I have read about 8 pages today as I had a computer password issue. During this long drive to St. Cloud /MSP for hockey some thoughts occurred to me that I would like to bring to the board. Keep in mind, I am not a great hockey mind, I have only played pick up hockey, but I love the sport and the Fighting Sioux.
Could the Ralph be detrimental? Does the outrageous fan support that they get become noticeably absent at regionals? Might be a stretch, but I wanted to throw it out there.
It has been mentioned that the program has become a stopping ground for NHLers. This makes me wonder if the Yale boys knew deep down that this could be their last hurrah? I am sure our players were focused and knew the season was on the line, but deep down did they feel it?
The game has changed. When I started watching, I heard a lot about them damn east coach refs that wanted "girls" hockey. I heard how tough we are to play against, might have even been called goons. Seem like at all levels of hockey there is a push to make it safer for the players. Could it be that the "east" caught on to this trend before the "west"? Maybe that is why our refs have been so "poor". They are calling the game as they are told, "safer" "girly" or whatever they want to label it, BUT the refs are as old school as the players. They see Mac lay out a player and know the league "powers" or NCAA want it called and go with it?
Dump & Chase, if I am wrong please correct me, is most effective when played with an edge toward violence and hitting. If your players have to watch their hits, then the edge has been dulled. Now if you take it further, are the recruits being asked to change their style from "edgy" to NCAA compliant?
Wish we were playing tomorrow, but I will back UND and the head coach until the dirt lands on my face.