hockeyfanatic

We have different opinions about Blais' recruiting tactics. That's fine. I think he's lucky he has the incredible arena to aid in his recruiting because the hockey world is waking up to his ways. Lucia knew in mid-August that Olson wasn't coming and Olson never signed. Ask Lucia if he thinks Olson left him hanging and I'd bet Lucia barely even remembers Olson. Read about what Blais' word meant to Luke Beaverton and Pat O'Leary and obviously there's a trend. Blais' winning percentage says he's a great coach, but there's different ways to measure greatness.

Mr Hoyt It's fine to disagree. But YOU need to get your facts right. Brian Canady didn't come to UND when planned because he needed to get his ACT higher. That's not a crime. Some people who are smart enough just don't take the test well. Olson never signed or enrolled at MN. After Blais wouldn't sign him as promised, Olson was really was in a tough spot. Lucia was willing to talk to him. A verbal commitment really screws the kid. The coach can choose to string you along for a very long time while other coaches are very reluctant to talk to you. The coach is totally in control and the kid is at his mercy. As for Olson making his decisions LATE, can't you figure out why he had no choice but to make his decisions late? Who wouldn't want everything signed early and decided? Again, the athete is at the mercy of the coach's ethics. Blais didn't make Olson do anything. You're right. He handcuffed the kid but things have a way of working out with hard work. The coach has to do what he thinks is right for the program- or himself. Again, you're right. But you don't think there is any obligation to be honest with the athlete?

Olson's grades and ACT scores were fine. (It was Canady who had the trouble there.) Blais sent then assistant Bowen down to Omaha in March to tell Olson he would be signed in April- ask Bowen if that's the truth. Blais himself told Olson the same thing in person in Dec. or so. Come April, Blais wouldn't sign him. If that's not being a liar I don't know what is. Blais does what is best for Blais. Blais didn't know if he wanted Olson anymore but he knew he didn't want some other team to have him so he strung him along. But, hey, it's all water under the bridge and I'll bet Olson is happy to be where he is today. Blais is no choir boy.

Olson was never really released from his commitment to UND. Blais chose not to honor that commitment after telling Olson both in Dec. and March that he would sign him in April and not to worry. Come April, Blais had no time for him. By the way, it's his younger brother who is having a good year for UND's baseball team. If you think Blais is a man of his word, think again.