Lessons learned

Most times, a certificate of participation is viewed as an adult's proof of having to sit through some sort of training. This certificate, however, is much different.

It's much more than a piece of paper, as it represents the first-ever summer hockey camp that Colin attended since strapping on skates more than three years ago. I'll tell you, too, that Colin truly earned it. Nearly 18 hours of ice time and six solid hours of off-ice conditioning will go a long way.

It's easy to admit, too, that I took something away from camp. Watching as much of his ice time as my work schedule allowed, I picked up some new skating and passing drills for Colin to work on over the rest of his summer vacation.

He also learned what it's like to play in soaking wet equipment. After taking part in a water fight inside the locker room because he wanted to "get wet and have fun," he learned -- once again -- the consequences for his actions. I soaked most of his gear, save for his gloves and helmet, and sent him out onto the ice, dripping wet, for a two-hour afternoon session. Needless to say, "Drip" got the point.

Years from now, both of us will look back upon the past week as part of the strengthening foundation of his hockey and life skills. There's still a long way to go, but it's times like this that push the puck forward.

Here's a picture from Thursday, when former Tampa Bay Lightning player Brian Bradley led the campers through a spirited workout/clinic. Colin's in the front row, second from right, wearing his gold-and-black P.A.L. Stars jersey.

The hockey camp, however, wasn't the only thing we did last week. Stop by Baseball Mondays to see what else kept us busy.