WHY WE FIGHT AND THE 'REAL' FIGHT, OLYMPIC STYLE

Here we go again...Olympic hockey conjuring up the, "what if", with regard to the issue of fighting in hockey. Is the answer to this perplexing question as simple as, we allow it, therefore, condone it. I believe this is indeed the case. Especially in light of the Olympic hockey tournament and the terrific hockey we have been exposed to. I love hard, physical play, it is required of the Canadian game, it can be an equalizer to faster, more skilled opponents.  It could be argued that physicality in hockey is the thread to the fabric of our game. I would have it no other way.

However, fighting is not required, it is allowed...therefore, it happens. Many who have played the game at the highest level, feel indebted to the pugilists who have infused the game with intimidation, that has in turn, created more space and time for them to ply their trade. I contend hard and physical play creates the same enviroment for the more skilled player. Yes many have created fiscal opportunity for themselves, their families and the leagues that condone fighting, but at what cost?  Physical injury not withstanding, we have paid a price. I believe the rest of the world catching up to Canada, came at a time when our best players were being used to expand the game into the U.S, by making it a spectacle of violence and intimidation.(late 60's through the 70's)  I witnessed this metamorphisis first hand, and it has created what proponents to fighting would define as "traditional" or "required" aspects. The notion that fighting has a history in hockey, does little to underscore the benefit to the game. Had we focused on skill and speed as an impetus for our deveoping players, our game would reap the full benefit, then and now.

When the world looked to Canada as a leader, they took the best parts of our game, and honed their game accordingly. Fighting was not one of these components. I look to the Olympics/World Championships as real opportunities to showcase what we are capable of, in terms of embracing a sport in it's best, purest form...not it's basest. I hope this post is cause for readers to pause and reflect on what matters most. I believe hockey should base its guiding principals on sportsmanship and skill...like other sports do. Cheers to effort and integrity, perhaps a golden moment, also! 

Sincerely Mark Presley