Well, fans, the fight for a spot in the playoffs is finally over. Not to downplay the tremendous support from our fans both at home and on the road. With some callups and injuries, we could not sustain a late season charge that began with a 5 game win streak. Disappointing? Yes. Missing the playoffs is always a downer. And now the team is in a position where the games mean nothing in the standings. So what do players play for in this situation. Pride. A spot on next years team. A chance to leave a good impression for next season. For any player who has never been in a game like this, it is a tough game to play in. But this is where your professionalism takes over. You are still payed to perform and you are still playing the game you love. Play it hard and try and win. Winning always feels good, no matter the circumstances. And hey, we have some new guys with something to prove. So you know we will be going hard, letting the pride shine through...
Enjoy watching the former Pirates in the playoffs. They may go a long way...
I'll be watching the playoffs. It is hard not to, it's the best part of the season. It brings back many memories about opening game jitters when the first series starts. Then you settle in , and boy does it get exciting. And, when you win the first series, you are that much closer to the Cup. Then on to the next series. It just doesn't get any better than that. There really is no way to explain the feeling you get when you play for the Cup, in any league...
Everyone in Maine was feeling the pain of the UMaine hockey team during the game Thursday. While watching the the game at Rivalries, the room was full, and it was great to see the state get behind their team. It was heart breaking to hear the devastating news of Coach Whitehead's mother -in -law's tragic accident prior to the game. Our hearts go out to the families of the deceased. And congrats to the boys and Tim on another trip to the Final Four. One other note pertaining to the UMaine program. Grant Stanbrook has retired from coaching, after many years of on ice instruction and tireless recruiting. He has touched the careers of many NHLers over the years. Way to go, Grant!
My pick in the east of the AHL? Sorry that I have to say it, but its Hershey...
A few things to think about. I don't condone what Don Imus said. But, why is it OK for rappers to say these things and get no scrutiny, but when a guy like Imus does he is ripped? There is talk about eliminating highschool sports programs and only having sports clubs. I think this is a mistake. The term student athlete is something I believe in. The bonds and lessons created in sports along with the spirit at schools is one of the great experiences of growing up... Last, in Cleveland they are banning "chatter" in Little League. But, it is still OK for the coaches to yell at the kids and the parents to scream at the coaches. Hmmm...
As I said, these last games will be tough, but for a guy who thought he was done, another day of playing is more than I could ask for. I will enjoy every moment till the final buzzer... Weino

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