> Is it just my impression from afar, or have there been more melees this year
> than usual?
 
I have had the same impression, and it's unfortunate.
 
> Most ADs and presidents aren't "hockey people," so they can't really be
> saying, "Well, that's just hockey," like we hockey people say.
> I'm not trying to single out any programs or coaches.
> But is it "just hockey"?
 
The way I see the problem is, the NON-Hockey people that you mention, AD's,
etc..., ARE saying "It's just hockey" -- and it is being brushed off and
discarded as inconsequential.  At least in some instances.
 
Don't you hate when ESPN, for example, only shows the fights.  They showed that
brawl in the Western Hockey League -- did they ever follow up to say that guy
was suspended for 20 games?  He was.
 
The thing is -- that isn't "just hockey" -- that's not what hockey is about.
And that's why I think brawls and the like MUST be stopped - so it no longer
perpetuates that ridiculous stereotype.  There are many more brawls in
basketball, but they are dealt with immediately.
 
When brawls occur, they, by definition, have 3rd and 4th and 5th men in.  Those
guys should be suspended for more than 1 game.
 
Adam Wodon - AC Productions
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