The LAN Hackers entered the 2003B season with more returning players than any other team. But it was two players missing from their roster that caused the most raised eyebrows.
For the first time in the five year history of the ADC FHL, the Hackers squad does not contain John Dulong or John Price. Despite those massive gaps, the Hackers have thus far compiled a 5-0-1 record, good enough to put them in the familiar position of first place.
Rookie Jeff Shute has replaced Price up front for the Hackers, along with the only other Hacker newcomer Mike Montgomery. Montgomery returned to the ADC after a five-season absence.
Perhaps the biggest beneficiary of the two high profile retirements is the Hackers defensive core. Finally, they are getting the recognition that they deserve. Darren Derocher, playing in his fifth season for the Hackers, is welcoming the new-found attention. “I used to be able to walk around the office without getting noticed”, explained a giddy Derocher, “now the odd person says ‘Hi’ to me!”.
If the Hackers were able to consolidate their first place position into another championship, it would be their second straight title and seventh overall.