Respect... As I was driving home from the Hartford game, listening to sports radio, I hear of a situation where Terrel Owens admits to spitting in another player's face! How could anyone possibly do this? It got me to thinking about thr treatment of teammates, coaches, opponents, media and just people in general. Would you spit in someones face if they were talking smack to you on the street? I mean, what could possess a person do even think of doing this?... But, it is not just a senseless act like this one that I'm reffering. In as team enviornment, the people you are with are like family, and if you can't get along and respect them, there is no chemistry and the sense of team does not work. Honestly speaking, there have been guys that I would not consider buddies on teams I have been part of but when the jersey goes on and the game starts, I considered him my brother. By no means would I ever disrespect someone in the organization in anyway. But then, I would not do this to anyone at all...
So, I will never understand why or how teammates or players could stoop so low as to commit an act against someone like happened last weekend...
It happens, though not as severe, in our game and I'm sure in other sports, with rookies. They come in as the low men on the totem pole, only trying to fit in, and the other players have a habit of taking advantage of them instead of embracing them. I know in the past there was a right of passage when you first came in the league, but why make a kid feel inferior when he may be an important part of the teasmss success? If it is done in fun, that is one thing. But have a little respect...
In the standings it would appear to be a good weekend, and who can argue with 5 out of 6 points. The way we are playing could be considered playing with fire. And this type of hockey is dangerous to say the least. Not taking anything away from our guys, and I will be the first to congratulate them on the weekend, we all know we can play better, and we will. As a coach, I must remind myself that it is a ll a learning process and every game, good or bad, we all learn something...
Christmas is coming and over 20 years of pro hockey, I cannot remember having a break like the one we have this year. A few times, I was away from home for Christmas. Finland and Canada, for the World Junior Tournament, two that I will always remember with fond memories. The thrill of playing in another country and against the best in the world was one of the best presents ever!
Have a happy holiday, everyone! Weino

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