On Mon, 27 Mar 1995, TERRENCE GILDRED 4XW 271-6782 (NICK) wrote:
 
> Dean, It's very common for a Hockey team to raise sticks in a salute to the
> fans at the end of a game... no matter what the out come.  My kids High School
> team does this salute after every game... even blow-out losses. The intent is
> to thank their fans for the support.  I think it's a nice touch, they tell me
> it's very hard to left the sticks when they lose, but if they don't they don't
> play next game.  I'm not a Gopher fan or follower, but I assume this is the
> tradition I've seen at all levels... except pro.
>
> Nick
>
 
That's how it's been done here at UAF for the past several seasons.  I agree
that it must be difficult for the players to salute after a tough loss
when the overwhelming urge is to head to the locker room.  However, as a
devoted fan of the *game* it's nice to see the players respect the game,
the fans and themselves.  Midwestern flame wars aside, I think respect is
the key for all involved.  Perhaps the pros could learn a thing or two
from watching the kids play...
 
Enjoy the finals, even if your team (like mine) is watching the games on
ESPN with the rest of us...
 
Mark
 
 
-----                                                                   -----
Mark J. Sonnier                       Golden Valley Electric Association, Inc
[log in to unmask]                             University of Alaska Fairbanks
         *** UAF Nanook Hockey - 95-96 Full Members in the CCHA! ***