I remember when the Ducks hired Bryan Murray as their 5th Head Coach for 2001-2002 season. It was during the Days when our team were butt of jokes and Mockery by Hockey Trolls online. extreme Trashtalk on Ducks Message Board and BS we encounter during the "Dark Times" Ducks Bringing Bryan Murray to Coach a team was many believe another struggle for the Ducks to go against the grain when our Rivals especially Enemies be it Detroit,LA,Dallas and few others at times had upper hand and Sports Pundits wrote us off many times. As news of his passing hit all Ducks Fans worldwide and many who follow this team since Day1. I can't remember impact he made not as Head Coach but a GM a year later...in Those 2 years as Ducks 3rd General Manager...in his short stint he was able to Trade for Steve Thomas,Sandis Ozolish,Petr Sykora and Rob Niedermayer in 2003 When Our Ducks who would later recruit his Brother Scott to sign with the Ducks 4 years later. He Signed a Skilled NHL Passer in Adam Oates He drafted Future Ducks Captain Ryan Getzlaf and Superpest Corey Perry in 2003 NHL Draft would play a big Part along with Rob Niedermayer in Ducks winning their First Stanley Cup on June6th 2007(Day of Great Victory). But what he mostly did was not only from the Bench but in the-Mighty Ducks Front Office. He brought as OCregister's Mark Whicker describe "brightened the vibe, hired good people, let them do good things, and exuded winning". So as many of you know without Murray's Influence Ducks would have not been where they are without a Man of his calbir who came in and turn a Young Hockey Franchise with that Funny name into a Threat in the Pacific Division.
The team He constructed not only shocked the Hockey World in 2003 Stanley Cup Playoffs but shocked our Enemies by sweeping then-Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings another Enemy Dallas stars and upstart in Minnesota Wild before battling to the End in 2003 Stanley Cup Final vs New Jeresy. Not only it gave Ducks Fans including many Die hards including myself and others a New Hope and motivated-inspiration in life.He also gave a Unknown Minor League AHL Coach named Miked Babcock a chance to be in the NHL. Babcock a Coach of Toronto Maples has won Stanley Cup with Detroit and 2 Olympic medals in Winter Olympics
As we reflect on Life of former Ducks Coach and GM Bryan Murray we should grateful and remember. As many mourn for few days and remeber this Man he had contributed to the Ducks in quiet way. His leagacy is with us in how he Jumpstarted the Ducks and pave the way for sucessors Brian Burke and Bob Murray to excel in creating the Legacy of Sucess. Bryan Murray *Raise Glass of Guinness* This one's For you!
MooseDuck
I'm a Anaheim Ducks Fan for 25 years now and i've kept an up to date book of them. I tend to try to collect anything related to my favorite NHL/hockey/Sports team. Since 1993 i have passionately cheered for this team knowing their destiny will be acheived. I know in my heart i along with many in Orange County and others live,breath,eat and sleep Anaheim Ducks.
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Saturday, August 12, 2017
Importance of Teemu Selanne and Paul Kariya in HHOF
June 26th 2017 marks another Milestone for our Anaheim Ducks, Hockey Hall of Fame electing not just Ducks Legend Teemu Selanne BUT Ducks Great Paul Kariya to be Included is very Symbolic and Importance to Anaheim Ducks and Ducks Fans worldwide. As Mention it before. Having both Ducks Legends elected is symbolic importance of the Ducks being a Successful non-traditional Hockey Market and growth of Hockey and Ducks Sphere of Influence in not only SoCal but Hockey World itself . I might add having 2 Players who not only contributed to the Ducks Cause but pave the way for the Future who is making their mark for the Ducks as of today brings credibility and positive impact on Ducks Crest from Duck Mask of "Disney Era" to Ducks D of today. Moments they have created be it together or separate. Between the 2 they made a Big Impact with the Ducks during their Tenures even though One Left due to reasons I will not get into....the Other return who later won the Stanley Cup with the Ducks in 2007.
Before there was Giguere,Niedermayer Bros,Prongs,Getzlaf and Perry there was Ducks Dynamic Duo of Kariya and Selanne....Paul was the Face of the Franchise 1994 till 2003. He dazzle the Ponda Faithful along with Teemu Selanne who arrived 2 years later in 1996. 2 Became Friends and stay in touch over the years. From 1996 till 2001 Both of them No8 and No9 Having those 2 during early years of Mighty Ducks/Anaheim Ducks History they put the team on the map and Brought more eyes and curious Hockey Fans the Ducks Flock. Kariya's Speed and his play-making made him stand out.Won Gold Medal in 2002 Winter Olympics,Winning Lady Byng Trophy Twice being the First Duck to score 50 Goals in 1995-1996. Kariya Contributed to the Ducks First ever Stanley Cup Final and aiding then-Mighty Ducks Winning their first Western Conference Championship. Teemu Selanne arrived in Feb 6th 1996. Trade was the BEST Ducks made in getting a Proven scorer and Winner. Doing so give the Ducks for 5 years Finnish Flash became 2nd Ducks Player to hit 50 Goals and during his 1st Tenure 96-97.....Winning Rocket Richard Trophy before traded to San Jose during the Ducks Dark times of struggle. It was his 2nd tenure Selanne cemented his Legacy. Contributions on and off the ice left lasting impact on Ducks and Ducks Fans locally....I can go on till midnight but you all know what he has meant to the Ducks Cause in general. Winning Masterton Trophy but also scored Winning Goal in Game 5 of 2007 WCF......his Major Contribution of course was guiding our Ducks in winning their First Stanley Cup....Joy of seeing him raise the Stanley Cup above his head was a sight to see.
