|
Coach Murray: Young NHL'ers Saying No To Canada Is |
|
|
|
|
|
Andy Murray is a classy guy. Anybody that knows Andy has a story or two to tell that would support this. Tonight, he was scheduled to pre-tape a radio interview with me at 10pm local time in Europe. There were some phone difficulties that Hockey Canada was experiencing on their end and he stayed up until 1:30am local time to make sure I was able to get the interview on the air tonight. A man of such class, however, does not take lightly to those who he feels are ditching out on their responsibility. Case in point, the astounding number of Canadian NHL'ers who have said no to representing Team Canada at the World Hockey Championships in Moscow.
Hear the entire interview here:
http://630ched.com/station/inside_sports.cfm?rem=70908&jor=70908
"I'm totally shocked to be honest with you...I think it's the responsibility of all the players. Having said that, you have the Joe Sakic's and the Rob Blake's that have represented their country so often that I think it's certainly justifiable that some of these veteran players don't come. But some of the younger players who have said no to Canada just makes you shake your head to be honest with you. I think it's all about appreciating what people have done for you and this country has done a lot for these players, so it is disappointing."
I submitted that perhaps some players might be aiming to avoid injury or spend more time with their families after a long season: "The reasons that you gave are not legitimate at all. We've got Shane Doan over here who left 4 children to come over here and he's represented Canada every time Canada's called. The fact that you can't give two weeks to your country makes me shake my head when we're talking about young players. You talk about risk of injury...aren't players supposed to be playing in April and May? I take a look at the Edmonton Oilers...let me tell you, every time you call the Oilers and you ask for a player the team supports it.
"Other than a veteran player who has served Canada many times in these situations, there is no excuse. Unless you've got a bone sticking through the skin, I can't see there being an injury that would cause a player not to come...I recognize knee injuries and stuff that players have to have done, too. Some of the reasons we've been given just are not satisfactory."
It's an interesting point. Should players feel an inherent responsibility to dress for their country if they are physically able? I'm with Andy on this one...if your country asks you to put that Maple Leaf on, you put that Maple Leaf on.
Join the Discussion:
»