So how are those New Year's resolutions coming along?

I'm sure that for anybody trying to get back into shape, meeting those declarations has not been easy with the weather as cold as it has been. I know for one that I've been slacking since this chill has hit the Keys.

By the time the second half rolled around and the sun had set at Monday's Coral Shores-Marathon boys soccer match, I was too cold even to take any more pictures, or simply move at all, since I was sure, if I put any excess pressure on my feet, my toes were sure to snap off.

OK, so maybe it's only cold if you are standing still, because those who competed in the First annual Marques Butler Softball Tournament were able to brave rain and cold, although they were all bundled up head to toe.

So, don't give up on those resolutions just yet. It's far too early in the year to relinquish those goals. Just put some extra layers on and get out there. It won't be too long before it will be hot again and we'll be wishing for a bit of cool weather.

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Although, it cannot be officially declared yet, it looks as if there will be a pair of Keys soccer players who will get a chance to compete against each other again next season at the college level. After being on different sides of the ball growing up, Coral Shores' Mike Hampson and Marathon's Matt DeFillips have each made the decision to join different squads that are part of the NCAA Division II's Gulf South Conference.

Hampson has made plans to join the University of West Florida in Pensacola -- my old stomping grounds -- while DeFillips will be heading to Cleveland, Miss., to play at Delta State.

Both players said they chose the schools because of small town atmosphere and good coaches. The senior captains also said they were genuinely excited to keep their friendly rivalry alive.

Staff Writer J.W. Cooke's Home Field Advantage column appears exclusively each Wednesday in The Citizen. He can be reached at 305-292-7777, Ext. 261, or at jwcooke@keysnews.com.