As we await for the Puck to drop for the Ducks 25th season important all Ducks Fans mark it down of the Calendar Nov10th to 13th 2017 we will see 2 of the Best Ducks be enshrine in Hockey Immortality both represent our Ducks well and it will be a GLORIOUS Great for all Ducks Fans and Ducks Nation in General...as we look back at their careers Let's forward to Ducks who in 54 DAYS will be UNLEASHED once more on the NHL.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Before there was Giguere,Niedermayer Bros,Prongs,Getzlaf and Perry there was Ducks Dynamic Duo of Kariya and Selanne....Paul was the Face of the Franchise 1994 till 2003. He dazzle the Ponda Faithful along with Teemu Selanne who arrived 2 years later in 1996. 2 Became Friends and stay in touch over the years. From 1996 till 2001 Both of them No8 and No9 Having those 2 during early years of Mighty Ducks/Anaheim Ducks History they put the team on the map and Brought more eyes and curious Hockey Fans the Ducks Flock. Kariya's Speed and his play-making made him stand out.Won Gold Medal in 2002 Winter Olympics,Winning Lady Byng Trophy Twice being the First Duck to score 50 Goals in 1995-1996. Kariya Contributed to the Ducks First ever Stanley Cup Final and aiding then-Mighty Ducks Winning their first Western Conference Championship. Teemu Selanne arrived in Feb 6th 1996. Trade was the BEST Ducks made in getting a Proven scorer and Winner. Doing so give the Ducks for 5 years Finnish Flash became 2nd Ducks Player to hit 50 Goals and during his 1st Tenure 96-97.....Winning Rocket Richard Trophy before traded to San Jose during the Ducks Dark times of struggle. It was his 2nd tenure Selanne cemented his Legacy. Contributions on and off the ice left lasting impact on Ducks and Ducks Fans locally....I can go on till midnight but you all know what he has meant to the Ducks Cause in general. Winning Masterton Trophy but also scored Winning Goal in Game 5 of 2007 WCF......his Major Contribution of course was guiding our Ducks in winning their First Stanley Cup....Joy of seeing him raise the Stanley Cup above his head was a sight to see.
As we await for the Puck to drop for the Ducks 25th season important all Ducks Fans mark it down of the Calendar Nov10th to 13th 2017 we will see 2 of the Best Ducks be enshrine in Hockey Immortality both represent our Ducks well and it will be a GLORIOUS Great for all Ducks Fans and Ducks Nation in General...as we look back at their careers Let's forward to Ducks who in 54 DAYS will be UNLEASHED once more on the NHL.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Saturday, July 22, 2017
Anaheim Ducks Summer of Change!
As Many of you have know this Offseason has been Different for our Anaheim Duck. We all expected and knew Ducks would Lose A player in Expansion Draft and Not have a First Round Draft Pick since 1999. Many of us wonder,Debated and asked How will the Ducks build from their Deep Push in Stanley Cup Playoffs since their loss to Nashville in NHL's Western Conference Final. Many saw Comparisons to 06 Mighty Ducks making it to the Stanley Cup Final Four and Win it all a Year later. Some feel a Trade would push us to the Top...Right now What we saw was some Changes that saw the Ducks let go a D-man via Buyout to Signing of Ryan Miller on July 1st. IF there is one thing that unites All Ducks Fans including yours Truly is to see our Team Win the Stanley Cup and Restore Honor,Glory and Prestige to the Ducks Cause.
