I thought of this post because it seems an interesting topic. As for me, I don't consider myself a rookie anymore. After countless battles and several confirmed kills (including 2 of my closest friends, hehe) I think I've earned the right to consider myself no longer a rookie. The first time I got hit was at close range (about 7 ft.)and it hurt, but then again, pain is what makes any sport worth playing, my opinion that is. How about you, do you still remember the first time you were a rookie and that moment when you realized you no longer are one?