That thing we do at the start of every season

...which would be lose our Opening Night game, in this case by a score of 5-2 to Sofa King Good. Honestly, I knew this might be our toughest game all year anyway - they are a veteran, very good team from Hollywood, and they came ready to play. And despite any worries that might have been had, their deportment and sportsmanship throughout the game were first-rate. If I were wearing a hat, I would doff it to them.

However, the night was more success than failure. Michael and Ashley set up the Official Awesome Helicopter Ninjas Fan Club (tentatively called "The Army of Awesomeness" in between fields before the game, and put up 50 fliers promoting my autograph session. And there I was, ready to sign glossy headshots and team photos before the game for our adoring fans. And, as suspected, none showed up.

Therefore, comedy ensued. Lots of me (as the disgruntled, egotistical superstar) getting upset and blaming Michael (as the hapless promoter/manager) making excuses and apologizing. And the obligatory recreation of the "Artie Fufkin from Polymor Records" scene from "This is Spinal Tap".

But, by the end of the night, I think we had signed up at least 75 percent of our own team for the Fan Club, which may not sound like much, but you need to start with your local fan base. After all, Cheap Trick was big in Chicago before they became famous worldwide. (Also, they were famous in the Japan before they were famous anywhere else in the US...and we're the Ninjas. Coincidence?)

Good times were had by all. Exceot for that whole losing thing, which was kind of a downer.