Every opening night, I make sure to be in my seat early enough to see the pre-game video for the first time. Saturday was one of those nights, premiering a video that is sure to give Blues fans chills. It brings together past and present, with a glimmer of hope for the future.
And after seeing a powerful special teams unit, offensive explosion from Vladimir Tarasenko and a solid (yet simple) effort between the pipes, that glimmer of hope could become more.
I’ve been reasonably quiet concerning the impending NHL lockout, but I can’t hold my silence anymore.
I call bullshit.
Bullshit to Gary Bettman and Donald Fehr for not spending June 12 – Sept. 16 working on a new contract. Bullshit on players and owners for not believing that $3.2 billion dollars split wasn’t enough for either side. Bullshit on Gary Bettman, who makes more then Marian Hossa, Henrik Zetterberg, Rick Nash and Sidney Crosby. Actually, only 15 players out of the nearly 1000 under the NHLPA make more than Bettman, at $7.98 million in 2011-2012. Bullshit to the thousands of fans who spend their hard working money on season tickets, suites and nosebleed seats to bring their dad, son, daughter or friend with the hopes of seeing something amazing. Bullshit to the bars, restaurants, parking garages and scalpers trying to get by. Bullshit to the ticket reps, mascots and concessions workers with resumes on Craigslist. Bullshit to every former player, executive, owner and coach who has their name forever engraved on Lord Stanley.
And mostly bullshit to me, for still believing in a league that has done so little to keep me in mind.
I’ll be honest, I’ve tried to avoid lockout talks. So when my boyfriend told me the Blues are one of the teams with the most players heading across the Atlantic, I was somewhat shocked.
Thanks to Puck Daddy, I’ve found this killer list of players who have taken their talents elsewhere. The Blues are below.
Fall is my favorite time of year. From the leaves falling to the Halloween stores popping up – I adore it all*. Aside from that big shindig every four years that causes advertisements to turn to hell and Facebook updates that make me want to deactivate. However, while I stray away from politics, I think I finally get it.
Whether your a democrat or republican, you’re probably quite passionate about your decision. You may choose to argue with members of the opposite party, almost to the point of distress. You’re willing to shove your point of view on anyone who will listen (or read, or like). I get it.
That’s how I feel about sports.
My blood boils when my team is insulted. If a good season is upon us, I’ll shout it from the rooftops. I cringe when I witness others in opposing team merchandise. The mere mention of Gary Bettman will ruin my day. Instead of leaning left or right, I lean forward, in my seat, in anticipation of the next play.
I may not support a political party, but I will support my St. Louis Blues until I’m 6 feet under, regardless of our lack of a Stanley Cup. I will tweet using the hashtag #12in12. I will never, ever pass up the opportunity to laugh at a cubs fan. The same passion, desire and distaste that fuels political debates fuels my fanhood.
