit groggy from leaping 2 hours ahead of UK time. That and I had only briefly prepared myself for how bright the nights would be. But pay no mind, Jussi had me awake at 7am for breakfast before he went to work. He had picked his usual spot where he said, "all the beautiful girls go here." (Can't fault him for that kind of decision making!)

My tour around Finland's capital began after a hearty breakfast that included fresh bits of salmon. The city surrounded by water looked eloquent under the blue Finnish skies. Perfect weather for any tourist. And as that, I got started on the main sights of Helsinki. From the famous Helsinki kauppatori or "main market square", I ventured east around the harbor. Along the route, I passed by Alexander Hotovistsky's Uspenski Cathedral. It loomed atop the city, rich with the Russian's architectural design c. 1862.

I next passed by Helsinki's own Helsinki Cathedral. Helsinki Cathedral is definitely one of the most iconic attractions in the city. It can be seen from the sea as a beacon between Helsinki & the nearby island, Suomenlinna. From the Cathedral I ventured up Mannerheimintie, the main shopping street. The street runs by many landmarks and museums, such as the National Museum of Finland. It continues to pass along the banks of the Töölönlahti bay, Olympic Stadium and out of the city.

By the time I returned to the market square, Jussi was on his lunch break. Neither of us were particularly hungry yet, the breakfast was just too filling! Instead we got ice cream and walked along the market. His break was over in a flash and he departed after helping me get my ticket to Suomenlinna.


Suomenlinaa (Castle of Finland; 1917) is important as the place of surrender to Russian forces. It was originally designed as Sveaborg starting in 1748 under Swedish ruler Augustin Ehrensvärd. The 6 islands are home to several sights like Ehrensvärd's grave, the old chruch, and The King's Gate. Nowadays, it is a touristic attraction as well as a place for locals to relax on the rocks.

I once again met up with Jussi following the end of his work day back on the mainland. He suggested we go back to his place to relax a bit before dinner at a restaurant he's a a regular at. Prior to arriving at the restaurant, he walked me along another harbor. There, he explained that the richest neighborhood was home to the Swedish inhabitants of Helsinki. Buzzing with hunger, we did end up arriving at a restaurant called Sea Horse. It specialized in Finnish cuisine and had done so since 1934. It is a famous place as it's served Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda, trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie and more. Under the direction of Jussi, I ordered the Scandinavian Hash. It was comprised of ham onions served amongst potatoes with a fried egg on top. So to say the least, I was very pleased with the selection!

While we were eating, Jussi's younger brother arrived. Following the meal, we were all heading to a local party to celebrate the 4th of July!

Happy Birthday, America!
And welcome to Finland!

Olympic Torch

It seems this year my timing has been impeccable.
Preceding and continuing after my arrival, Great Britain has been preparing for the Olympics. (Of course, upon my arrival they took a breather to welcome me!)

The Olympic flame arrived on British soil May 18th to begin its journey 70 day, 8,000 mile tour. It is journey that started on May 19th at Land's End, the most southwesterly point of England in Cornall.The torch relay is due to conclude on June 27th at Olympic Stadium in London. On June 6, the traveled south of Newry in Northern Ireland to Dublin.

Today was Manchester's day to get in on the act. The Torch is currently on day 36. Throughout the course of the morning, the skies opened up and relinquished a bit of English weather, but by 4PM, Mother Nature decided to cooperate. The torch endured cloudy skies, but no rain as it passed through the city centre. Today is the first of two days the torch will spend in the Lancashire city. It arrived via Blackpool and will depart in the morning via Salford as it heads to Leeds.

The Olympic Flame as a tradition was re-introduced in 1928 at the Games in Amsterdam. Since then, the Olympic Torch has been a part of every Olympic Games. I felt it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the flame. Even though it happened so quickly, the runner, the exchange, it was brilliant. Its like being a, 1.0 × 10⁴⁰ part of history and is something I won't forget.

The Olympic Games, London 2012 are only 34 days away!

Tournoi Loisir 2012 à Clermont-Ferrand

Day 1 -- After arriving in France at 11AM on an 830AM flight, day 1 of the trip began. And by began, there ARE people out there who enjoy standing in a queue more than the British: THE FRENCH. The group of hockey friends I was traveling with (A. Frewin, E. Howes, A. Mackinnon, and P. Thomson), and myself stood in line to get train tickets into Paris for longer than our flight from Manchester to Charles de Gaulle. Now if that didn't sentence made sense, then surely my French was as understandable. Cannot get far when all you know is how to compliment girls........ Prior to that, the EU travelers stood in the queue at border control for 15 minutes longer than I did (no idea how long I was in line for...). Normally I'm the one being bored senseless the "All Passports" queue.

