There are some things you need to know before you get the 2010-2011 NHL season started as a member of the Broadway Blueshirts. I will attempt to lay them out for you to make your transition to New York easier. If you keep these in mind, your stay will be an enjoyable and, hopefully, productive one. Best of luck.
1- First and foremost, being a Ranger requires respect. Respect for your teammates. Respect for the jersey. Respect for the fans. Respect the Rangers. Everything else on this list falls under this dictum. Respect. It sounds simple, but it's not. It's a complete way of being that will require hard work but the payoff is virtually limitless - watch the tape of Eddie Giacomin's return with the Red Wings.
2 - Always, ALWAYS have your teammate's back. There is nothing worse than seeing a player get hit in a vulnerable position without retribution. That especially goes for your goaltender and your superstar. Lookin' at you Dan-o.
3 - I mentioned hard work. That is what is expected of you. Anything less - let up for just one moment of one shift - and the results will be disastrous. During that lapse a goal may be scored against the Rangers, or it may not. Either way, someone will notice - I'm especially good at it and I sure as hell will call you on it. The Rangers are the most scrutinized NHL team not in Canada, both by the media and by the fans. You do not want to let up in this town. At the same time, even if things aren't going your way - go without scoring for games at a time, whatever - if you are visibly working hard you will given a pass for quite a while ... Chris Higgins made it for months. You may look around at the fans down by the ice and see the nice clothes, the Blackberries and the models, but don't be fooled: this is a blue collar fanbase that expects and appreciates hard work.
4 - Meet the fans, greet the fans. They are your best asset on the ice, better than any newfangled composite stick or heated skateblade. You may have played in the Garden in the past, you may have not. But you have never felt anything like it when you have 18,200 New Yorkers getting your back, helping you up, pushing you forward. At the same time, that 18,200 can be merciless. This goes back to No. 2, if you don't show maximum effort, you will face the ire of the fans and trust me, you won't enjoy it.
5 - Maximum effort is an understatement when the Islanders, Devils or Flyers are in town. Those are the times that you have to go above and beyond. There is no faster way to the hearts of the fans than through the franchise's biggest rivals. In this day and age of free agency (which may have brought you here), rivalries are harder to cling to for players - you may have friends and former teammates on the other side of the ice - but they are grossly important to the fans. Go out to dinner with your buds, go on vacation with them, whatever - from the second that puck drops, you had better be out for blood. Players come and go but that jersey that you pull on has been around for a long time and that means something. That Blueshirt comes with the baggage of hatred for wrongs past. It may sound petty, but it is a part of life. And, if you use it right - through the aforementioned hard work - then it is a very, very good thing.
6 - You know that quiet guy who is hanging around practice? The mild-mannered fellow with his name and number nine in the rafters. Listen to him. If he says something, it's for a reason. If he acts a certain way, it's for a reason. And that reason is always the betterment of the franchise and, frankly, the betterment of yourself. Pay attention to Adam Graves. You will not find a better role model in your search for what it means to be a Ranger. There is a reason why he is beloved in this city, and what he did on the ice is only part of the explanation. And that big, bald crying guy up in the office? Messier? Yeah, him too.
7 - Give not to temptation. New York never closes and there is fun to be had no matter what your vice may be. But if you give in to it, then you are breaking No. 1 on this list. There is a time and place for everything, and while you wear that jersey the time is not right for nefarious activities.
8 - Spend some time reading up on the past. The more you read about the 84 year history of the franchise, the more you will understand just how important No. 1 on this list is. A lot of people have put their blood, sweat and tears into building the Rangers and the least you can do is know who they were.
9 - Don't be afraid to speak your mind because honesty is indeed the best policy. Silly, right? Not at all. When speaking to the media or to the press, one of the worse things you can do is speak in benign cliches ... no matter what captain Drury does. There is no such thing as 110%. You can only take things one game, or one day, at a time. And you don't always get the bounces. We know that; tell us how, tell us why. You can't be afraid to show your personality, because that is who you are and we want to know you. We want to root for you. We want to see you succeed.
10 - Don't believe the hype. There are a lot of people playing pundit, a lot of people shooting their (our) mouths off. Expectations aren't as high as they have been in the past due to last year's failure but this is still New York and success is always demanded. But that will come if you work hard, listen to the coaches and play your game to the best of your ability.
