Bum knee doesn't bum out 'Cane

It would be hard to imagine a player on Palm Harbor University's team being anything but ecstatic after the Hurricanes captured the state title last season.

By BRANDON WRIGHT
Published February 17, 2007

FORT LAUDERDALE - It would be hard to imagine a player on Palm Harbor University's team being anything but ecstatic after the Hurricanes captured the state title last season.

But for David Cole, that was the case.

"Bittersweet," Cole said. "I was happy we won but it killed me not being out on the field."

Cole missed both matches during last year's final four after injuring his right knee against East Lake in the region final. But the senior midfielder's career has come full circle as he gets the chance to play in the state finals today at noon against the team he watched the Hurricanes beat last year - Auburndale.

"Being back here again, playing the same team," Cole said. "It's unreal."

That Cole, whose knee is bone on bone at this point, has made it through the season has been remarkable. Planting with the injured knee is tolerable, but he's in great deal of pain striking with his right foot. So essentially, Cole has been playing on one leg.

"I might make a short pass with my right foot if I have to," he said. "But only when it's absolutely necessary."

Cole was scheduled to have the meniscus surgically replaced with one from a cadaver - normally done for the elderly - on Monday and he's heard all the jokes.

But Cole, who makes light of it himself, said it will have to wait until later in the week.

"Because FedEx doesn't deliver on the weekend," he joked.

The only thing that could make Cole's journey any sweeter would be leaving Fort Lauderdale today with a gold medal around his neck.

"This whole thing has been like a fairy tale," he said.

"It feels like I'm living a dream."

[Last modified February 16, 2007, 22:49:36]