By 1230ish we finally got into Paris. Our first stop was Notre Dame. Without soliciting for too long, we moved on to find food. You cannot blame any of us as most of us had not eaten since our awakening some odd hours earlier. We refueled with ham and cheese buttys from a side street vendor. Then began the leisurely walk to Gare de Paris Bercy where our train to Clermont-Ferrand would depart! Via Mackinnon's navigation skills we ended up in the correct area, just not the correct station-- missed the mark by about 5 minutes, but no worries as we reached the right station!

Mackinnon had made contact earlier with others from the team who were leaving from the same station on an early train. Low and behold, their train had been delayed 2 hours due to a fatality on the tracks. The delay allowed us to catch up to the others and join their train, evading an even further delay to our originally scheduled train.

CLERMONT BOUND. 3 hours of naps and Frewin spending thirty odd quid on Mars Bars, drinks, and other sorts of food. Not to mention a fiver on internet and 200 international texts. His money budgeting was working flawlessly.

Upon our arrival in Clermont, we were greeted by two of the tournament's organisers. They welcomed us warmly to Clermont and ushered us to the rink. There we met up with our 15+ hour driving Martin Klefas-Stennett who had brought our smelly hockey bags miles from home thru France.

Again, nothing is more important to a growing appetite than feeding it food. We were taken to Les 3 Brassuers which was close to our hotel. Our punctual arrival was just in time for England's match versus Sweden. Everyone (seemed to at least) cheer on England who pulled out a 3-2, come-from-behind, result.

Bed was next. Our first of six (yes, six 20 minute period games) was to start at 830AM the next morning.

Fun fact of the day: my camera decided to bow out of this trip and succumb to yet another lens error. So the quality of my photos will deteriorate in France as I was left to take photos with an Ipod. Dear Apple, give the Ipod Touch a REALLY good camera in the future. Dear Nikon, you disappoint me... This is the second time this has happened, sort it out! Dear France, just had to make my camera conk out whilst taking a photo of a shop called "American Car Wash".

Day 2 -- The tournament began bright and early Saturday morning. The Metros matched up against six teams hailing from all over France, Switzerland, as well as locally in Clermont. Granted, these results may be skewed as I am going off a confusing table... The game results are as follows:

Mont-Dore 4 : Manchester 2
Manchester 1 : Sangliers 3
Joker 1 : Manchester 0
Manchester 1 : Clermont 2

Geneva 6 : Manchester 2
Manchester 1 : Montpellier 2

Following the conclusion of the Metros final game of the day, 4 members of the team were elected to play in the All-Star game. They were Del Perona-Wright, Jeff Holliday, Alex Frewin, and myself. It was a tremendous honour to be sent to the game, even though my legs were dead!

Fun fact of the day: I was beaten on the draw several times by a 60+ year old former French Olympian. That gentleman had the fastest hands I had ever seen in my life. Let me repeat: IN MY LIFE. I hope when I am his age, I still have the ability to skate like he can. His fitness was unreal!!!

Day 3 -- The tournament concluded and was finished with a small award ceremony. It was another scorcher in Clermont with the afternoon free to recover. The weather all weekend had been a very big difference from the expected stormy weather predicted prior to departure. Each team only had 2 fixtures remaining.

Dammarie 3 : Manchester 4
Strasbourg 1 : Manchester 1

Regardless of the lackluster of wins, the tournament was a really pleasure to be a part of. I enjoyed playing tons of hockey. The line of Szepes-Gunn-Mackinnon seemed to produce and that was something to be happy with!

Fun fact of the day: Put Paddy anywhere around time that is not occupied and he will suggest getting a beer and relaxing. In France, it is not likely to be accepted with those prices. Trip tip, order water. Nothing beats free in France.

Day 4 -- At 830AM we returned to Clermont's train station for farewells. A great weekend had to come to a close. The train departed and the lot of us were on our way back to Paris. The original five had some unfinished sightseeing in Paris to do. All the big places had to be seen so I could cross them off my "to see" list. The Eiffel Tower was first on our agenda. And I will be honest, it is impressive that it is there, but it really is "meh". I found the Arc de Triomphe to be more exciting in terms of display-- due in part to my viewing of the Tour de France. I can say I have walked the Champs-Élysées where many great cyclists have grasped glory in the final stage (since 1975). Our sightseeing adventure ended with a trip to the Louvre. It is quite a picturesque scene, but the pyramid is just there. And that's about it.

