Response to: 3-9-97 issue
Sounding Off/BDN
Deirdre Fleming/Complaints aren't only opinions
 
                    UMAINE Hockey Players Earned Touting Rights
BDN sports writers can't complain about the hockey program any more but under
the guise of "upbeat positive news" reporting, Fleming
takes another 'bad shot' at UMAINE hockey. In an otherwise list of positives,
Fleming preempts her list with a dig at the last hockey practice and
shortened season.
Then she says, "here's a list of stories that weren't highly touted"
Since hockey isn't on that list the presumption is they aren't going to be
mentioned because they already got their due. This is subtle.
The rest of the news media has endless praise for the 96-97 Black Bears.
USA Today said, "some of the best hockey in HE is being played at the Alfond,
boasting the leagues best record since Christmas, impressing national
pollsters with wins against nationally ranked teams". Coach Walsh commended
his Black Bears, applauding the effort of his team and saying repeatedly,
"these players brought  the MAINE jersey back." USCHO
The Hockey News, said, "The Bears Roared, they made a strong statement they
will be a formidable team next season with a sweep of powerful Boston
University."
The Boston Globe, "Maine has earned some respect in Beantown."
 
After the BDN verbal thrashing of UMAINE hockey this fall, the Black Bears
with their awesome performance the second half earned touting rights from
local sports writers.
 
The point being, why bring up a negative in an otherwise list of all
positives.
Just another un-subtle journalistic device to denegrate the hockey program.
 
Complaints are the only opinions( except when it comes to Walsh's Black
Bears!)
 
the Price is right (-: