Nothing like a little home cookin'

Nothing like a little home cookin'

Heading into the final game before break, the men's basketball team had dropped five consecutive games and owned a 2-6 record. The 2-6 mark was a bit deceiving considering the rugged level of competition the Nor'easters had come across in the early going (UNE's setbacks have come to opponents with an aggregate record of 41-8).

So, what was the tonic for the ailment? Nothing like a little home cookin' to change the tone heading into a three-week layoff.

The Nor'easters took down UMaine Farmington, 81-67, last Saturday (Dec. 12) in what was just their second home game of the semester. The Big Blue have now won 16 straight at the friendly confines of the Campus Center -- a streak that dates back more than a year.

Since Jason Mulligan's arrival in 2007, his teams are 25-6 at home.

Maybe it's the familiar surroundings. Possibly it's the absence of a long bus trip. Certainly it's the loyal support of the Nor'easter faithful.

On behalf of all the members of the Athletics Department at UNE, I would like to wish each of you an enjoyable holiday season.

For those of you heading home for the holidays, enjoy the home cooking. I know I will!

Getting caught up

Getting caught up

Admittedly, it's been a while since 'Blogging up a Storm' has contained fresh material. Since the last post, things have been happening at a frenetic pace with the conclusion of the fall sports season and the start of the winter schedule (at least that's my excuse, and I'm sticking to it).

The field hockey team captured the institution's first ECAC Championship, edging Plymouth State 3-2 on Nov. 16. Senior Taryn Flagg recorded all three UNE goals, including her school-record 23rd tally of the sesaon 2:13 into overtime to give the Nor'easters the title in thrilling fashion. First-year back Emily Koehler was selected the Most Outstanding Player of the championship for her fine defensive work and solid play.

After smashing virtually every single-season and career record the program has, Flagg was chosen third team all-America and first team all-ECAC to cap a brilliant playing career.

Despite the women's soccer team's disappointing loss in the opening round of the TCCC Championship, the Nor'easters earned an ECAC Tournament berth and advanced to the semifinal round.

With the winter sports season already more than a month underway, the Nor'easters have enjoyed a pair of notable victories. The women's basketball team defeated nationally-ranked Southern Maine (No. 13) for just the second time in 37 meetings, while the men dropped UMass Dartmouth -- the nation's No. 8 team at the time -- three days later.

Final exams loom on the horizon, then the student body will get some time away to enjoy.

We wish you all the best during this holiday season.