The fantastic-five concluded the trip by taking the train to the airport in the wrong direction. Auber was our unscheduled stop, but no one panicked (even though our flight boarded in less than 2 hours). We broke speed-barriers and made it to the airport in just under an hour.

The shores of Britain seemed so welcoming outside the plane's window.

Fun fact of the day: Any mention of, "American" in a sentence while talking in an audible voice on the train will prompt an angry Frenchman to to turn around and shout at your group in French referring to the lot as, "a bunch of obnoxious Americans."

France in review: it was well, as depicted??? Lost for "age appropriate" adjectives on this one... The hockey guys & girls in Clermont were great and friendly. The Parisians on the other hand: as rude as I had been told they were. I just didn't really find the French experience all too appealing outside of the quaint-Clermont friends. But I found it interesting that you can buy full 2 feet-long baguettes for .28 Euros. Folks, that's 22p! That's $0.35 cents!(American). Other then that, expect to pay up the wazoo as France is expensive, expensive, and more expensive.

Disclaimer: Not trying to slag off Paris, but it is just not my cup of tea. Its really just one of those, "I went there so I can now say I've been" kind of things.

Manchester Metros Awards Night

Alistair Taylor, selected the club's Most Improved Player.

This past Wednesday night marked the first (and hopefully annual tradition) of the Manchester Metros Awards Night. It saw teammates from across all three teams come together for awards, long winded speeches, several laughs, and of course many pints. The location for the festivities was Manchester's Jabez Clegg Beer Hall.

To start the evening, current committee members discussed and presented the progress of the club over 2011/12 campaign. The club, which had entered the year with allowances was debt free. Also, as an organisation the club extended its boundaries via social media (Facebook, Twitter) to reach a broader audience. The Metros saw themselves competing abroad in an international friendly during March against UTB Hockey Team in the Czech Republic. While the brand of Manchester Metros will remain a small entity in comparison, British ice hockey has taken leaps and bounds forward to be recognised in mainland Europe.

Andrew Mackinnon (left), was the C team's clinical finisher.

The new committee for the 2012/13 season was introduced. Members who will retain their current position on the board are as follows: Matthew Rohani (Secretary), Shayne Langois (Vice-President), and Liam Jacques and Patrick Thomson (both as treasurers). Newcomers to the committee are Ben Brown was selected as President of the organisation, Andrew Mackinnon as Social Secretary, Dec Ryan and Benn Robinson who will both oversee the Kit Secretary role, and Scott Stevens appointed as Tour Secretary. Matthew Rohani's experience as a 2nd year secretary will hopefully be easier than his first. His positive attitude helped keep the club afloat all year long.

Alex Frewin (left), presented with B team MVP & MetroStar.

But tonight, was all about the members of an organisation that has grown monumentally within the last few years. The C team which was established this year mainly as a development competed in BUIHA's Division 3 North, finishing in a strong second place (only trailing Edinburgh Beagles). Self-proclaimed M3tros, were headed by their clinical finisher, Andrew Mackinnon, who peppered goalies for 8 goals and 10 assists. His partners in crime were the speedy Jack Walker and the finesse hands of Ashaan Waithe-Bousquet.

The Metros B team struggled to keep healthy, but finished middle of the road in Division 2 North. Led by physical play, the team was matched against some of the best import players. Their main spark was in captain, Mark Szepes, who was the team's main offense. The B team had several players make the leap to the A team to fill empty voids. Both John and Chris Brumby helped the short-manned A team win crucial points away at Newcastle. The goalie for that night was also a B team member, William Wells. On two occasions Alex Frewin found himself playing extended minutes versus Newcastle and Sheffield (both at home).

Martin Klefas-Stennett, Del Perona Honour winner.

Rounding out the organisation's teams, the Metros crème de la crème A team, finished top of the table in Division 1 North and added a regular season title to their accolades. The star-studded team was held together by goalie Robyn Maby who continually lent her skills to game-winning saves. The most memorable is her glove save against Sheffield Bears in the final game of the season. Her save protected the team's 4-2 lead and eventually made way for team to be crowned regular season champions as Edinburgh Eagles couldn't prevail against Newcastle.

Moving on, the awards began.

