[Incogneto]

Dear Flames Players,

Before the biggest game in Calgary in I-cant-remember-how-long, win or lose, I just wanted to take a quick moment of your time to tell you how much I, a 12 year season ticket holder, has appreciated this team. But its been more than just your play. It’s your chemistry together. And your heart and desire on the ice. And how you seemingly play for the love of the game, for your coaches, and most importantly, for one another. All of these things have made this season the most enjoyable season since this franchise went to the Stanley Cup in 2004.

I love all parts of this team. I love your plucky, never-give-up attitudes when you’re down late in the games. I love a patch-work defence core that gave 100% all season, and even more once the heart was ripped out 19 games ago with the loss of your leader. I love guys like Kris Russell and Lance Bouma, who put their health and well-being on the line every time a puck is shot from the point. I love Matt Stajan for all that he embodies with the family issues he had a year ago. I will admit it, at one point in 2012 you were my biggest goat on this team, Matt, but you have won me over. I love Mark Giordano for what he did on the ice, but more importantly, what he is doing off the ice while recovering from this brutal injury.

I love the kids that have played the hard minutes. Jooris, Granlund, Shore, Porier, Wolf, but especially Ferland, because being from Brandon, I know who you are and how you grew up. I think your feel-good story is second to none, and can’t wait to see your continued progression into an everyday NHL player.

But most of all, I love the top line. I wear a #13 Gaudreau jersey every game which I purchased at the home opener. I was one of those fans that was so excited to see you put your name on a contract after the Frozen Four last year, and not only have you met expectations, you have blown them out of the water. Sean Monahan is just a beast! You were a beacon of light last year, and have developed into a star. This fan base needed someone like you to forget the greatness of #12s of the past. And Lastly, Jiri, I am looking at you. You are the glue that holds this team together. You are the bridge between old and new, and you are the one that taught this young team how to approach the game…With hard work and desire. I give you the most credit of all for the fact that in Game #81, we have a chance to go to the post-season.

So win or loss tonight, boys, I am so proud to call myself a fan of the Calgary Flames. Thank you for everything you have done in 2014-2015. Thank you for the blood, sweat, and tears you have left on the ice. I am only a mere fan, but I am a Calgarian, and I appreciate what you have done for this city.

Now go kick some King Ass!
Marty