Blogs from the broadcast booth - Les Stoodley

Over the time I've been associated with the Moncton Wildcats, I've come to respect and admire the strength of character the players. They have what I call, c.d.d. - Competitiveness, Desire and Dedication.

I've seen first hand the competitive personality possessed by these young men. They have an inner resource that drives them to personal levels of excellenance. Their desire to compete, sometimes against overwhelming odds, can be a lesson not only to their young fans but people much more mature in age. Their dedication to hockey and to building a full and meaningful life for themselves, is a lesson, assured to bring them success for the rest of their lives.

To illistrate my point, here's a real life situation taken from my scrapbook of Wildcat memories. The second year I was with the team as the play-by-play broadcaster, we were in Shawinigan, Quebec when the team was hit with a stomach flu virus. A couple of the players had to spend the night in the local hospital, while those who were sick were segregated from the team and those who were well were placed in another section of the Hotel, to try and avoid catching the bug. Graham Black, the team's Athletic Therapist worked non-stop with both groups.

Around noon of game day, it was determined the Wildcats were at least one player short of the required number needed to play the game. It was almost certain that two points would have to be forfeited to Shawinigan. Then out of the sick wing came Steve Bernier. He looked awful, he'd spent most of the night vomitting, got very little sleep and appeared in no condition to play hockey. What no one counted on was #96's competative spirit, his desire to help his team and his dedication to the game. Despite objections from Graham Black and the coaching staff, Steve was determined to play that game and play he did.

With many of his team too ill to play, Steve Bernier was double-shifted, played the power-play and the PK unit and turned in one of the most inspiring games of his time with the Wildcats. I ran out of adjectives, trying to describe what this young man had done and the character he showed under the most trying of conditions. He modestly accepted the thanks of his team mates and coaches following the game. He was proof positive that competitivness, desire and decication are gifts that bring greatness.

Bernier was just showing what those who have worn the Wildcats jersey have always know, the logo on the front, is far more important than the name on the back.