Out-of-town viewpoint

Dear Mr. Behan:
Never have I felt so compelled to contact the news media as I am now.
I attended the Thunder/Ice Dogs game in Fort Frances on Feb. 22 and the disgusting display of sportsmanship clearly evident that evening should be brought before the courts of law after serious consideration given by the SIJHL.
I am a 61-year-old fan of aboriginal descent and clearly a lover of the game of hockey. The reason I am letting you know that I am of aboriginal descent is that I don’t want anyone using the poor excuse of being discriminated against, which is most commonly used.
I have raised a son who was brought up through the ranks of PeeWee through to high school and into the junior league. He was taught that speed, skill, accuracy, and pure love of the game makes him a true sportsman.
What I witnessed on Feb. 22 was “true savagery.”
My thoughts are, if they matter, that they should take a long hard look at what they are teaching and make some serious change to their coaching staff.
Your spectators are much less to be desired. I had a young man—if you want to call him that—tell me to shut my (six-letter word) mouth and ask me what I knew about hockey.
I wanted to answer that, but realized it wouldn’t make much of a difference.
Youngsters nowadays have lost sight of respect for elders and that, too, is really so sad.
I was never the type of parent who sent their child to the rink. I stayed until he was done and I think a lot of today’s society lacks this—therefore losing all control.
After reading last Wednesday’s Times and reading Mr. Madill’s comments of non-regret for which took place, he should be relieved entirely of his position because this type of message should not be sent to the players who are up and coming.
Signed,
Ethel Barden-Jensson
Dryden, Ont.