Individual Awards: (Winners in bold-faced italics)
Most Improved Player -- Alistair Taylor, Jessica Vigne, Tom Jones
Most Valuable Player (A) -- Tom Wilson, Max Drakeley, Robyn Maby
Most Valuable Player (B) -- Alex Frewin, Mark Szepes, Oliver Wallace
Most Valuable Player (C) -- Ashaan Waithe-Bousquet, Stephen Harvey, Jack Walker
Katy "Goon" Holliday Award -- Shayne Langlois, Richard Renshaw, Jonathan Brumby
Best Offensive Defenseman -- Gino Poulin, Max Drakeley, Jonathan Brumby
Best Two-Way Forward -- Tom Wilson, Allen Gunn, Jack Walker
Dick of the Year -- Michael Zyczkowski (Playing with a broken stick at Nationals)
MetroStar -- Kieren De'Ath, Chris Brumby, Alex Frewin
Del Perona Honour -- Martin Klefas-Stennett

The Division 1 Team celebrates their successful campaign.

Team Honours:
Chairman's Trophy -- Metros A Team (Regular Season Champions, Playoff Champions)
Top Goalscorer (A) -- Joe Holder
Top Goalscorer (B) -- Mark Szepes
Top Goalscorer (C) -- Andrew MacKinnon
Top Points Scorer (A) -- Allen Gunn
Top Points Scorer (B) -- Mark Szepes
Top Points Scorer (C) -- Andrew MacKinnon

Following the completion of the awards, teammates mulled around chatting with others, finishing drinks, and buying more. The party moved to the usual Metros hangout, Courtyard for further indulgence. A successful year, concluded in a successful awards night. Congratulations to all teams!

Photos courtesy of MJ Photography.

London with the Wiese Family

I had yet to see Tower Bridge during my visits to London.

This past Saturday I was reunited with my second family, the Wiese family, in London.
I took the first train into London to spend a full day with them.

I was greeted by Thorben at Euston Station at an early 8 am and we headed back to the hotel they were staying at. After a small breakfast of Nestea and croissants, Thorben, Valts, and I left to enjoy the sunny day. The weather promised to be sunny and hot all day-- just another day in the collection of great weather England has been having.

Thorben, Valts, and I headed to Tower Bridge first (they had done all their sightseeing the previous day).

The Underground was stuffier than usual due to the intense heat above ground. Fortunately I had dressed for the weather.

Once we finished our walk across Tower Bridge, we headed back up the Thames. We were in no hurry as we all really just wanted to enjoy the day.

Next stop on the list was to see Millennium Bridge, the site of the Death Eaters torment of Muggles in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. Though in the film, Millennium Bridge is a representation of Brockdale Bridge.

At one end of the bridge sits the a reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and Tate Modern Gallery. Opposite sits the City of London School and rising above the other buildings, St. Paul's Cathedral.

The bridge is very interesting because of the swaying motion a pedestrian feels as they walk across. It is due in part to several factors such as the wind, trains, traffic, and pedestrians themselves. I particularly think it is an advanced and state of the art pedestrian bridge. It is definitely a neat design.

By the time we had crossed Millennium Bridge, the three of us were starting to get hungry. Thorben mentioned a sushi bar located behind St. Paul's Cathedral, but unfortunately it was closed for the day for renovation.

We put our budding minds together to find a way to locate other sushi restaurants. Our need was the internet so we went to the Apple Store at Oxford Circus. The closest sushi bar was a place called "So" which was located on Warwick Street just off of Regent Street. It received several positive reviews so we decided to try it out.

It did not disappoint!

So offers a wide range of Japanese dishes at reasonable prices. I ordered the Teriyaki Chicken which included sides of rice, soup and salad. I also couldn't prevent myself from ordering sushi. From the photo it looks like a small portion, but it is very filling and of high class for a good price.

After our meal, we headed back out to Oxford Circus to do a bit of shopping. Valts had had someone step on his sandal which ended up broken so he was looking for a new pair.

Since the day continued to remain sunny, Thorben's parents decided we should meet at St. James Park. It was a brilliant idea as I had not relaxed since the previous day.

Valts introduced me to a new card game that we all played called Wizard. Although I didn't really pick up on it, it was a nice family game to play in the shade.

The last thing on the agenda was to meet the boss of the practice that Susanne works at. He and his wife wanted to treat the Wiese family to a meal-- they extended their invite to me, which I am grateful for!

We met them at a Philippine cuisine restaurant called Josephine's. Again, it was a great quality of food. The main part of the entire day was to be reunited with the Wiese family as they all hold a special place and it always great to see them.

