Letter to Winter Hawk Coaches and Players · 22 February, 16:54

Well boys this is some situation.

You are on the verge of making WHL history as one of the league’s worst teams. I superstitiously wouldn’t even mention it but I see the 16 game losing streak turning into a 27 game losing streak. Why… look at your performance. In the previous 16 games you have only once had a goal differential of less than three. Teams get up on you early, you usually play better in the second period, but if your opponent happens to score in that period, the rout begins in the third period.

Not very flattering. Hockey reality is harsh and nobody is going to send you a get well soon card. The Hawk fans are rooting for you, but Seattle, Everett, Spokane and Tri City’s would just as soon see you stay down as long as possible. I hope Hawk management and coaching are fully supporting you.

I don’t know if most of you are just plain over your heads, too young or are just lacking in confidence.

Individually you have some talent, but collectively you are not competing.

Coming from last years last place showing I wanted to see 100% on-the-ice effort and some signs of improvement. That is a goal that could have carried this team into some positive territory.

I realize injuries have not allowed the team to perform, but it doesn’t matter…nobody is going to put that foot note in the record books.

Most of you are new to the team, but you are wearing colors that were worn by a host of ex-Hawks that played on the highest level of hockey and represent a franchise that has been one of the most successful organizations in the league.

Hall of Fame players like Cam Neely, and NHL Al-stars like Marian Hossa and Brenden Morrow are just a few. Watching players like ex-Hawk Cody Mcleod who now plays for Colorado Avalanche, I wonder, how did he make it to the NHL? Simple, non-stop hitting and 100% effort every night. The guy would never give up. He would hit everyone and if necessary fight everyone. It wouldn’t matter if you were down by 10 goals, you were going to pay for the next one. He didn’t just learn how to do that with Colorado, but played that way for every game I saw him as a Hawk.

These are players that many Hawk fans remember and they are tough shoes to fill.

Most of you are young and trying to find your self. As you walk out on the ice next time look up in the banners and realize you are not just playing for yourself anymore, but are part of a hockey story that has gone on since 1914 in Portland.

Make it a memorable one.

— S. Blanchard

Comment

  1. yes, please, hit someone!!!

    — bonghit1 · Feb 23, 04:17 · #

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US Divisional News · 18 January, 16:48

— S. Blanchard

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