This list may seem daunting, but you will be pulling on a Blueshirt and these are the things that come with the jersey.
Let's Go Rangers.
-Scotty Hockey
ChatGPT
Title: An Open Letter To Those at Camp 2010-11
Introduction
Dear Camp 2010-11 Alums,
As the years pass and our lives take different paths, it's essential to reflect on the moments that have shaped us. Camp 2010-11 was one such moment in our lives—an experience that brought us together, taught us valuable lessons, and created memories that we will cherish forever. This open letter serves as a tribute to that time and a way to reconnect, reminisce, and reflect on our shared journey.
In the following pages, we will revisit the camp's highlights, relive the lessons we learned, and answer some frequently asked questions that have come up over the years. Whether you were a camper, counselor, or staff member, this letter is for you.
Camp 2010-11 Highlights
Friendships that Stand the Test of Time: One of the most enduring gifts of Camp 2010-11 is the friendships we formed. Those late-night talks, shared laughter, and adventures have cemented bonds that have lasted through the years. Whether you're across the street or across the world, the connections made at camp remain strong.
Life Lessons in Resilience: Camp 2010-11 taught us the importance of resilience. From conquering fears on the high ropes course to enduring rainy days in leaky tents, we learned that setbacks are a part of life. These experiences have equipped us with the strength to face challenges head-on.
Campfire Stories and Traditions: Who could forget the unforgettable campfire stories, the taste of s'mores, or the camp songs we sang with gusto? These traditions, passed down from generation to generation of campers, created a sense of belonging and continuity that transcended time.
Leadership Opportunities: For those who were counselors or staff members, Camp 2010-11 provided an early taste of leadership and responsibility. It was a chance to inspire and guide the next generation, an experience that shaped our outlook on mentorship and teamwork.
Lessons We Learned
Teamwork: Camp 2010-11 was a living laboratory for teamwork. From setting up camp to navigating the wilderness, we learned that no task was too big when we worked together. These lessons in collaboration have served us well in our personal and professional lives.
Independence: Many of us experienced moments of independence at camp—whether it was cooking a meal, navigating the forest, or taking care of ourselves. These experiences fostered a sense of self-reliance that has been invaluable in adulthood.
Appreciating Nature: Spending time in the great outdoors at camp allowed us to develop a deep appreciation for nature. We learned to respect and care for the environment, a lesson that has taken on new significance as environmental issues have become more pressing.
Resilience and Adaptability: Rain or shine, camp went on. We learned to adapt to changing circumstances and face adversity with a smile. These lessons in resilience have helped us navigate the unpredictable challenges of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What was your most memorable campfire story or song?
Campfire stories and songs were an integral part of the camp experience. Many of us have fond memories of these moments. Share your favorite story or song and the memories associated with it.
2. How has your camp experience influenced your life as an adult?
Reflect on the ways in which your camp experience has shaped your adult life. Whether it's your approach to teamwork, leadership, or a love for nature, camp left a lasting impact.
3. Did you keep in touch with anyone from camp after all these years?
Friendships made at camp often transcend time and distance. Share stories of how you've maintained these connections or reconnected with fellow campers or counselors.
4. What challenges did you face at camp, and how did you overcome them?
Camp presented its fair share of challenges, from homesickness to braving the great outdoors. Share your experiences of facing challenges at camp and the valuable lessons you learned.
5. What is your favorite camp memory, and why does it hold a special place in your heart?
Reflect on your favorite camp memory and the reasons it remains a cherished moment. Whether it's a particular adventure, a special friendship, or a lesson learned, share the significance of that memory.
Conclusion
Camp 2010-11 was a time of growth, friendship, and learning. It was a moment in our lives that shaped who we are today and left us with memories that continue to bring smiles to our faces. As we journey through life, let us remember the lessons we learned, the friendships we forged, and the adventures we embarked on.
So, to all the campers, counselors, and staff members of Camp 2010-11, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for being a part of this remarkable experience. As we move forward in our lives, may we carry the spirit of camp with us—a spirit of resilience, teamwork, and appreciation for the beauty of nature. And, may we always find ways to reconnect, reminisce, and relive those cherished memories that make us who we are today.
No comments:
Post a Comment