UNCG eNewsworthy

This past March, a representative from UNCG's IPC asked if I would write an article highlighting my time abroad and how hockey with the Manchester Metros has been a huge part of that. IPC knows of my interest in journalism and wanted to continue to give me opportunities to explore and improve on my fascination.

The article for eNewsworthy is the second article I have written this year. Earlier, UTB asked if I would illustrate the journey the Manchester Metros would take prior to leaving for the Czech Republic. The press release is highlighted on the UTB Hockey Team Facebook page and had parts translated into Czech for their local newspaper.

I include how the Metros prepared me for my study abroad experience, the duties that have bestowed upon me, the trip to Zlin, and other league highlights.

I am very grateful for all the opportunities I have been continually given to further my writing ability.

"Having the opportunity to study abroad is one thing, but it is an opportunity that needs to be fully seized. There is no better way of doing that than to be a part of club, or something you’re passionate about. To me, being abroad has been a lot about self-discovery, and I’ve learned a lot about myself through the Metros."

You can find the eNewsworthy article in its entirety at HERE.

Stains Poetry Collection

Photo Credit: C. Antico, 2012

Stains is the first poetry collection I have completed to date. It is comprised of poems written between January 2012 and April 2012 for my course, Poetry Workshop, at Manchester Metropolitan University. Outside of lyric writing for my hiatus band, Beneath Dying Embers, I really have no prior experience with poetry writing. Saying that, I did try to incorporate poetic devises while writing lyrics, but it was a secondary focus to the actual meaning.

The collection contains two sub-collections, the first is Three Nights in Czech Republic, which is a Frank O'Hara and John Ashbery influenced collection. It documents my trip to the Czech Republic with the Manchester Metros to play UTB Hockey Team in a journalist/diary feel and is quite sporadic in its occurrences.

Sub-collection two, Letters Home, is the gateway to the end of the main collection and is composed of four poems. Within this collection I have included a go at a dramatic monologue (III. Blumenthal's Belk Theater). II. Along the Riva is probably my favourite poem of the Letters Home collection. I believe it is the poem with the most depth. At first it reads like a basic setting, but when approached via a second read, it is the ONLY poem I consider to be a "love" or romantic poem within the entire collection. I purposely avoided this topic as most tend to be very cliche.

The title poem, "Stains" is a pretty humanistic poem. Upon its start, I had no intentions of it turning out the way it did. But I did enjoy creating a Shel Silverstein-esque poem. The qualities or characteristics of the poem are quite childish, but again, at further glance, it is a poem loitered with adult themes/issues.

Of the collection, "Elegy" happens to be one of my favourites. We had an accomplished poet, Adam O'Riordan visit and read to our class; he is also currently an instructor at MMU. He spoke of finding influence from different areas thru observation and this poem definitely falls underneath that umbrella.

As a first collection, and really a first attempt at poetry, I am very proud of how the poems finished-- from first draft to revising & editing, they've come a long way. I give a lot of credit to Graeme Roberts, a peer in my poetry workshop for his great editing advice. Not only was he applauding of the poems (even in draft form), he was critical in his tips to better the final product. Being able to balance the two is difficult, but Graeme was very helpful in both areas. A second thanks goes out to Louise Soothill who was also a tremendous help with the final poem in Three Nights in Czech Republic. It is difficult to be as surprising as her poems are so I turned to her expertise for advice to add "spice" to the poem.

And finally, a HUGE thanks to my tutor, poet, Jean Sprackland, who without taking her course, I would not have had an opportunity to build creative writing techniques within poetry. Also, Stains would not have been compiled as a final grade collection!

You may view Stains in its entirety HERE.

"I watch the sea lap softly against the harbor wall, my fingers
complacent against the warm stone as if pressed to your hands."

Notations: Objectivist, not confessionalist.

BUIHA Tier I Nationals

(Game 1) Manchester Metros vs. Southampton Spitfires
Southampton's 5-3-2 came via 4 forfeit wins, 3 forfeit loses, and 2 unconfirmed draws, but still boasted ENL talent-- mainly as a side that only came together for this time of year. And as last year's Tier I National Champion, the side could not be counted out by any measure. The game was a very "cat-and-mouse" kind of game. Both teams worked the puck well in the offensive zone, but were unable to create anything on net. Unfortunately for the Metros, the unnecessary 4-man zebra crew called the nitty-gritty casual hockey plays as penalties. Alas, the only goal that beat new Metros signee, Dec Ryan, was a Spitfires power play goal to the back post. The Metros continue to work extensively in the dying minutes to draw level. Taking the high road, the aggressive decision led to an empty net goal. The loss would be the Metros first taste of defeat in the 2011/2012 season. Final -- Manchester Metros 0 : Southampton Spitfires 2.


