Last Sunday, we attended a great win by the Rockford IceHogs. By beating the San Antonio Rampage 2-1, they moved within one point of the first place Milwaukee Admirals. In my previous entries, I discussed the fine effort. Today, I want to concentrate on a very emotional subject.
Prior to the game, the news spread of the unfortunate, untimely passing of former player Steve Montador. The 35 year old had played with the IceHogs during the 2012-2013 season and therefore was a teammate of many of the current IceHogs.
I can't imagine playing a hockey game with such heavy hearts. The IceHogs not only played, but they played one of their best games of the season. It was a beauty to behold.
After the game, in the media sessions, we saw just how much the players were affected. Many were seen with red, puffy, tear-filled eyes. Several were visibly and openly crying for their fallen former teammate.
Joakim Nordstrom broke down during the interview. The media present had the choice of recording Nordstrom or ending the session. I am glad everything kept going. I don't enjoy seeing any person mourn a friend, but the outpouring of Nordstrom's emotion was moving. It is important to remember hat these are young men. They are regular people. They have the same problems as we do and sometimes they have to deal with them on a much larger stage than we do.
We want them to win at all costs. I have gone to work after hearing of a former co-worker dying. It isn't easy. I tip my hat to the entire IceHogs' organization for playing so well under the conditions and for displaying their emotions when they could. This was horribly tragic, but it also showed the class organization that Rockford is.
There are several games left and as I stated already, I plan on attending as many as I can. I want to be a part of the playoff run. I want to support this fine organization and I hope you do, too.
After you watch the very emotional video, please take a moment to be thankful for the good times and good friends you have. Also, head over to IceHogs.com for more info and the schedule for the rest of the season.
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