The only annoying thing about having to register SO early for defending the Castle is the accentuation of the already excrutiating sensation of anticipation. This year it will be even "worse" than usual with the addition of the chance to meet so very many fine E-friends and share the ramparts with you all.
For those who have asked about adding players to our little team either now or closer to the game; here's the scoop.
For the immediate future, there are a limited number of openings for defenders. Last I heard there were fifty spots, minus the eleven that we just registered, so I would expect these remaining spots to go fairly quickly.
Whenever the pre-registered attackers exceed 500 or so, EMR will open up the defenders ranks proprtionate to the attendance. Usually scads of people show up on game day without registering and swell the ranks of the attackers but EMR sometimes does not get the ratios adjusted before the first game.
The second game of the day is usually much closer to a 4-to-1 attacker advantage, but the first game is often between 5-7 to 1 odds.
What does all this mean?
You have two choices;
1. Register your buddies who are "maybes" now and risk $25 per man. Be sure to tell EMR if your maybes don't show as that will allow them to find a substitute to fill the defender's spot on game day. (No refunds - but a good "cause" to lose money to)
2. Wait until game day and see what shakes out. Usually there is no problem getting in to defend by the second game. With this option, you pay more ($35) of course.
Finally, a few notes to everyone who is registered;
1. You are signed up for Saturday only. If you desire to stick around and play Sunday, I believe that it may cost an extra $10 or $15 payable now or on game day for Sunday. Bring your pumps as there is a heavy emphasis on pump play Sunday.
2. There is an awesome players' party on Saturday night. If you can stay overnight, you won't regret it. Alot of us will be staying down the road at the Parkview Hotel/bar(@$35 per night), but in a pinch (or on a really tight budget) there is usually someplace to crash up at the field.
3. Our team is registered under the name "Carter's Commando" and your name is registered as it appears above except without the nickname. You should check in upon arrival and they will mark your name off the list and give you sign in materials. We will figure out a way to meet up closer to the game.
4. For those who are dedicated to paintball history and have old school (or even representative "new" school) gear, literature or really anything paintball related that is lying around unused. Bring it up to EMR for possible inclusion in the International Paintball Museum. The museum is a jewel and is, alone, worth the trip to EMR. To participate in this museum is like contributing to the Smithsonian Institute for paintball. Give till it hurts...
I think that's enough for now, nearly 70 days in advance of our adventure...