[I subscribe to a couple "political" lists, and regularly
receive "action alerts" calling for people to write politicians
on various subjects.  This isn't *quite* the same, but I thought
the subject might get people's attention.  This idea came out
of some "offline" correspondence with John Haeussler, so he
can take some of the credit/blame for it.  :-) ]
 
In the 4 years that I've participated in HOCKEY-L (and
most likely from it's inception, I'm sure), there have been
MANY discussions about what people think is wrong with how
the leagues operate and things that could be done to
improve both the leagues and college hockey in general.
I think that HOCKEY-L people have come up with many good
ideas, but those ideas don't always get communicated to
the people who "make a difference".
 
The annual league meetings, where policies for upcoming
years are set, are going to be held over the next few
months.  If you would like to see changes in how your team's
league operates, NOW is the time to write a letter to the
people who make these decisions -- the athletic director(s)
and coach(es) of the team(s) you follow.  Students might
also consider the "letters to the editor" section of school
newspapers as an outlet to bring these ideas forward.
 
If you do write a letter, here's some suggestions:
 - BE POLITE!
 - Try to be concise.  A one or two page letter will probably
   get read; a 20 page dissertation will most likely get placed
   into the circular file.  (Obviously, I have some work to do
   on this point! :-)
 - Suggestions and constructive criticism are far more effective
   than complaining.  (I'd strongly recommend avoiding "ref
   bashing", for example.)
 - It certainly doesn't hurt to point out how you support or
   are involved with the team/athletic program/school.  Are
   you an alumus who contributes $$$?  Booster?  Season ticket
   holder? etc.  However, don't use this point to "threaten"
   that you'll drop support if your wishes are not implemented.
 
Personally, I agree with many of those on the list who think
that the WCHA needs to modify its schedule to allow for more
inter-leage games.  I'll be writing a letter to Michigan Tech's
athletic director on this subject.  (Now what's the URL for the
faculty e-mail directory at Tech???)
 
To quote an overused phrase, maybe it's time to "put up or shut
up."  :-)
 
- Garrett Lanzy (Michigan Tech '84, Go Huskies!)
 
--
Garrett Lanzy        Endicott, NY
 
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