Losing Clayton Stoner in Expansion Draft was no Brainier to many of us Ducks Fans including myself who saw his Contract obstacle in Re-signing Lindholm and Rakell during early part of 16-17 season. Losing Him would be Justified since it will free up Cap Room for the Ducks in near future. It mark First time in 17 Year the team will lose a Player or 2 in NHL Expansion Draft(Last one was in 200 Jeff Nielsen selected by Minnesota Wild and Prospect to CBJ).Losing Stoner would be no Loss to the Ducks Over growing Defence Corps.........few days before Exp Draft which was held at same time as NHL Awards were to begin Many within Ducks Fanbase here bout Trade involving Shea Theodore going to VGK. For some Ducks Fans it was sad yet Disappointing but others knew it was indeed justified due in part Ducks were wanted to Protect Josh Manson who's Stock and value was going up in Ducks Depth Charts. Regardless We all knew with Ducks overload of Talent on Defence Corps tough Decisions had to be made. By Trading Theodore to VGK Ducks would be protecting Vatanen{inj) and Manson. As it became official We knew it was for the best...IMHO I was disappointed the Ducks did not get Draft Pick in return....It would be best Compensation since the Ducks will be facing them in Pacific Division. Yet Ducks got nothing return besides VGK deciding not to pick Manson and Vatanen. Losing Both Theodore and Stoner as days and weeks go by was No Big Loss...yet disappointing as many understood in losing Theodore without Getting something return....however for the good of the Ducks Cause it was Justified if few ways.
Another Moment of Change for the Ducks was Free agent Frenzy...July1st maybe Canada Day but for me and other Ducks Fans living Canada we treated as any other Day for Loving the sport of Hockey and the team itself. When word of Nate Thompson and Johnathan Bernier testing Free Agency by making it official in Signing Elsewhere be it Ottawa and Colorado...Ducks Knew in Order for us to fill in spots open by Departure of Nate and Bernier signing some FA's would be vital in strengthen our Depth on 1.Lower Six Forwards and 2.Signing a Backup Goalie with experience to balance out Ducks Goaltending tandem and ensure IF Gibson is out with Injury the Backup would be there to pick up where he left off. Signing of Derek Grant,Steve Olesky,Mike Liambas and Scott Sabourin....Depth Signings that will strength Ducks Depth but also giving some of these players a spot to fill till some of the Ducks Regulars who were injured during the Ducks-Nashville Battles recover. The most important signing of them all was signing of Ryan Miller who took role of not only Backup Goalie but Mentorship of Ducks Number1 Goalie John Gibson.
Many know Miller's Strong Desire to be close to his Wife and Family in California due in part his wife is actress in Hollywood. Getting him for 2 years 4Mill. 2010 Veniza Award Winner,2 Time Olympian he can bring that needed experience to the Ducks Goaltending Depth. Also his Veteran presence can be a positive influence on Gibson who at 24 years of age will be entering 17-18 season as Starter once again. It could imho Help in Gibson's Development into a Full Fledge Goaltender and imho heir in perhaps breaking Ducks alltime Goaltending Records held by Ducks Legendary Goalie J-S Giguere.
Last but not least and many have waited for this since he Retire 3 years ago....Ducks Legend and Finnish Hockey Icon Teemu Selanne was Elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame Toronto. It was something special for not just Anaheim Ducks but for all Ducks Fans worldwide from Orange County Califorina to Ducks Fans in Canada,USA,Finland,Sweden and beyond. What makes it more Positive was the fact Paul Kariya a Anaheim Ducks Great in his own Right was also elected to Hockey Hall of Fame as well. It mark for first time Ducks had 2 Players BOTH who spent most of their NHL Career with the Ducks in 24 year history and 6th and 7th Player to suit up for the Ducks to be in the Hockey Hall of Fame. Others being of course,Sergei Fedorov, Adam Oates,Scott Niedermayer, Jari Kurri and Chris Pronger....all of them including those Ducks Legends who made Big Impact contributed in advancing the Ducks Cause during 24 year History of our Unique Team.
As we enjoy the Summer and countdown to Ducks 25 NHL Season It's good to know this Summer has not only spark our Interest in our team but renew the Hope Ducks will be Hungry,Determine and Motivated to finish What they started. As for How our Ducks will look like come Training Camp aka Gathering of the Ducks...It will all come down to What Ducks will Look like when Puck Drop in October....For THEY SHALL BE UNLEASHED upon our Rivals and Enemies in NHL.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Losing Clayton Stoner in Expansion Draft was no Brainier to many of us Ducks Fans including myself who saw his Contract obstacle in Re-signing Lindholm and Rakell during early part of 16-17 season. Losing Him would be Justified since it will free up Cap Room for the Ducks in near future. It mark First time in 17 Year the team will lose a Player or 2 in NHL Expansion Draft(Last one was in 200 Jeff Nielsen selected by Minnesota Wild and Prospect to CBJ).Losing Stoner would be no Loss to the Ducks Over growing Defence Corps.........few days before Exp Draft which was held at same time as NHL Awards were to begin Many within Ducks Fanbase here bout Trade involving Shea Theodore going to VGK. For some Ducks Fans it was sad yet Disappointing but others knew it was indeed justified due in part Ducks were wanted to Protect Josh Manson who's Stock and value was going up in Ducks Depth Charts. Regardless We all knew with Ducks overload of Talent on Defence Corps tough Decisions had to be made. By Trading Theodore to VGK Ducks would be protecting Vatanen{inj) and Manson. As it became official We knew it was for the best...IMHO I was disappointed the Ducks did not get Draft Pick in return....It would be best Compensation since the Ducks will be facing them in Pacific Division. Yet Ducks got nothing return besides VGK deciding not to pick Manson and Vatanen. Losing Both Theodore and Stoner as days and weeks go by was No Big Loss...yet disappointing as many understood in losing Theodore without Getting something return....however for the good of the Ducks Cause it was Justified if few ways.
