Here’s an idea that can improve on the current disbandment and keep the hockey regular season going.
Consider for a moment that the players and teams had another viable option besides the Bettman crowd. One that would step in and do the business end of the league, as well as administration, day-to-day operations, marketing, legal, medical …
Ideally, this group would be made up of qualified, willing, and capable fans, as well as representatives from each team. It would be called something like NFHL (National Amateur Hockey League).
There are many wealthy and / or capable fans with skills that can be employed by the billions of dollars generated by a sport driven by a love of the sport (fans) as well as talented players.
Think about it: Players want to play, fans want the sport to continue its course, and stadiums will be more than willing to fill their seats with paying fans. What else do we need?
I am not a great dreamer, I consider myself a pragmatic realist. I have no illusions about the scale of such a company and the complexity involved in terms of logistics, legalities and all the other obstacles that come with the territory of a company of this magnitude. But I still think that a smart group of true fans can get the ball rolling. If it’s not in time to save this season, we will at least be ready for the next lockout. Judging by the difference in philosophies on both sides of the NHL coin, this will not be the last.
Worst; we work hard and before we can involve the players, the venues and all the other components of the machine, they reach an agreement and our efforts will not. Consider it ready for next time.
Maybe; We offer players a fair, meaningful and lasting deal and they can still negotiate for years with the Bettman crowd. Meanwhile, we share a smaller slice of a billion dollar pie while preserving the integrity of the sport, focusing on improving the game directly, implementing safety standards and regulations, developing expansion into markets that exist globally, etc.
The basis of the idea is that it arises from the love of sport. Don’t forget that your favorite players (regardless of what jersey they wear) have loved this sport since they were kids. Whereas today’s children can no longer see the best of the best due to external issues that defeat the purpose of the game. What a way to lose, for all of us.
Correct me if you think I’m wrong, but I think fans (myself included) would rather pay for hockey tickets knowing that Bettman’s crowd won’t get a hundred. It seems like an opportunity to me, considering that all the ingredients (players, venues, fans) are willing and able to let the season continue. Let’s put an end to these unsolvable mysteries that unfold like a dog and pony show.
Always remember – FANS HAVE THE POWER – It’s our sport, as well as our money, that drives it.
Just one thought for now. But a pretty powerful one according to the fans I mentioned it to.
So what do you think? Is it feasible?
