Letter from the Editor

On Sunday the Wisconsin Badgers completed the NCAA season by winning the 2011 National Championship thus closing out another season of college hockey. As we all take time to reflect on what has surly been exciting for some, disappointing for others, pain, pleasure, and fun; lets pause for a moment and thank all of the players throughout the nation for giving their all 100% of the time and making personal sacrifices to chase their dreams. As the Seniors say goodbye and the underclassmen assume new roles as potential leaders lets take one more moment to thank all the senior's nationwide for their achievements both on and off the ice.

With a new class of high school seniors ready to join the frey next fall, there are many intangibles to think about. For each team, the ultimate goal is to put together the right group to make a team. Not replacing their current team, but a new team as each season starts fresh and should not be looked upon as replacing the last but finding their own identity. For each player it's finding the right fit for their needs. Some players find success in a small college environment and others at a major university. Some players pick a larger school with a major in their planned field of study and others have no idea what their future holds and are looking to compliment their hockey with school in hopes of finding their way. Finally there will ultimately be some transfers. Transferring from one school to another should not be seen as a bad thing. As with any decision in life, sometimes the first choice is not always the right choice. When a player decides to transfer it should not be seen as a bad thing, but a fresh start, even if it's done with a year of eligibility left.

The game of hockey will have a lasting impression for the players and coaches, the families and fans. Ultimately, we are all being provided entertainment from the hard work and dedication of individuals playing for their own enjoyment. That fact is often lost by losing seasons, bad coaching, or disappointing finishes. Remember that every season is full of many factors. For this season the light at the end of the tunnel has arrived, however the next train is already on the tracks and the tunnel that is the 2011-2012 season is already in its sights.