For five years, Kit Watson was the anchor the Squirrels’ defense. After playing against Marylanders for so long (and after drinking all of the beer in the state), Watson is now headed back to his hometown of Detroit for some real competition.

Watson was recruited from the New Carrolton pickup rink in 2003, and his smart play consistently pushed the Squirrels to the top of the standings. During his tenure, the Squirrels went 69-30-10, won two roller championships and appeared in three semi-finals. With the departure of longtime captain Ed Bager, the Squirrels elected Watson as captain in 2007.

Watson scored 43 goals and had 62 assists for the Squirrels, but he will be most remembered for his defense. This past weekend, the team had a rowdy going-away party for Watson at his favorite dive, Buffalo Wings and Beer. With Watson’s departure, the Squirrels are due for a major shakeup on the 2008 roller roster.

Meanwhile, the Squirrels hit the ice on Sunday, Sept. 30, for their opening game against the Piranhas.

The Screaming Squirrels picked up free-agent Chris Wautel from rival the 5 Holes, after the 5 Holes decided to trim down their roster.

Wautel, who the Squirrels have played against for years while he was on Mors ab Alto and the 5 Holes, is bound to greatly improve the Squirrels’ scoring numbers in 2007. He had 35 goals and 16 assists for 51 points in 2006, figuring into nearly half of the 5 Holes’ scoring.

The Screaming Squirrels unanimously approved adding Wautel to the roster while trading stories of roughing him up and shutting him down (though he scored a goal or two to haunt the Squirrels.)

He will be #96.

In other news, goaltender Bob Sewell squashed retirement rumors and is currently training for the upcoming season.