Coach's Corner #22

with Springfield Falcon's Asst. Coach Phil Russell

The Falcons have a "BIG" rest of the season because they face off against all teams within their division Providence, Hartford, Lowell, Albany, Manchester, and Bridgeport. We all know it has been a frustrating couple of weeks for our Birds of Prey, but we are staying positive and ready for a run for the playoffs. Everyone loves the underdog and our players will be relishing that role.

Something to reflect upon: This week the world lost two important characters Minnesota Twins' star Kirby Puckett and actress Dana Reeve, widow of the "Superman", Christopher Reeve. Puckett, the baseball kid in a man's body, always played the game with his heart and soul. His enthusiasm endured him to the state of Minnesota and a nation in the sport of baseball. Unfortunately, glaucoma ended his career too short and eventually a stroke would take his character to a higher place. Dana Reeve became a champion for the paralysis and cancer cause. It seemed that no matter what cards she was dealt she handled it with grace and unparallel desire to live for her son and her causes. Comic Robin Williams said of Reeve, "She was our brightest light."

What does this have to do with Coach's Corner? I guess you could say that no matter what your wins and losses might be, there are always moments in this world bigger than you and we need to appreciate each day on this earth. It is all about what you do in the world to make it a better place. Your positive legacy is the gift to your family, friends and history. Puckett and Reeve certainly did that.

I personally have several things to be thankful for. One in Springfield that I am thankful for is the Springfield Slider Sled Hockey team. I have written about them before but to tell you how far they have come deserves a second mention. I cannot begin to tell you how wonderful it is to put a smile on a player's face when they have grasped a concept in the game I love. The Slider team is practicing hard at Amelia Park in Westfield for their upcoming tournament on April 21st. If you ever need to appreciate what you have again, come down and meet our team. They are some of hardest working people I know and boy, do they have a good time. They have certainly made sour grapes into sweet grape juice.

It is a tough time of year for our Falcons. There is always the chance you will be traded after you are all settled in a city. You need to find a way to impress management for next season's contract with not many games left to do so. Players coming in and out. The Falcons are ready to battle and they look forward to your support at the MassMutual Center. The run for the playoffs starts now!