Readers Speak Out About Star's Female High School Hockey All-stars

I expected feedback on the Toronto Star's annual high school hockey all-stars. But, honestly, nowhere near the reaction that came in - and it wasn't even lunch time on Tuesday. I am sure there is more coming and we like it when people express their feelings and opinions.

Let me first clarify that the comments were about the 2010 girls' all-star teams - first and second. Yes, the boys' team will be announced soon.

Each year, we do our best to recognize six players who had a banner year for their high school teams. Always considered is the accomplishment on the ice, the leadership, stats are important too - although it's not mandatory that a player chosen be the next Hayley Wickenheiser. It's also nice if the players are doing well in school and are good role models in the community.

The comments were, shall I say, very interesting. One thing should be made clear: We don't pick players because their parents call us, coaches think they're the best in the world, etc. We picked players in their graduating year for our first team and we consulted with a variety of university, high school and rep coaches. Asked for opinions from game officials and other players. Even saw players in game action - and it does help when they win a provincial championship.

One person didn't like that we were "showing off young girls". Another individual was big on grades and not happy that we had a player with a 60 per cent average and thought they should all be students with academic honours. An e-mailer was upset that we had players who were chosen in previous years. Ah, can you not have a second year of excellence on ice?

Several people had some harsh words about choosing school and hockey in the United States. There were others who thought I didn't have a clue about hockey and two people who accused me of  "deliberately" leaving players off the team.

The e-mail and voicemail seemed to go on and on until I heard one message praising the Star for devoting a full page to showcase six very good players and six more on a sceond team. Yes, someone actually took the time to say something positive. Thanks to Stan, whoever you are, and I'd buy you a coffee. To be fair, some parents have called now, teachers too.

Huge thanks to Bob Bishop for his page design. And splendid photography from Aaron Harris.

If you missed the paper, you can still catch this salute to female high school hockey talent on our website. As for autographs, you're on your own.

Comments

[Peter]

I don't know how you deal with some of these characters.

[A.J. Humphrey]

Nice to see these girls get some attention but how about the real hockey players. Where are the guys?

[Big John]

I wanted to send along a few words about how nice it was to see that a newspaper cares so much about girls hockey in high schools. That should send a message to the others.

[M. Sykes]

Opinions, opinions and opinions. There comes a time when you reporters at the Toronto Star have to ignore those who don't make much sense. Instead, go with the majority. Sadly, that majority likes to keep things quiet. Some come out of the woodwork and condemn when things don't go the way they see it. Welcome to the world.

[C. Chamberlain]

I enjoyed reading and seeing that great page in the Toronto Star and keep your blogs coming because they're fun to read and I like seeing some of the reactionary comments.

[Sharon]

Go girls go. So nice to see high school students and athletes get attention in a paper that is so focussed on professional sports. What is also so nice is seeing the girls get in the paper before the boys. I sure hope that was a deserving decision and not a political one. Well done, Mr. Grossman and the Toronto Star.

[Hockey Mom]

I think you need to review the the situation and consider players who had a great season regardless of their grade. This might not go over well with people who don't like repeat winners. I believe that if they are that good each year than take them each year. This sends a message to students to do their best every year. I would also like to add my comments about the poor decisions made to stage multiple championships in a sport. I have been following the dialogue and agree that the OFSAA association is making a poor decision to create two girls hockey finals. What's next, maybe four? It has nothing to do with school size which is what they want you to believe. It has lots to do with an outragious financial cushion that the OFSAA office makes by charging schools. Figure it out. Two finals and twice as many teams and we fall for that.

[Roger]

Some very talented young players and it's great to see them get attention. I hope this continues. For the people who don't like these students going to the United States, too bad. It's their choice. Some will understand it was a good move and others will return. I get sick to my stomach with all the National pride that shows up at times like the Olympics and yet why aren't these same people showing up to fill the empty seats throughout the year at arenas.

[Mr. Blake]

Interesting how a girl can play at three schools and be eligible. Another case for the OFSAA rules being a huge joke.