As the midpoint of July begins to fade in the distance, the thought of the upcoming season begins to set in. Hopes and aspirations will soon reach their pinnacle as tryouts begin. For returning veterans to the Oswego State Club team, the beginnings of a new season and the onset of tryouts will seem routine. As for new recruits to the team, the first meeting will be nerve racking, for most, it will be the first time having ever seen their future coach and teammates. Dryland training will seem reminiscent from high school: hot and tiring. Yet within the first couple weeks of dryland a miraculous event occurs; on ice practice begins. The smell of freshly cut ice looms around the rink as the players filter into the locker room, many anxious and eager to get their first glimpse at college hockey; to fulfill a dream.