Former Spartan and current Anaheim Duck Drew Miller brought the Stanley Cup back to his hometown of East Lansing Thursday for a special public viewing. I was really bummed that I couldn't go. But in light of the occasion, I wanted to tell you all the reason why I like Drew so much. I honestly don't think I've ever told anyone this story...
It was the fall of 2004, prior to my State News days, and I was a fresh-faced sophomore living in Wilson Hall. Like many young journalism majors, I was enrolled in JRN 200, and completely intimidated by it. Our first assigned story we had to write was a trend. I chose to do mine on the then-current NHL strike and how college hockey might attract more interest because of it. I called Rick Comley in his office and he was kind enough to talk to me. But I also needed to interview a player or two. I had been to a party at the hockey house my freshman year, but didn't really know any of the guys other than what I saw on TV and at the rink, and read in the papers. I sent out an e-mail to Drew Miller , seeing as how he was an assistant captain that year, unsure of whether or not he would respond. (This was before I knew the magic of Sports Information Directors.) About two hours later, I got a response from Drew answering every question in very thorough detail. It was the nicest thing anyone had done for me in awhile at the present time.
About 2 months later, I was employed by The State News and assigned to the hockey beat. I remember going to practice with Matt Bishop to meet the captains and get comfortable with the beat. When I formally met Drew, he did kind of a double-take, like he recognized me from somewhere. The first thing I did was thank him for helping me out with the JRN 200 story. He smiled and brushed it off like it was no big deal. Classic Drew. Since then, I've covered Spartan hockey for three years and have become a die-hard fan and loyal supporter in addition. I've always had a great relationship with Drew, too. He's a total class-act, having started numerous charities in the Lansing area, and having been an influential part of the community with his service and good-will. I met Drew's older brother, and current Buffalo Sabres goalie Ryan, about a year ago and he was the same way. Ryan didn't know who in the hell I was, but gave me and the friends I was with the time of day. We must have talked to him for a half hour. Hockey players may not get the press that some other sports get, but there's no better athletes in the world as far as good nature and genuine kindness. Drew is no exception. So congratulations to Drew Miller on his Stanley Cup Championship he helped earn!
Now the moment you've all be waiting for.....
The World Premiere of FISH vs. WILD. For some reason, Veoh decides its cool to cut off some of the screen when linked to the blog, so feel free to see the entire thing at http://www.veoh.com/videos/v739108Zp7ZbGPr
Online Videos by Veoh.com
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2 comments:
Loved the video. Especially, "Where did we park our bikes?!"
When I see Eric Fish walk away from the sports desk to the photo area, all I can hear in my head is "There goes my hero, watch him as he goes." Now, I'll hear that in his British accent.
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