I just read a post from a BU student who was disappointed that Jay
Pandolfo elected to skip his last 4 weeks at BU in order to pursue his pro
career with Albany in the AHL.  In my opinion, his decision is the smart
one.  If Pandolfo breaks his leg tomorrow (or in 5 years for that matter)
and his career is ended, he can still go back to complete his degree.  Ask
Gord Kluzak about going back to college after his playing career (he went to
Harvard after his knee injury shortened his NHL career).
 
        You don't have to get your degree by the time you're 23 in order to
survive in life.  That's like telling a person not to even think of getting
a job until they get their degree.  When I was in college, I had plenty of
non-traditional students in my classes.  I didn't hear anyone telling these
folks what a mistake they made by choosing to forego college earlier in
their lives.
 
        The bottom line:  play in the pros as soon as you can, but be aware
that you should complete college someday.
 
        Darrin Lucas
        Varsity Head Coach
        Immaculate HS Hockey
        Danbury  CT
 
HOCKEY-L is for discussion of college ice hockey;  send information to
[log in to unmask], The College Hockey Information List.