Happy Trails Tom

"I thought we played hard. Anything drastic, is to go outside of what the needs are right now. We are going to continue to play hard, stay the course, keep working hard (and) go after wins." --Tom Renney, after last night's loss

Sorry Tom, staying the course just isn't good enough. After staying up so late last night, I awoke to the news that Renney was canned, and I can't say I am shocked. I don't think anyone is.

Perry Pearn was also thankfully shown the door, something that should have happened at least a year ago, if not more. He openly admitted that the power play was his responsibility and the special team is more of a disaster than Penn Station at 3am on a Saturday night. Mike Pelino and Benoit Allaire kept their jobs, which is good because they are both capable and intelligent. Pelino has the players' ears and Allaire has made Hank into a top five NHL goaltender.

But back to Renney. Say what you will, the man coached the team to three straight playoff appearances. He managed to keep the enigmatic Jaromir Jagr interested while not letting the Sean Avery circus get out of hand. He brought back some honour and respect to a franchise that had failed so often since 1994 and was largely responsible for the lockout.

Don't fool yourself, firing Renney will not solve this team's woes. Glen Sather dragged the team down with big money signings at the turn over the century and he has done it again this last summer. The money mistakes won't be fixed by putting a firebrand behind the bench but it should help.

Renney too often threw his hands up, either not knowing what was going wrong or not being able to fix it. And when a coach does that, a negative light is shown on the general manager and the Rangers general manager is a petty, petty man. Sather plays the recluse to hide his incompetence while collecting his massive paycheque and when people started to blame him of all people for the team's woes, well ... he just can't have that.

So Renney takes the fall. As I said, he was a good coach, who did some good things for the Rangers. He will get another job somewhere else and I for one certainly wish him luck. He just wasn't the right coach for Sather's crop of overpaid miscreants and now the dark master general manager has his big chance to pick that proper person to head the ship. Let's hope he picks well (but I wouldn't bet on it).

 Happy Trails Tom: A Tribute to a Rangers Legend

In the storied history of the New York Rangers, there have been players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. One such player is Tom, better known as "Happy Trails Tom" among Rangers faithful. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the career of Tom, his contributions to the team, and the impact he had on Rangers fans. Additionally, we'll address some frequently asked questions about this beloved Rangers figure.

Tom: A Rangers Icon

1. Early Days with the Rangers:

Tom's journey with the Rangers began several years ago when he first attended a game at Madison Square Garden. His passion for the team was immediate, and he quickly became a fixture at Rangers games.

2. The Birth of "Happy Trails Tom":

It didn't take long for Tom to gain recognition among Rangers fans. His enthusiastic cheers of "Happy Trails" during games, particularly after Rangers victories, endeared him to fans and players alike.

3. Becoming a Superfan:

Tom's dedication to the Rangers extended far beyond just attending games. He became a superfan, collecting memorabilia, following the team's every move, and even traveling to away games to support the Rangers.

Tom's Impact on the Rangers Community

1. Boosting Team Morale:

Tom's infectious enthusiasm and unwavering support served as a morale boost for the Rangers. Players often spoke about how Tom's presence at games motivated them to perform at their best.

2. Bringing Fans Together:

Tom's love for the Rangers brought fans from all walks of life together. He became a unifying figure, fostering a sense of community among Rangers supporters.

3. Charity Work:

Beyond his role as a superfan, Tom was involved in charity work associated with the Rangers. His efforts helped raise funds for various causes, making a positive impact on the lives of many.

Frequently Asked Questions About "Happy Trails Tom"

1. How did Tom get his nickname, "Happy Trails Tom"?

Tom's signature catchphrase, "Happy Trails," was inspired by his optimism and the hope for a successful journey for the Rangers. He coined the phrase to celebrate Rangers victories.

2. What made Tom stand out as a Rangers fan?

Tom's unwavering support, distinctive cheers, and dedication to the team made him stand out. He was a true embodiment of Rangers fandom.

3. What legacy does Tom leave behind among Rangers fans?

Tom's legacy is one of passion, unity, and community. He showed that being a sports fan is about more than just cheering for a team; it's about connecting with others who share the same love for the game.

"Happy Trails Tom" will forever hold a special place in the hearts of New York Rangers fans. His dedication, enthusiasm, and love for the team created a unique and unforgettable presence in the Rangers community. Tom's impact extended beyond the confines of Madison Square Garden, as he brought fans together, inspired players, and made a positive difference through charity work. As we bid farewell to this Rangers legend, we remember the joy and passion he brought to the game and celebrate the enduring spirit of Rangers fandom that he embodied. Happy trails, Tom, and thank you for being an integral part of the Rangers family.