I can’t draw any similarities as to what is going on right now with this pandemic. Never thought I would read or hear that word. Never thought we would, as nations, be trying to suppress a virus by virtually rearranging life as we know it. Using the now tethered phrase: This is surreal.
The preparation and the unknowns do remind me of the early ’60s when Americans were told to stock up on supplies and prepare for a possible nuclear attack, stemming from the Cuban Missile Crisis as the U.S. and the then-U.S.S.R. were very close to launching attacks. But life went on with civil defense drills and remaining vigilant. It was a time of uncertainty and being scared.
But nothing like this, where the globe is under attack and we all have detached in effort to survive. We as humans thrive on communal togetherness and love to experience the highs and lows of the following of something in common.
Hello, Banditland, the most loyal community in sport.
After that Rod Serling (host of “The Twilight Zone”) monologue, I thought it would be a good idea to check-in with a sampling of Bandit players and how they are doing:
Bandits captain Steve Priolo:
“During this time of social distancing and isolation, Jacqui and I have gone to Muskoka Woods, the deep woods, to lend a helping hand to her brother in building his dream log home. Of course, with no home built yet, we are staying in the van.”
Mitch de Snoo:
“I was always supposed to be on spring break this week [he also attends the University of Toronto Medical School] so I’ve had nothing to do. School is going to be completely transitioned to online [classes] when it resumes Monday. Luckily in the first year, there isn’t much in-clinic training, but we have not yet been given any details on how we will make that up in the future. Stay isolated and safe.”
Doug Buchan:
“Things haven’t been too different day-to-day for me. I have been able to log in to my job [in sports analytics] remotely. The first couple of days included setting up a home office and getting used to working from home with all the distractions. My dog is the happiest person about that.
“I have been staying busy after work by experimenting with different recipes and new types of foods for dinners. I’m also trying to make do with the gym equipment I have at my house. Using my little bit of creativity, I have for both of those. Getting into different types of TV shows without sports on.”
Corey Small:
“These are obviously some pretty unprecedented times!
“As with everyone, there have some dramatic changes to my lifestyle. The boys are keeping in touch via text, FaceTime, GroupMe, and Snapchat, so that has been enjoyable.
“With gyms closed and our games being postponed, you have to find some fun and creative ways to keep in shape while trying to social distance. Vno [goaltender Matt Vinc] has been a great source for at-home workouts. We are keeping each other accountable by sending workout pictures and videos back and forth.
“After a few of Matt’s workouts, I think we all understand why he is in the best shape on the team. I know everyone is eager to get back on the floor! If anything has come from this time away it’s a grown appreciation for the sport we play and the day-to-day things that come with being a Buffalo Bandit!
“I’m still working my 9-to-5 [job], but just from home, which is actually kind of nice. My wife and I have been diving into a few different Netflix series. Right now, we’re finishing up ‘Better Call Saul.’ We’re also trying to find a bunch of small home projects to do. Last night, we painted the laundry room – riveting stuff!
“I have a 1,000-piece puzzle on deck for our next family activity – that one I’m actually excited for!”
Nick Weiss:
“Not too much has changed with me. I’m still working full time and now on the weekends, I have more time to do renovations at my house. I hope everyone is doing OK. Stay safe.”