Last year the Stone City Thunders went two for five in the quarterfinals against the Richmond Roar, during which series the Roar temporarily stole Carol Tolliver (#41) via a contract loophole. So when the Thunders beat them in early season play, it’s a pretty good excuse for a party.

Stephanie Long actually attended the home bouts this time. Standing in the box with her graph-paper score pad reminded her of watching games with her mother, and therefore finds herself gliding into a corner on vodka skates.

“Hi,” says the person there, above the music.

“Hi, Lucie Corner,” says Stephanie Long.