The stats are obvious… or are they?

During the month of October 2015, the 2001 Toronto Marlboros engaged in 12 highly competitive hockey games. After games, a lot of people were heard on cell phones, excited exclaiming: “You should have seen this game!”

The stats are racking up, but in the case of the ’01 Marlboros, specifically for the month of October, do they really tell the truth? Like the people exclaiming - “You should have seen the game,” – you really should have seen the game(s)!

Had you been there, you would be well aware of the fact that the team, with a greatly shortened bench due to injuries, was not only “firing on all cylinders,” they were “pushing the pedal to the metal,” and “going the extra mile” in every regard!

With 10 practices throughout the month; 7 GTHL games; and 5 tournament games, in Grand Bend Indiana, at the fabled Notre Dame University - according to the Coaching Staff, parent group, and all in attendance, the 2001 Toronto Marlboros played some of their best hockey to date!

The results of all that hockey: 5 wins, 4 losses, and three ties. Statistics aside, with a greatly shortened bench, the true potential of each player became truly apparent, as exceptional efforts were delivered, right across the entire team and consistently, throughout the month!

October is also, “Breast Cancer Awareness Month.”

Who doesn’t have a personal story, regarding “cancer?” Sadly, the fight against all types of cancers persist, and almost everyone you know, you included, has a story about a journey through cancer, that has captured their hearts, imaginations, and search for answers.

Contributing to the community is never far behind the rigorous on-ice demands of the 2001 Toronto Marlboro team. With October being “Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” the team created a special sticker, to heighten awareness, and to shine greater light on this very worthwhile cause.

Throughout the month of October, those stickers were proudly displayed on the helmets of each player, and as a team, the decision has been made to continue to honor this worthy campaign of awareness, by wearing those stickers for the remainder of the 2015- 2016 hockey season.

To summarize the month of October 2015, on ice, there really is no obvious story to be found in the stats! Come out to watch a game. Bring your family and tell your friends! Once you and your family have seen a game or two - compare your own experience of having witnessed this fine hockey team in action, with the stats.

You may have an entirely different experience and your sharing of that experience; will in all likelihood, go well beyond the stats!

By Dan Bodanis