Another Moment of Change for the Ducks was Free agent Frenzy...July1st maybe Canada Day but for me and other Ducks Fans living Canada we treated as any other Day for Loving the sport of Hockey and the team itself. When word of Nate Thompson and Johnathan Bernier testing Free Agency by making it official in Signing Elsewhere be it Ottawa and Colorado...Ducks Knew in Order for us to fill in spots open by Departure of Nate and Bernier signing some FA's would be vital in strengthen our Depth on 1.Lower Six Forwards and 2.Signing a Backup Goalie with experience to balance out Ducks Goaltending tandem and ensure IF Gibson is out with Injury the Backup would be there to pick up where he left off. Signing of Derek Grant,Steve Olesky,Mike Liambas and Scott Sabourin....Depth Signings that will strength Ducks Depth but also giving some of these players a spot to fill till some of the Ducks Regulars who were injured during the Ducks-Nashville Battles recover. The most important signing of them all was signing of Ryan Miller who took role of not only Backup Goalie but Mentorship of Ducks Number1 Goalie John Gibson.
Many know Miller's Strong Desire to be close to his Wife and Family in California due in part his wife is actress in Hollywood. Getting him for 2 years 4Mill. 2010 Veniza Award Winner,2 Time Olympian he can bring that needed experience to the Ducks Goaltending Depth. Also his Veteran presence can be a positive influence on Gibson who at 24 years of age will be entering 17-18 season as Starter once again. It could imho Help in Gibson's Development into a Full Fledge Goaltender and imho heir in perhaps breaking Ducks alltime Goaltending Records held by Ducks Legendary Goalie J-S Giguere.
Last but not least and many have waited for this since he Retire 3 years ago....Ducks Legend and Finnish Hockey Icon Teemu Selanne was Elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame Toronto. It was something special for not just Anaheim Ducks but for all Ducks Fans worldwide from Orange County Califorina to Ducks Fans in Canada,USA,Finland,Sweden and beyond. What makes it more Positive was the fact Paul Kariya a Anaheim Ducks Great in his own Right was also elected to Hockey Hall of Fame as well. It mark for first time Ducks had 2 Players BOTH who spent most of their NHL Career with the Ducks in 24 year history and 6th and 7th Player to suit up for the Ducks to be in the Hockey Hall of Fame. Others being of course,Sergei Fedorov, Adam Oates,Scott Niedermayer, Jari Kurri and Chris Pronger....all of them including those Ducks Legends who made Big Impact contributed in advancing the Ducks Cause during 24 year History of our Unique Team.
As we enjoy the Summer and countdown to Ducks 25 NHL Season It's good to know this Summer has not only spark our Interest in our team but renew the Hope Ducks will be Hungry,Determine and Motivated to finish What they started. As for How our Ducks will look like come Training Camp aka Gathering of the Ducks...It will all come down to What Ducks will Look like when Puck Drop in October....For THEY SHALL BE UNLEASHED upon our Rivals and Enemies in NHL.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Monday, June 12, 2017
Our Anaheim Ducks Entry and Expansion Draft
Time for Anaheim Ducks to Focus what is important begins now. 2 few days Expansion Draft will begin and possibility our team will lose a player for 1st time in 17 years is high. Ducks will have decisions which will be tough....Who to Protect,Who to leave Unprotected or who to trade before the Exp Draft begins is going to make things interesting for this is opportunity that should be utilize by this team next week. Let's face it Ducks will have to leave some to be claimed by VGK or "Magnetos" as I will come them now........Yet It makes wonder what Ace up his sleeve. As we know Ducks need a Scoring Left Winger that was surely lacking during 16-17 Campaign. Many times Ducks Fans including myself speculate on who Ducks will give up and who will we get in return. Sami Vatanen's name popped up many times over the past few weeks...before that few months. Losing him or any Ducks Player for nothing is understandable since it will leave the Ducks nothing to be gain.
Which is why a Trade perhaps one that will SHOCK the hockey World again can Bring a sense of "WOW" and eyes on the Ducks as it did with Chris Pronger 11 years ago. IF Ducks can convince Bieksa to waive his NMC this gives Ducks to protect Fowler,Lindholm and Manson while leaving Bieska likely hood of being claim. OR say if Ducks make a trade with VGK for a player for draft picks....It can happen but possibility is unlikely since VGK will be picking one player from each of 30 teams including the Ducks. Whatever Bob Murray has in store for the Ducks it's important to see the Big Picture that lay ahead of us.
