Coach's Corner #20

with Springfield Falcon's Asst. Coach Phil Russell

Boston University wins the Beanpot, and the winner of Olympic gold is still up for grabs. There will be some lucky guy or guys who will win gold and then drink from Lord Stanley. Way cool to have your country doing backflips and then going the distance in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Sort of like a hockey smorgasbord. I have narrowed it down to Czech's, USA, Sweden, Finland, Russia & Canada. I know that I am covering most angles here and not really going out on a limb but read on, you never know, I might just narrow that down a bit.

We spent a weekend in Norfolk, VA due to the Blizzard '06. We played hard but did not fare too well with the wins. However, the team had the opportunity to bond, and as we have the home stretch approaching, it should show dividends. Our game v. Philly will be played on March 1st and another tough one for the road.

The Pesky Birds of Prey have fallen on some lean times, but the answer still remains the same. Good solid practice habits that carry over into game situations. We welcome Bridgeport and Wilkes-Barre into the Mass Mutual Center as well as traveling to Lowell to take on the Lock Monsters. I quote the Greatest-Muhammed Ali "Champions aren't made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them: A desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have last minute stamina, they have to be a little faster, they have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill."

I am very interested to watch as countries come together and perform to the best of their abilities in Italy. Yes, to the winner go the spoils, but what about the experience itself.

For he who tries and fails and dies, I give great pity and honor and tears. The experience is the key, even if it is an unpleasant one. Most times it prepares you for what lies ahead. So rally forth and go for the gold, I for one will be here to applaud you.

The players will be making their mark on Springfield this week, with community outreach every day. Join us out there. Get a quick look at their activities:

Tues, Feb. 21, Open Practice at Cyr Arena, Springfield 10AM-Noon

Join us for a team autograph session following practice!

Wed, Feb. 22, Falcons Autograph at Tower Square, Springfield 1-2PM

Tower Square, Spfld signing: Meet #37 Gerald Coleman, #48 Mike Egener, #51 Gerard Dicaire & #62 Andre Deveaux

Thurs, Feb. 23, Falcons v. Lowell Lock Monsters at MassMutual Center, 7:05PM - KIDS UNDER AGE 18 FREE courtesy of BIG Y WORLD CLASS MARKETS: FREE YOUTH TICKET with the purchase of an adult ticket (LIMIT of 4 FREE tickets per adult purchase)

Sat, FEB 25, Falcons v. Norfolk Admirals 7:05 PM -Falcons Ride for Brightside. Fans receive a poster featuring #29 Mitch Fritz courtesy of Tibby's Harley Davidson & Salty Dog Saloon. Fundraising Post-Game Party at the Salty Dog Saloon, Bridge St., Springfield. Special $1.00 cover benefits Brightside for Families and Children. Post Game Skate: Bring your skates for a Vacation Post-Game Skate!