(Game 2) Warwick Panthers vs. Manchester Metros
Coming into the clash, the Metros had outscored the Panthers by a booming margin of 18-7 during the season (A: 3-7 ; H: 11-4). From this point on, every game was a must win and no better way to do so then against a foe whose number you've all season. The match-up versus the Panthers saw star-goalie, Robyn Maby, return between the pipes. The Metros found their form right from the get-go and peppered the Warwick keeper from start to finish. The team created many chances and were finally able to find the net. Unfortunately for Warwick, their was no third period to strike during as the trend in the previous games was the Metros gaining the lead only to relax before stepping on the neck and delivering a final blow. As consolation, the Panthers found twine on a PP goal late in the game. But behind Robyn's continuously performances, the team was back on track. Final -- Warwick Panthers 1 : Manchester Metros 4

(Game 3) Manchester Metros vs. Edinburgh Eagles
By far the most anticipated match on either side. The Metros and Eagles had tied both regular season meetings, a 1-1 draw at Murrayfield and a 2-2 draw at Deeside. Unfortunately a lot of the pre-game anticipation lost it's muster as Edinburgh dropped two games on day 1. To cope with the end of the season, the Eagles took to the bottle and drank the night away-- leaving behind a potentially sober team and a 10:30AM faceoff. The tempo was quick and the chances created by the Metros outnumbered the chances by Edinburgh. Normal Edinburgh standout, Neal Dolan, found himself gathering snow on his britches; he was unable to make any true impact on the game (the drinks possibly?). Dec Ryan made a few crafty saves on breakaways, but his 40 minute shutout was fairly simple. It would be the first clean sheet of the season for the Metros Div 1 side. Final -- Manchester Metros 2 : Edinburgh Eagles 0


(Game 4) Sheffield Bears vs. Manchester Metros
Survive and advance was the tag line for the meeting between the two. With Southampton completing a sweep of the group, only second place in the group remained open. The Metros once again looked to the heroics of the best, calling on Robyn Maby who performed shut down the Bears in the final game of the regular season. Unfortunately, on the first shift, top-line winger, Shayne Langlois, went down with a shoulder injury. He did not return. The top line of Holder-Gunn-Langois lost a lost of continuity right from the start and never really gelled after that with a replacement winger. The Bears then struck first halfway thru the first period on a screened shot from the point. A chance to regain a bit of composure on the Metros side was lost in transit as the Bears netted a second 1:07 after their first. A Metros offensive turnover at the blue-line led to a converted breakaway, extending the Bears lead to 3. With confidence a bit rattled, Dec Ryan came on to replace an upset, Robyn Maby. Max Drakeley pulled one back with under 5 to play, but that would be the closest the Metros would come to threatening. An empty net goal sealed Sheffield's fate to the semis. Final -- Sheffield Bears 4 : Manchester Metros 1

The loss to Sheffield concluded the Metros brilliant season, a 5-0-3 record. Manchester found themselves as cream of the crop in Division 1 North, finishing as regular season champions. Also adding to their accolades a BUIHA Div 1 Playoff Championship (8-5 win vs. Oxford). The squad just came up one result short of extending their season in search of a BUIHA Tier I National Title. All losses aside, the season should be considered a tremendous success.

As sports continually update their league formats, playoff systems, ect, the BUIHA should take into consideration drafting up a bracketed National Tournament format with seedings. The current random drawing format raises a few questions such as 1) are the best teams going thru to the semis? and 2) are teams being rewarded for their outstanding play during the regular season?

Tier 1 Nationals saw all the teams in Division 1 North in a group, minus Newcastle, while adding Southampton. Group 2, much the same. All the teams from Division 1 South, minus Oxford and Bristol, whilst adding Newcastle and newcomer to Tier I Nationals, Cardiff. Prior to the redraw the groups had a mix of both, really creating a national feel.

The groups seemed quite balanced as well. Though, a seeding system within the group format would reward the teams who proved themselves throughout the course of the year, while allowing others to have a chance to prove themselves. It would also reward those teams who had success to have the best opportunity to reach the semis and final-- which in any tournament is normally a routine process. It also allows for great hockey and potential for great upsets. In the likely event of seeding, it does help to have a far greater number of teams, but in the case of four-team groups, it is still plausible.

