Opportunity to Communicate - November 19, 2007
Howard Dolgon - President & CEO
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
I am delighted to have this opportunity to communicate with our fans on an on-going basis.
Those of you who know me, and others who have seen me at our home games, know that I wear my emotions on my sleeves when it comes to our hockey team. At times, I'm a little too emotional and blunt with my opinions on what occurs both on and off the ice.
But that's not going to change.
Just 18 games into our season, I strongly believe that our hockey club has underachieved. Despite the injuries and call-ups (which have been minimal to date), we have played nowhere near our capabilities. And to me, that's extremely frustrating . . . but at the same time encouraging.
We've had prior seasons where our talent level - - both veterans and prospects - - was simply not very good. We knew that unless we played over our heads, or at the very least up to our capablitities, it would be difficult for our squad to compete against the better teams in the AHL.
This year, based on the talent on our roster, we should be able to compete and beat any team in the league on a regular basis.
The trade which brought us two new defensemen didn't happen over night but will make this team a lot better in the long run. In Clay Wilson we picked up a much needed offensive defenseman with tremendous upside. Aaron Rome is a physical, veteran d-man who plays with a a mean streak - - an attribute we believe was lacking and necessary to have.
And don't think we're done trying to make our club better. Because we're not. Columbus is well aware of our shortcomings and hopefully in the very near future - - with a willing partner - - make another deal that will strengthen our team. Trust me when I say they are actively looking to do so.
I remain optimistic, but like you my patience is beginning to wear thin. Syracuse expects a winner. Columbus expects a winner. And we are both determined to deliver a winner to you, our fans.
Hang in there.