This is not meant to be a "what I did on my spring vacation" report, but
after a few days to digest everything, my Boston visit deserves some
comment. I have been to every final four since 1991, and this one was
more than worth the trip.
(1) The final game was one of the best finals I have ever witnessed. BC
leads 1-0, UM ties it 1-1, BC leads 2-1, UM ties it 2-2, and then my
favorite time -- overtime. BC's youth and speed and Marty Reasoner
against Michigan's experience, defense, and Marty Turco.
(2) Marty Turco was amazing. He is my son's new hero after the
spectacular saves against UNH and then stellar performance, especially
in overtime, against BC.
(3) Both semifinals were boring at best, with the winner outshooting the
loser by 2-1 margins at game end, but 3-1 or more margins through the
first two periods.
(4) The Hockey-L dinner and Section-16 get-togethers. It was simply
great to have names, faces, and bodies all combined together. Those from
Boston were very generous and wishing for all to have a great time in
their city. Thanks to Ed Moller for his hospitality and friendliness.
Erik Biever in his Gopher-ears hat and Paula in her Klingon (sp?)
jersey, J. Michael Neal in his Michigan jersey, Charlie Shub in his
JohnsTOWN Chiefs jersey, Wayne Smith with his family taking pictures of
everyone, Carol White with name tags, and Karen Ambrose putting together
a fabulous dinner made this final four a visual and personal treat I
will never forget.
(5) I actually rooted for Michigan for once in my life. For a Michigan
State graduate, that is odd; and I intended to root for BC when I got to
the arena, but given my son's interest in Turco (including a Go
Michigan! sign) and the stadium's overwhelming support for the home
team, I ended up cheering for overtime....and got what I wanted.
(6) I loved my seats at the FleetCenter (second row deep in the corner
with great views of most everything) and cannot wait for the next Final
Four to be hosted by Boston. It is by far the best eastern site I have
ever been to and I just hope it is not 24 years before the next NCAA ice
hockey final takes place in America's most walkable city.
 
Nathan Eric Hampton
 
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