Ducks reach the NHL's Western Conference Final and doing so they must make a Pronger type Trade that will ROCK the Hockey World. 11 years ago IF Memory serves us well Ducks reach the Stanley Cup Final Four only to fall to Edm a year later they Claim their 1st Stanley Cup. Could History repeat Itself?.....Whoever Knows but as far as I am concern Expanison Draft presents the Ducks will a Chance to make a Deal If it mes Jumpstarting and Sparking that Fighting spirit of the Ducks...so BE IT!.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Which is why a Trade perhaps one that will SHOCK the hockey World again can Bring a sense of "WOW" and eyes on the Ducks as it did with Chris Pronger 11 years ago. IF Ducks can convince Bieksa to waive his NMC this gives Ducks to protect Fowler,Lindholm and Manson while leaving Bieska likely hood of being claim. OR say if Ducks make a trade with VGK for a player for draft picks....It can happen but possibility is unlikely since VGK will be picking one player from each of 30 teams including the Ducks. Whatever Bob Murray has in store for the Ducks it's important to see the Big Picture that lay ahead of us.
Ducks reach the NHL's Western Conference Final and doing so they must make a Pronger type Trade that will ROCK the Hockey World. 11 years ago IF Memory serves us well Ducks reach the Stanley Cup Final Four only to fall to Edm a year later they Claim their 1st Stanley Cup. Could History repeat Itself?.....Whoever Knows but as far as I am concern Expanison Draft presents the Ducks will a Chance to make a Deal If it mes Jumpstarting and Sparking that Fighting spirit of the Ducks...so BE IT!.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
June 6th 2007:10 years Later a Reflection by a Die hard Ducks Fan!
10 Years it seems like Yesterday yet we all remember where we were on that Special Night. All Ducks Fans know where they were watching that Game. Stanley Cup Final Game 5 at Honda Centre aka Ponda. Several Months I was in Anaheim for my Ducks/NHL Game. Getting all of Autographs of the Players,Coaching staff and Radio Broadcasters made that Night even more important. Ducks were ready,We were ready and yours truly was once the Puck Drop that Night....JS Giguere was in Net and Defence Corps was solid with likes of Norris Trophy winner Duo Scott Niedermayer and Chris Pronger,Vet Defencemen Sean O Donnell,then-Minor League D-man Francois Beauchemin along with Ric Jackman and Joe Dipenta a Reliable D-man who has roots in my hometown of Cole Harbour/Halifax Nova Scotia...Forwards comprise of Youth and Experience be it Todd Marchant,Andy Macdonald,Brad May,Rob Niedermayer,Travis Moen,Sammy Pahlsson who with Ducks Legend Teemu Selanne provide Experience. among the Forwards were the Youth who rep the Future...Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry aka "The Twins" as Ducks Fans call them,Drew Miller bro of Goalie Ryan Miller,Ryan Carter,Dustin Penner or as I call him "Big Pen" and few others including George Parros aka "Hammer of Anaheim" and a Backup Goalie with Quirky outlook on Life Ilya Bryzgalov.
That Edition of Anaheim Ducks Roster I sum up in 3 words....Youth,Experience and Aggression. Their Path to the Stanley Cup was a road where they Pummel,Defend,smash,Clawed their way to the Top. Each game I watch along with you to see imho Greatest Team our Ducks assemble made example out of Minnesota,Vancouver,Detroit(Our hated enemy) and Ottawa. I cannot express the smile I have right now as I reflect...I imagine all of you is doing the same thing. Watching a team we grew up with since Day1 and that Night of the game when the Puck Drop the Ducks were relentless,Hungry and with a Focus that is Single minded they left NOTHING to chance......They routed Ottawa 6-2 and when Buzzer sound I yelled "ANAHEIM DUCKS 4EVER". Crying tears of joy made me think of all the times I turn to this team for Motivation,Inspiration and many times invested in. Friends I made in Orange County California.....Players who signed my Ducks Uni back then. Of Course it was during my Tryst times in my youth connect with them when things were not good in my life. You can say this was my escape. It was magical and surreal...By the time Ducks Captain Scott Niedermayer....I yelled "To the Heavens" and raise my hands up in joy.
