Hockey Night in Dubuque

I often forget about the excitement generated by an ICE HOCKEY game.
The rush of the world's fastest team sport combines with crunching hits and the lightning-quick reflexes of the combatants to create a truly memorable experience.
Last night, my brother-in-law and his family joined us for a playoff game in the UNITED STATES HOCKEY LEAGUE -- America's top junior league -- between our hometown DUBUQUE FIGHTING SAINTS and the visiting FARGO FORCE.
John Gaudreau and Shane Sooth scored goals as the Saints beat the Force, 2-1, to take a 2-0 series lead.
Dubuque goaltender Matt Morris also starred, making a string of difficult saves. Fargo's lone goal snuck past Morris while he was screened by a group of players.
Dubuque's MYSTIQUE COMMUNITY ICE CENTER is a beautiful facility, a fitting edifice for a city that has reinvented itself in the time that we have lived here.
I really should have attended a Saints game sooner than last night, but I expect the excitement of the sport will prompt me to return.