RailHawks goalkeeper Caleb Patterson will be blogging weekly throughout the 2011 season here on CarolinaRailHawks.com. This is the first installment of “From the Goalkeeper.”

Gday Railhawk fans,

I’m coming to you with the first of many amazing blogs. Well at least I think they will be. First of all, I just want to say its great to be back here in Raleigh playing for the RailHawks. It’s good to see lots of familiar faces and be able to get cracking with the new season. 

That brings me to my next subject. The game this past weekend. Good thing it was warm weather right? NOT… It has to be one of the coldest games of football I’ve ever been involved with. It was insane. The game itself was a heartbreaker to lose, I thought we showed great spirit in the second half and dominated even with 10 men. It is a lesson learned though for us. We need to be switched on right to the final whistle, and be assured that the gaffer won’t let that happen again. As you are aware, the game was paused for a while… a long while, due to the bad weather, so I’ve left you with a few pictures of what it was like on the inside of the locker room.

Speaking of the locker room, I happen to sit next to some of the grandfathers on the team in Allan Russell and Stephen Glass. We have to wear dress clothes to the game. I personally just stick to the standard suit and tie – looking fantastic I might add. I was in the locker room and I turned around and I happened to look around and see something that is more for the front cover of GQ, there was big Al in a pinstriped suit. I have to say I was impressed with Mr. Russell, I thought for sure he would just keep it to the kilt. Then there is Glassy: I have to say he looked spectacular, with his Mr. Bean costume. It was really special.

My last subject is just a quick one. I’m looking for a tissue sponsor for my roomie Greg Richardson. I’ve put him to sleep far to often this week in FIFA and I had to see my roommate in tears so often. So if you got any connection help the big man out, please so.

Last but not least, I shot a little footage of Etienne Babara, but it got lost in the editing bay. I still hope salvage it, and if so, I'll bring it to you. The big “greek waiter” is back 'n' at 'em here in Raleigh. He is off to a flying start with a goal in the first match. Hope you enjoy.

Until next week, have a good one!

CP