This Team that night a Decade ago was the Ducks "GOLD Standard". Now 10 years later as we look back we should always understand with motivation and Pride this team can positively impact Ducks Fans,Hockey Fans and Sports fans alike. I have read articles on Ducks Website and Of course we all watch the Ducks 2007 Stanley Cup DVD. Personally with all that has been going since 2007 the Ducks have Changed,Our outlook of this team has Changed for what it's worth we look towards our Ducks winning a 2nd Stanley Cup and restoring Glory to the Ducks Cause......It's not matter of How the Ducks win the Stanley Cup....Matter of when!. As I post this the NHL has named 2006-2007 Stanley Cup Champion Ducks as one of the Top 50 Greatest NHL Teams. That says something bout Anaheim Ducks and us as whole.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
That Edition of Anaheim Ducks Roster I sum up in 3 words....Youth,Experience and Aggression. Their Path to the Stanley Cup was a road where they Pummel,Defend,smash,Clawed their way to the Top. Each game I watch along with you to see imho Greatest Team our Ducks assemble made example out of Minnesota,Vancouver,Detroit(Our hated enemy) and Ottawa. I cannot express the smile I have right now as I reflect...I imagine all of you is doing the same thing. Watching a team we grew up with since Day1 and that Night of the game when the Puck Drop the Ducks were relentless,Hungry and with a Focus that is Single minded they left NOTHING to chance......They routed Ottawa 6-2 and when Buzzer sound I yelled "ANAHEIM DUCKS 4EVER". Crying tears of joy made me think of all the times I turn to this team for Motivation,Inspiration and many times invested in. Friends I made in Orange County California.....Players who signed my Ducks Uni back then. Of Course it was during my Tryst times in my youth connect with them when things were not good in my life. You can say this was my escape. It was magical and surreal...By the time Ducks Captain Scott Niedermayer....I yelled "To the Heavens" and raise my hands up in joy.
This Team that night a Decade ago was the Ducks "GOLD Standard". Now 10 years later as we look back we should always understand with motivation and Pride this team can positively impact Ducks Fans,Hockey Fans and Sports fans alike. I have read articles on Ducks Website and Of course we all watch the Ducks 2007 Stanley Cup DVD. Personally with all that has been going since 2007 the Ducks have Changed,Our outlook of this team has Changed for what it's worth we look towards our Ducks winning a 2nd Stanley Cup and restoring Glory to the Ducks Cause......It's not matter of How the Ducks win the Stanley Cup....Matter of when!. As I post this the NHL has named 2006-2007 Stanley Cup Champion Ducks as one of the Top 50 Greatest NHL Teams. That says something bout Anaheim Ducks and us as whole.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Sunday, April 9, 2017
Final Game of 2016-2017: BEAT LA and My Thoughs.
Tonite our Final game a Home Finale against our Enemy LA begins later today. Most of you who have been with this team at Beginning of 16-17 season had Doubts,Concerns and fears were around when the Puck Drop in October....most of us had doubts including myself on whether RC will return our Ducks to the Postseason. After several ups and Downs...Wins,Losses and inconsistency the team was able to Persevere and overcome adversity that afflicted them. From injuries to short contract talks that stalled Swedish Duo(Lindholm and Rakell),Questions on How will John Gibson handle the Number 1 Ducks Goalie Position ended when they Clinched their 13th Stanley Cup Playoff Berth. 5th Straight year in row and perhaps on top of the Pacific Division when the Ducks Destroy LA this Night.
What we seen in this team for 16-17 season is Ducks defied the Odds once again under Carlyle's 2nd Tour he has stay the course despite Criticism of Ducks Fans among Ducks Nation. As we look back we should not forget the moments of how this team has once again Prove they are the Underdogs and worthy of reclaiming the Stanley Cup...It's a Young team mixed with Youth,Experince and Motivation to succeed. Question remains is HOW far will our Ducks Go...Once the Puck Drop in the First Round of the Playoffs whoever Ducks Face we must NEVER EVER take them lightly and go for the KILL. As for tonite against LA much as it's meaningless to some while important to all...Ducks MUST make a BIG Statement by making Example out of LA...GO FOR THE KILL and BREAK LA's Will. As far as I am concern I am Happy with where the Ducks Finish this season. For now BRING ON THE Playoffs and BEAT LA Tonite!.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
What we seen in this team for 16-17 season is Ducks defied the Odds once again under Carlyle's 2nd Tour he has stay the course despite Criticism of Ducks Fans among Ducks Nation. As we look back we should not forget the moments of how this team has once again Prove they are the Underdogs and worthy of reclaiming the Stanley Cup...It's a Young team mixed with Youth,Experince and Motivation to succeed. Question remains is HOW far will our Ducks Go...Once the Puck Drop in the First Round of the Playoffs whoever Ducks Face we must NEVER EVER take them lightly and go for the KILL. As for tonite against LA much as it's meaningless to some while important to all...Ducks MUST make a BIG Statement by making Example out of LA...GO FOR THE KILL and BREAK LA's Will. As far as I am concern I am Happy with where the Ducks Finish this season. For now BRING ON THE Playoffs and BEAT LA Tonite!.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Friday, March 31, 2017
10 Years ago This Week!: My First Anaheim Ducks Trip Pt2
Anxious,Nervous,Anxiety and Joy....those were the feelings I felt as My uncle Drove me to Anaheim. As I enter Orange County I though about past 14 years and how this team has gone from Expansion team with Funny name to a Team contending for the Stanley Cup not Once.....But Twice. after half and hr I saw it....Honda Center FKA Arrowhead Pond. I was taken back by the Arena...It's size was Magnificent in my Eyes which was popping out by then..Checking into the Ayres Inn I got a room with view of the Honda Centre at the 3rd level of Hotel across of the Honda....Deep down I knew I made the Right choice as My Uncle and Dad left I felt so much emotions through me...happiness,Pride,Joy and alot more. I Contacted a Friend I have mad via Ducks Message Board while in my room as I stare at the Honda Centre speaking with so much Joy I think he was either surprise or perhaps expect enthusiasm from a Canadian up North..I had to pinch myself few times and let it sink in I was actually going to see the team I have love,Appreciated and has been My escape while Growing in Nova Scotia.
