Without falling into clichés, the essence and substance of the message that the new year brings is hope for a better world and league. With the arrival of 2015 and the new opportunities that it brings, we must start fresh with the best of what we have to share while leaving behind any negative energy. Without engaging in resolutions simply to do so, lets look in the depths of our being and make a statement by giving ourselves a game plan to start the new year. I wish to all those whose eyes will cross these pages, a real good year, not the crap lifestyle they try to sell us on the tube.

With the end of 2014 and the arrival of 2015 it was time not only to take a look at  my personal life but that of our league. I am extremely happy to announce that the LFA website has experienced a dramatic increase in visits during the first four months of the season with an increase of 120% of trafic compared to last year. This encourages me and our various collaborators because ultimately all the work and hours spent on the creation and implementation of our online site is not in vain and resonates with you guys. Our Facebook page also grew and, not wanting to be too optimistic, it looks good going forward.

Speaking of what happens next, book January 14th in your agenda to come and celebrate with us the unveiling of our new jerseys and brand new logo for the All-Star teams that will also be used by our members at tournaments and special events such as the match that will take place between the champions of the LFA and those of our sister league, La Ligue Elite during the month of May this year. There are some interesting things happening in the LFA, trust me! The event will be held January 14th at our new sponsor, St. Paul Pub in Old Montreal at 6:00 pm and as usual I will find door prizes to compliment the evening that will be featuring the Canadiens game, a pool table, and other games for those who like action. A little tournament with that?! I do not have to remind you of the importance of events like this. Bring your wives, girlfriends or cousins because there is plenty of space under the big top.

Those who want to see themselves in action, visit the photo section to see the best pictures from December and other games for which I received the pictures late to say the least. I want to thank Miguel Legault for participating in our virtual Christmas card which was a great success and Matthew Peris who, with his collaboration as General Manager of Galeries Terrebonne made it possible. To close  things out, I want to congratulate Larry, our newest winner of the LFA player of the month powered by Sher-Wood who broadened the spectrum of potential candidates for this honor. Indeed, even if since the beginning of this facet of the league I encourage our members to look further than just the players and goalies statistics before making their choice, Laurent or Larry for short is the first "plumber / power forward " to receive the award, although he mainly plays D this season. He did not win because he had a month amassing points like a juggler in a bowling game, but for his commitment and dedication to the league. His integrity in the game and work ethic make him a proud competitor that many could and should take example from.

I almost forgot yesterday's games, it was fun ! With great atmosphere in the rink with fans that came to cheer on the boys in hard fought games. Another Satnite hockey classic for the books !

With that, have a nice week and start the year with a bang!

JFD (AS TRANSLATED BY MATTHEW PERIS)