This might be last Olympics with NHL players
George Csolak
Hockey at the 2010 Winter Olympics begins Tuesday in Vancouver. Enjoy it. It might be the last time fans will get to witness National Hockey League players participate.
At least I hope so.
The NHL is not committed to providing its players for the world showcase beyond 2010. Rumblings that this may be it has brought controversy and varied reaction from many around the league. I have always appreciated great hockey and the Olympics certainly have provided that in recent years.
But I have always had a hard time letting go of the fact that the Olympics are where the world’s finest amateurs go to compete. They pour their heart and soul into becoming the best in the world, training non-stop. Their dedication and commitment is without peer.
It really bothered me when the NBA began sending its Dream Team to the Summer Olympic Games. I watched one blowout and then tuned out. I was even more perturbed when the NHL got into the act. The fact is, the United States grew tired of finishing second or third or worse at the Olympics, arguing that the athletes sent by Russia, Germany, China and other countries were actually professionals anyway, so what’s the harm? Putting professionals on the stage was justified.
I never bought it.
The 1980 Olympics at Lake Placid, N.Y. provided the greatest thrill of my life. Watching the United States defeat the Soviets and then go on to defeat Finland for the gold medal provided the most electrifying moment of my life as a sports fan. I have thoroughly enjoyed re-living those moments with the likes of former Blues Bill Baker, Mark Johnson and Dave Christian, who were integral parts of that wonderful event 30 years ago. The Olympic stage belongs to amateur athletes.
http://www.globe-democrat.com/news/2010/feb/15/inside-nhl-might-be-last-olympics-nhl-players/