One time awkward and shy Thomas Vanek is now a vocal, demonstrative leader on th eice and in the room, and he's a married, father of three boys. Ryan Miller, the conscious and moral compass of the Sabres for a decade is a veteran of marriage, and wars. Grizzled vet, and leader of men, Steve Ott just married his long time fiancee. They are happy in love. Marty Biron has four kids and a horse farm. Former Sabres ass kicker and shot blocker extraordinaire, Jay McKee, hung up his blades after a stellar NHL season. He is now enjoying his retirement.
These are just a few of a hundred examples that I can cite of players that I've gotten to know through the glorious game of hockey. Their loves continue to evolve as they grow and learn life's lessons. The aren't young kids anymore. They are men. Good men. Trustworthy and forthright men who have donned the crossed swords with pride, dignity and honor.
Wathing these guys go through the age of acquisition is something special for me.
I remember meeting each of these special guys for the first time when they were all baby-faced prospects. Now, they are bonafide respected young men.
When they reach milestones in their personal lives, I pause and reflect on their accomplishments. Time stands still.
They are hockey players, but above all else, they are unique human beings. They have lives, interests and pursuits away from the rink. They seek solace from the bright lights and the harsh rays of the bright limelight.
Buffalo Sabres are different from any other pro athlete that you will ever meet. They are open and accessible. They are giving of their time. They sign your autographs at Wegmans or at TGIFriday's when they are with their friends and families. They are charitable. They are loyal. They allow their fans access into their personal lives. They are members of your communities. The care about you just as mush as you care about them.
They were raised that way by loving, strict mothers and fathers who taught them character and humility and to never place themselves on pedestals.
They are your Buffalo Sabres.
Drew Stafford posted this heart felt message to Sabres fans on the Sabres Facebook page earlier today.
I love how Staff is holding himself accountable for the the miserable season that he endured last season. He's owning his share of the blame. Thats impressive growth and maturity and perspective. He's promising to come back better than ever. I like this piece of humble pie that Stafford is serving himself. He knows that he can be better. He'll turn it around. Will he score 30 goals and add 30 assists this season? Not likely, but I can live with more truculence, pugnacity (just press "play" below), 20 goals and 20 helpers.
How about you?
I've had my several a couple to hearts with with Staff since he arrived in Buffalo a hit shot first rounder from North Dakota by way of Shattuck-St. Mary's. He hates losing. He hates when he struggles and slumps. He loves to win, hates to lose. He'll be 28 in Octiber, and he's not a kid in the room any more. Its time that he steps his game up and starts leading the way that he knows that he can.
Stafford was clearly dejected and disappointed with himself on locker clean out day. Only he can change his game and turn his luck around.
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