Tears in My Eyes

Jose Valentin is close to coming back after an ACL Tear

Columbia Looks for a Little Mets Magic

Everyone in the Columbia program that I've spoken too has been very optimistic about QB Craig Hormann's recovery from an ACL tear. Most seem to believe he'll be ready for the season opener. I have to admit I've been optimistic too, but also a little leery of those predictions.

But then I read about the Mets' Jose Valentin and his expected quick return from an ACL tear.

Now, I realize Valentin has only a partial tear, but I suppose it's possible Hormann was also not the victim of a full-blown tear as well. Of course, I'm not a doctor, but there does seem to be a little more evidence to back up the optimism in Hormann's case. Considering how well he finished the 2006 season, there is certainly good reason to hope Craig be back to start all 10 games in 2007.





Where are the Ivies?

I live just 8 minutes away from Hofstra's Shuart Stadium where this year's New York City vs. Long Island all-star high school football game, known as the Empire Challenge, will be played on June 28th. So, I'm more than a little bummed that only one incoming Ivy freshman is going to be playing, and its Brian Giesecke, a defensive end recruit going to Penn from Chaminade High School in Manhasset. There are a good number of incoming Ivy players from New York City and Long Island, but I guess they either weren't chosen to play or could not make the commitment.


Call for Stories!!!

And I'm still waiting to hear from more of you about your first memories of Columbia football. Tell me about it in the comments section or email me at novak.jake@gmail.com and I'll put it all up in a real post for our own "For Lions Fans Only!" chronicle.