Many of you know who read know all too well bout my passion for this team and recording each Accomplishment from year to year since Anaheim Ducks were founded in 1993. For those 14 Years I did everything possible to keep track of the team...From watching it late night to listening via Internet Radio all the way to watching Higlights of the games during Ducks First 5 years. Anyways I went down to the Lobby to meet my friend and his family who we will call Z. anticipation add in with my introverts makes me jumpy abit....as I waited I though of the games I watch from the First on CBC where the Ducks won 3-1 over Toronto to epic games of 2003 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Now seeing the team Live was dream come true for someone who has a Passionate Zealous of Hockey and Ducks in General...What Can I say I am Passionate. I lost track of time when a Car pulled up. Z introduce himself to me we shook hands..He introduce me to his Daughter and his younger son along with a Companion of his Daughter. As we drove we talk Hockey from the Players to the Ducks and NHL Itself..He Inform me of what Locals call Honda Centre..."Honda Ponda or Ponda" as they call it. Thinking about it now in Halifax Nova Scotia that name makes me smile during that car ride to the OC Grill. First west Coast Beer I tried was Belgian Blue Moon. Pretty Good Beer along with later Dos Equis I develop a Good taste in Beer and Craft Beer like JT Schmidts IPA and I always consider those 2 the Best along with JT Schmidt's Microbrewery.
Before we arrive at the Ponda Me Z and Z's Kids arrive at another place where I met other Ducks Fans who correspondence at Ducks Message Board...at least dozen or so...I was overwhelm but I put up smile and was happy to meet each and talk to them bout Ducks Hockey and interest non-Hockey related. 2 People stand out DNC and CL....Bout Ducks Fans bout who I consider to this day as with Z as Friends Who I think about and talk to from time to time. IMHO it felt great Meeting these people who consider my friends was eye opening experience. I never met so much kindness especially with those who share My love for Anaheim Ducks and Hockey itself......We took a Picture me,Z,DNC,CL and few others. I am trying to remember that place..for it was there Z gave me a Gift. 2007 Anaheim Ducks Home Uniform....It was Black I quickly put it on as we drove to the Ponda.....
What can I say about the Ponda.....Honda Centre,Pond or Honda Ponda one thing that made me be in awe was the fact each step I took it was almost like a Dream a living one at best. I ran up and Kiss the Feet of Wild Wing Statue....reason for that...I really Don't know Z was gracious enough to take a Picture of me and the Wild Wing Statue while others waited. I still have that Photo and looking at it now that day was the Best day of my Life.
Entering the Ponda was something that I never would expect to Locals your Arena is Beautiful and special but to me Personally and I believe others feel it too there was sense of something special about it..Entering through the Mains doors Walking and seeing it for the first time............There was a Sense of something special that Night. There was also a sense of Reverence and Gathering place of the People........... Call me crazy or delusion but to me walking through the concourse from place to place. Taking pictures from Guy Hebert Exhibit honoring his service to the Duck Cause to the Banners flying high which at that time had Mighty Ducks 2003 Western Conference Championship Banner,Inaugural Year Banner and Mighty Decade Banner....It was a sacred placed
Once the Puck Drop I took My seat in the First Period in the 2nd and 3rd. I sat next 2 Z and His Son.
Game was Glorious,Exciting and I say again...I met other Ducks Fans I correspondent and talk on Ducks Message Board...all I become good friends. I was deeply Humble they put up a Ducks Message for me...flatterly and Humble...Game was everything I knew of the team. Hardhitting,fast pace from pregame to the end I took it all in for the Ducks won that Night in a Big way. 5-1 over Edmonton....
After the game I met with my friends at a Place called the Old Number 7 Man oh Man How i love the Atomsphere i Can remeber it all one thing I remember well was the getting Autograph of Bryzgalov,Ric Jackman and Meeting Brian Burke......He is Big I mean REALLY Big. attending the post game show with Steve Carrol and Brent Severyn was special these 2 I hear their Voices on Internet radio...Carrol was kind enough to give me a Media Guid...Still have it to this Day.
