HI All:
 
A quick view from the left coast. Took me a few days to realize the
finality, no way to see the Engineers in Anaheim, and then ... that I
might be rooting for St. Lawrence :-( or (gasp!) dreaded Clarkson :-( :-)
 
Seriously, it seems to me way out here in the boonies, that there is one
way for the ECAC to become higher ranked and more respected, of course
that is to get better.  They have one advantage, they can expand their
schedules, the max is 32 so teams like RPI and Clarkson can go to 34 and
with exemptions, 36 I believe, and the ivies can expand to 30 or 32 ...
that and making sure that each team tries to get some challenging early
season matchups.  I think we call this the Clarkson model. Strong
opponents early, play tough, learn perhaps lose, but then be stronger in
the long run, win later in the season against good teams. That is the key.
 
I am hoping RPI does the same next year. No offense to Union, but
scheduling should never, if possible, include a non-league game against a
leaguemate.
 
Of course, with more games, some MAAC teams could get a shot.  Just one
person's view on making the ECAC just a bit more competitive... I for one,
do not think they are very far away ... I believe the leagues are closer
together than fans of each league might want to believe.
 
Tony Buffa
RPI '64 ... who will root for ECAC teams at Anaheim, if they just can make it.
 (gasp, even Clarkson :-)
 
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