A second option could be to introduce a best of 3 series, with still, shortened games. Although this is highly unlikely as the time to do so is not as acquirable. But a minute concept could still be there: the introduction of a single-elimination tournament (with seeding). There are several examples of such all across the globe. Staying with hockey, the NCAA Men's & Women's National Championship is competed every year in this format. Though, ice may not be as readily available or predictable for teams.

Regardless of how smoothly run the games at all three levels of nationals have been-- and it has been like clockwork!-- moving forward, a look at the current format needs to be evaluated.

BUIHA Division 1 Playoff Final

SHEFFIELD, UK-- The Manchester Metros Div 1 side returned to Ice Sheffield Saturday afternoon to engage the Oxford Blues in a tea time BUIHA playoff final. The last time the Metros visited Sheffield the team wrapped up a Division 1 North regular season title versus hometown Sheffield Bears (W 4-2 later turned into a Sheffield forfeit). The Oxford Blues had been helped to the top of Division 1 South by a flurry of forfeits (5 total, 1/2 their season). Canadian import, Adrian Haight, led the Blues offensive attack and continue to prove himself as a worthy opponent versus the Metros defence.

The 3PM faceoff at Ice Sheffield marks the start of the 2012 post season for Division 1 teams.

The Manchester Metros started the usual suspects-- Allen Gunn centering wingers, Joe Holder and Shayne Langlois; Max Drakeley and Kieren De'Ath in defence. Gunn-Holder-Langois entered the contest as the Metros most productive and consistent regular season line, boasting a combined 36 points between the trio.

As play got underway, the Metros controlled the tempo early, establishing a dump & chase tactic early on-- but would not continue the entire game. Gunn and Langlois put the fore-check on in the opening seconds causing havoc behind the net. Langlois delivered a gut-wrenching check on Oxford's defender. The puck was sent skewing to Max Drakeley who opened the scoring just 24 seconds in.

The next segment saw Oxford respond to draw even one all. The two teams then exchanged goals between one another. Oxford seemed to lack a cohesion around the net as most goals came from 1 on 1 situations.

Fortunate enough for the Metros, they never felt a deficit until they went down 4-3. Remaining calm, the Metros rallied to score the next 3 goals, regaining the lead at 6-4 (goals from Drakeley, Brown, Holder). From then, Oxford seemed to disheartened, but were unable to cope with defeat. The Gunn-Holder-Langlois trio combined on Joe Holder's rebound goal.

Somewhere in Melrose, Scotland, Sir Walter Scott's grave is murmuring, "All in a day's work."

Robyn Maby was called upon for her usual 3rd period heroics, making save after save from scrambles in front of her net. Her stellar play frustrated the Oxford players who seemed to always be on the verge of scoring, but could not finish past the wall known as Robyn. The performance earned her Player of the Match.

Metros B teamer, James Lloyd made a cheeky remark of Robyn's performance, stating, "Who needs Batman when you have Robyn?".

Marc Ethernington capped the Metros victory celebrations with an empty netter to extend the lead, 8-5.

The handful of spectators on hand to witness the Metros 8-5 victory were highly entertained by a very fast paced contest. There seemed to be only a handful of moments throughout the three periods that had 5 on 5 hockey for an extended period of time as the referees continued to keep the game in check. The open ice, 5 on 4, 4 on 3, and 5 on 3 situations contributed to the game's tempo.

Next on the Manchester Metros agenda? A return to Sheffield next Saturday, the 28th, in search of a National tournament prize to add to their regular season championship and playoff final championship.

Manchester Metros National Schedule:
28/4 @ 1030 Manchester Metros vs. Southampton Spitfires
28/4 @1350 Warwick Panthers vs. Manchester Metros
29/4 @ 1030 Manchester Metros vs. Edinburgh Eagles
29/4 @ 1420 Sheffield Bears vs. Manchester Metros

Can be followed at: BUIHA.org

Southampton @ Peterborough

It was another Saints away trip on Tuesday!
And the best part about weekday matches: being able to wake up at a normal hour. :]
Myself, Andrew and his dad Ken hit the road to Peterborough around 1530 for the 1945 kickoff.
Ken's redemption was ensuring all 3 tickets arrived with us! :D
I think Andrew's nerves were more than enough for the other two in the car.
But to be fair, Saints were inching closer and closer to a Premiership return.



