Sunday, May 10, 1998

Don't be sore sport

In response to Mr. Dawkins' letter and to whoever else is opposing an Abilene pro hockey team: Have any of you ever gone to watch Abilene's roller hockey teams at Family Roller Rink?

My son played a couple of seasons, and our family, including grandparents, aunts and uncles, thoroughly enjoyed the sport. Who's to say Abilene can't have pro hockey, football, drag strip racing and even an occasional Ice Capades?

Let's make the most of Abilene's growth and not be sore sports.

LINDA CONNELL

Abilene

No passing fad

Mr. Dawkins' questions about bringing a professional hockey team to Abilene deserve answers, and his comments have stirred me to respond, if not for his information then certainly for those who have the same issues in mind.

Proven staying power? Lord Stanley's Cup is the oldest championship in North America, bar none. It was established 106 years ago and has a very passion-filled history. Tennis' Davis Cup comes in a close second.

Passing fad? Name a single sport that has not gone through "fad" periods. Longevity is the key, and hockey has a rich history that equals any other sport.

As far as being saddled with a team, the article in the newspaper explained that the league and the owner bear all the risk.

As far as a sport that "all" of Abilene can appreciate, every person has his or her own version of appreciation.

Abilene's hockey team will live or die by the amount of attendance. Having a hockey team does not preclude having any other professional team in Abilene. If you want a football team, go get one.

Why hockey? Because it is a passionate sport that can draw crowds and money for the community. I am proud that a hockey team will have a chance to play in Abilene. I will eagerly debate anyone on the virtues of hockey versus any other sport.

I hope everyone will at least try to have an open mind and go to a game. See you in October!

HURSHEL GEORGE

Abilene

Hockey prices high

I almost wrote to complain there is nothing to do in Abilene. Then I heard about the new WPHL hockey team headed to our neighborhood. Instead of putting my pen away, I'll use it to praise this idea and complain about it at the same time.

A hockey team is a great idea. As a college student, I can already count the number of my buddies itching to see someone get checked against the boards. Some of us are from Texas, some are from the northeast and some from Canada (the hockey capital of the world). We're all pumped for the season to start next fall.

Sure, hockey in Texas isn't as familiar as football. However, hockey is a beautiful, unique sport. Give it a try. Once you see it in person, you'll see the game in a whole new light.

At least there will be a decent market for the Abilene team among the college students who are looking for fun on a weekend. That's what leaves me scratching my head, though. These ticket prices totally put college students out of the grandstand and back into our dorm rooms. According to the April 29 article in the Abilene Reporter-News, tickets will cost $8-12 plus a $3 parking fee. I guess my buddies and I will just have to go see the Anson lights for the 33rd straight weekend.

Hopefully, the team will offer some good college discounts, or else they will lose our market altogether.

MICHAEL HAGERTY

Abilene

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