When Wiarton Willie scampered out of his den on Tuesday, the long shadow he cast led to the declaration that this winter is far from over.  If you believe in this type of rodent meteorology, it means we best keep the boot mat next to the front door and shovels perched outside it.

But when you consider the amount of excitement in Stratford so far this season, we don’t have much to complain about. In a city that is traditionally bustling with tourists and activities during the spring, summer and fall months, it seems that this year even our often unpleasant winter climate hasn’t been able to keep people away.

At no time was that more true than over the last week, when thousands came out to take in the action and activities surrounding Hockey Day in Canada – which, through the hard work of community volunteers and a dedicated organizing committee – was transformed into Hockey Week in Stratford. What’s more, millions of people tuned into the CBC special on Saturday, putting Stratford in the spotlight and showcasing the city’s rich hockey traditions and homegrown talent. Mayor Dan Mathieson and Tim Taylor should be applauded for their work not only in bringing Hockey Day to Stratford, but bringing the community together.

The theme for Hockey Day was “team,” and as Mayor Mathieson noted, a big part of the events was reinforcing with kids important life skills such as understanding and responsible choices, both on and off the ice.

At the luncheon last Tuesday, former NHLer Mark Napier, who played during the ’80s, fielded questions about the apparent disregard pro players have today for their opponent, particularly with regards to shots to the head. Napier said such hits didn’t happen when he played because players then had respect for the opposing side.

The topic has been back in the headlines recently (as  seems to happen every so often), after the incident in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, which led to the season-long suspension of one of its players.

Physical contact is, and will always be, a big part of our great game – and leagues will continue to walk a fine line between cracking down on dirty hits and encouraging tough, physical play, and the occasional fight.

At one school visit during Hockey Day, Stratford native and NHL linesman Steve Miller acknowledged to students he often lets players fight if they are willing participants, because after all, many players are hired to play rough. Even Cullitons coach Phil Westman said Saturday’s Jr. B game gave fans what they want to see – some scoring and some fighting.

It’s the responsibility of coaches to teach their players to have respect for their fellow athletes, even when  they’re laying a big hit or getting into a scuffle. It sounds silly, at least to us, but it’s an important message, and one that hopefully hit home with many youngsters throughout Hockey Day.

Now if only we could get the big boys to play nice.

– Gazette staff