If the match at Peterborough concludes my season, it has been a great run!
Ice hockey will take over the next two weekends and they're non-miss games.
I would first and foremost like to thank Andrew for including me in the Saints' season.
There's been a tremendous atmosphere each game, unrivaled by any other experience to date.
Second, to Ken, Andrew's dad, for getting myself (and Andrew) to and from each match.
I always have a great time, regardless of result and you've both taught me well!
I know for a fact I have become a master at falling asleep in the car.
So I really, really, cannot say enough how much Saints matches have meant to me!
I know you will see us thru at Middlesbrough and at home on the final day vs. Coventry.



Photo with Saints' manager, Nigel Adkins:



As the season's end nears closer, mobiles across stadiums continued to test 3G coverage.
The Saints' push for promotion continued in Peterborough this past Tuesday evening.
With only three games remaining in the campaign, every single point is even more important.
SFC entered Tuesday evening's match 3 points behind Reading & 3 points ahead of West Ham.
Reading was hosting Nottingham and West Ham was visiting 5 point-safe Bristol City.



London Road's visitors ramped up the atmosphere before kickoff. Of the 9 1/2 thousand in the stands, Saints supporters made up a third of that-- continuing the great traveling support. After the opening kickoff, Saints supporters didn't have to wait long to have something to cheer about. Just 5 minutes into the match, Jos Hooiveld got his head onto his 7th league goal at Southampton when Fox's corner found the defender inside the box. Hooiveld seemed shaken up following the play, but continued his fine form after waving off any medical attention.

The traveling fans only settled in for a moment following Hooiveld's goal as Lallana crossed a ball from left to right to Richard Chaplow who then laid the ball off to a streaking Billy Sharp. Billy Sharp strategically placed the ball to the bottom corner, extending Saints' lead to two.

Two quick strikes from Southampton made it difficult for the Posh to settle into their own game plan. Although the Posh pushed the tempo in the midfield following Sharp's 9th minute goal, they were unable to combine for any success in their own attacking third.



The Posh had a more productive end to the first half, but the Saints were fully in control where it mattered most, on the scoreline.

The match resumed along with the wind as it gusted throughout London Road. Luckily, the rain that hung around during warmups stayed at bay. The tempo of the Saints also picked up as they looked to impose their will on the last 45 minutes. The Posh, too, continued their form from the first half as they created opportunities that they were unable to connect on.



Just under the hour mark, the Saints picked a part their host's defense for a third goal and Sharp's second of the night. It was 6 minutes later that Jos made way for defender, Aaron Martin.



Chaplow continued his search for a goal against his former manager, Darren Ferguson. He sent efforts left and right, but was unable to find the back of the net. As Chaplow's tries went begging, the opponents looked for consolation and found it on the 86th minute from a corner. The Posh goal ruined Davis' bid for another clean sheet; Peterborough 1 - Southampton 3.



Guly came on to replace Sharp as Saints looked to close out the win. Both Guly and Lambert had chances to pad their starts in added time, but sent their chances array. When the final whistle signaled, the Saints found themselves one step closer to automatic promotion.



Southampton FC Starting XI: Kelvin Davis, Danny Butterfield, Jose Fonte, Jos Hooiveld, Daniel Fox, Richard Chaplow, Jack Cork, Dean Hammond, Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert, Billy Sharp

Saints Subs: Steve de Ridder, Frazer Richardson, Dan Harding, Guly do Prado, Aaron Martin

Peterborough United Starting XI: Paul Jones, Craig Alcock, Gabriel Zakuani, Shaun Brisley, Tommy Rowe, Lee Frecklington, George Boyd, Joe Newell, Lee Tomlin, Tyrone Barnett, Paul Taylor

Posh Subs: Mark Little, David Ball, Grant McCann, Joe Lewis, Kgosi Ntlhe

Southampton (who sit on 85 points) visit Middlesbrough on Saturday. The team find themselves one positive result away from automatic promotion. Middlesbrough are on the outside looking in as they fight for a playoff spot (currently trailing Cardiff by 4 points). Reading sealed their promotion fate with a 1-0 victory against Nottingham, although they have not wrapped up the league title just yet. Reading host Crystal Palace for a tea-time kickoff on Saturday. Trailing-West Ham were only able to muster a 1-1 draw against Bristol City. West Ham are 5 points adrift from an automatic promotion spot and have a date away to Leicester City next Monday, the 23rd.