I was always under the impression he stayed away because of his disdain for the game. While i didn't like the interviewers style of questioning, I do appreciate that I'm better educated, and Kariya has stayed away because he's a private person, and because he's a present thinker, not dwelling on the past. What's done is done, and what is will be.
I've made no secrets he's my favorite player, and the reason I started and kept playing hockey growing up. I agree with Shanahan, that hockey would benefit from his involvement. Not only as a straightshooter, but as an ambassador. The countless people he has influenced already in his career, and doing so in the most respectable and humble way. He not only inspired me to play hockey, but he inspired me to also be a kind and respectful human being too. He truly was and probably still would be an amazing role model.
I love the walk in and interview after he walked back into an arena. I'll take it for face value, and view it as his first foray into an arena since, and his interview and smile were absolute gold. I look forward to his official induction, and his speech.
|