From the Ashes

This is usually the part where we try and tell you that it's a big weekend and everything's going to be alright.

We can't make that promise. We offer just one word: hope.

We're talking about the ECAC here. Anything can and will happen. RPI was supposed to finish in first place last year, look how that turned out. Colgate was supposed to finish in first place this year, look how that turned out. The sooner you realize that no one knows anything or can predict anything, the quicker you're going to be at peace with whatever happens.

On what planet was RPI, losers of nine straight and just coming off a win against the league punching bag, going to sweep Colgate and Cornell, even at home? Well, they did. That happened.

They may no longer have the benefit of home ice advantage, and things may look dark now. But it's possible. Anything is possible. They did it once, they can find a way to do it again. For a team that's struggling to keep the puck out of the net, what more could you ask for than the weakest scoring travel partner duo in the league?

For the women, it's a bittersweet farewell this weekend. We've known for a few weeks that it would be wrapping up tomorrow afternoon at the Field House. No wild scenarios where they could pull into 8th. No drama. Two games, and the end of a difficult season are at the doorstep. But it's a weekend where the Engineers can at least seek the solace of a strong finish to their season. They beat Brown last Saturday. Last year against Cornell in Troy, they came tantalizingly close to pulling out some points. They're tied in the standings with Colgate.

No promises, but a strong weekend could see the Engineers finish off a tough year with three wins, a light at the end of the tunnel finish that would be a great platform to build off for next season. It would also at least guarantee a 9th place finish, the highest final spot the Engineers could hope for.

Things look bad, there's no question. But you're an RPI fan. Whether you're an alum, a student, a townie or otherwise, you're cut from rougher stuff. Know that. Strap in, strap on, and hold tight. This isn't over until we decide it is.