After the game CL and DNC treated for dinner...late night VERY LATE night I was quiet cause I was still taking it all in....Once they drop me off at Ayres I thank and told them I will meet them again...back in the Hotel I cried not of sadness but Tears of Joy it was first time I was treated with such Kindness it made me rethink everything bout the world I see.....For now tommorow I lay in bed planning for the Next day...TBC.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
Many of you know who read know all too well bout my passion for this team and recording each Accomplishment from year to year since Anaheim Ducks were founded in 1993. For those 14 Years I did everything possible to keep track of the team...From watching it late night to listening via Internet Radio all the way to watching Higlights of the games during Ducks First 5 years. Anyways I went down to the Lobby to meet my friend and his family who we will call Z. anticipation add in with my introverts makes me jumpy abit....as I waited I though of the games I watch from the First on CBC where the Ducks won 3-1 over Toronto to epic games of 2003 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Now seeing the team Live was dream come true for someone who has a Passionate Zealous of Hockey and Ducks in General...What Can I say I am Passionate. I lost track of time when a Car pulled up. Z introduce himself to me we shook hands..He introduce me to his Daughter and his younger son along with a Companion of his Daughter. As we drove we talk Hockey from the Players to the Ducks and NHL Itself..He Inform me of what Locals call Honda Centre..."Honda Ponda or Ponda" as they call it. Thinking about it now in Halifax Nova Scotia that name makes me smile during that car ride to the OC Grill. First west Coast Beer I tried was Belgian Blue Moon. Pretty Good Beer along with later Dos Equis I develop a Good taste in Beer and Craft Beer like JT Schmidts IPA and I always consider those 2 the Best along with JT Schmidt's Microbrewery.
Before we arrive at the Ponda Me Z and Z's Kids arrive at another place where I met other Ducks Fans who correspondence at Ducks Message Board...at least dozen or so...I was overwhelm but I put up smile and was happy to meet each and talk to them bout Ducks Hockey and interest non-Hockey related. 2 People stand out DNC and CL....Bout Ducks Fans bout who I consider to this day as with Z as Friends Who I think about and talk to from time to time. IMHO it felt great Meeting these people who consider my friends was eye opening experience. I never met so much kindness especially with those who share My love for Anaheim Ducks and Hockey itself......We took a Picture me,Z,DNC,CL and few others. I am trying to remember that place..for it was there Z gave me a Gift. 2007 Anaheim Ducks Home Uniform....It was Black I quickly put it on as we drove to the Ponda.....
What can I say about the Ponda.....Honda Centre,Pond or Honda Ponda one thing that made me be in awe was the fact each step I took it was almost like a Dream a living one at best. I ran up and Kiss the Feet of Wild Wing Statue....reason for that...I really Don't know Z was gracious enough to take a Picture of me and the Wild Wing Statue while others waited. I still have that Photo and looking at it now that day was the Best day of my Life.
Entering the Ponda was something that I never would expect to Locals your Arena is Beautiful and special but to me Personally and I believe others feel it too there was sense of something special about it..Entering through the Mains doors Walking and seeing it for the first time............There was a Sense of something special that Night. There was also a sense of Reverence and Gathering place of the People........... Call me crazy or delusion but to me walking through the concourse from place to place. Taking pictures from Guy Hebert Exhibit honoring his service to the Duck Cause to the Banners flying high which at that time had Mighty Ducks 2003 Western Conference Championship Banner,Inaugural Year Banner and Mighty Decade Banner....It was a sacred placed
Once the Puck Drop I took My seat in the First Period in the 2nd and 3rd. I sat next 2 Z and His Son.
Game was Glorious,Exciting and I say again...I met other Ducks Fans I correspondent and talk on Ducks Message Board...all I become good friends. I was deeply Humble they put up a Ducks Message for me...flatterly and Humble...Game was everything I knew of the team. Hardhitting,fast pace from pregame to the end I took it all in for the Ducks won that Night in a Big way. 5-1 over Edmonton....
After the game I met with my friends at a Place called the Old Number 7 Man oh Man How i love the Atomsphere i Can remeber it all one thing I remember well was the getting Autograph of Bryzgalov,Ric Jackman and Meeting Brian Burke......He is Big I mean REALLY Big. attending the post game show with Steve Carrol and Brent Severyn was special these 2 I hear their Voices on Internet radio...Carrol was kind enough to give me a Media Guid...Still have it to this Day.
After the game CL and DNC treated for dinner...late night VERY LATE night I was quiet cause I was still taking it all in....Once they drop me off at Ayres I thank and told them I will meet them again...back in the Hotel I cried not of sadness but Tears of Joy it was first time I was treated with such Kindness it made me rethink everything bout the world I see.....For now tommorow I lay in bed planning for the Next day...TBC.
DuckPride 4ever
MooseDuck
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