Since late August a similar, essential routine has transpired at colleges throughout the mid-Atlantic.

It's taken many forms;

A new student sharing her email address at an involvement fair.  An awkward "name & hockey history" introduction in a campus conference room.  Links to 'learn more,' emails of interest, likes on Facebook. 

New players reaching out, DVCHC veterans reaching back.  

The introductions evolved quickly, they had too.  Strangers then, teammates now, friends perhaps for life.  Who knows, let's go.

Maryland's girls washed cars and IUP's players tie dyed T-Shirts.  Villanova's new and returning volunteered for a church.  Towson piled on for a pyramid photo.  Navy donned dress whites for theirs.  

Events, workouts, fundraising and of course practice, where long-time players showed their stuff & newbies shakily tested skates for the first time.

Now these similar September steps have lead teams to the games of October.

This Sunday in Philadelphia, a D1 vs D2 match-up will open the DVCHC's 14th women's season - UPENN and SAINT JOE'S vying for bragging rights in the rink they both call home.

While the event won't move the standings, the opener will kick-start the league's massive 100 game season.  From there it will stretch across 6 states & 5 months to 1 epic finale on Valentines Day, 2016.

That final weekend, strangers who met across tables in August will share a cheer in February, gloves together, matching in uniform and purpose.  A team.