A Letter from Mo
Published on October 30, 2018 under Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL)
Danville Dashers News Release
A few years back... More then I care to admit. I made a phone call to Steve Harrison. I asked him for an opportunity to play for Danville. He replied to me with a question. "Well, are you in good shape?". To me he sounded serious with a stern voice. Little did I know that he would end up being the most genuine, kind, consistent and reliable coach I would ever play for. A leader, mentor and positive influence to us all and a massive part in my hockey career. Knowing "Coach" now, I would imagine that when we talked that day, he was leaning back in his chair wearing flip flops, socks, wielding around a putter and probably gave his mustache a good stroke before he asked me that question. Coach's philosophy was to bring in "good people" rather then "good players".
That was a huge reason why I played in Danville for the years that I did. We had a group of guys that were brothers, comrades, friends, family. Coach knew that was the recipe for success and once we bought into what he preached we reached our goal. I am grateful for Coach, my teammates and the fans for allowing me to be a part of that championship year. It's something I will always remember. We had a goal and we achieved that goal. With that i mind, I felt like everything I played for personally and as a team we accomplished.
I'm leaving comfort for challenge and I hope you understand. I have more goals to reach, more hockey to play, more adventures to embark on. I enjoyed my time in Danville and had a ton of fun being a Dasher. There are hundreds of people to thank but a few that I would like to thank independently.
Thank you to Virginia Pruitt, Not only has she selflessly contributed to the dashers organization, she has also gone out of her way to help me grow outside of the game of hockey. Without her support I wouldn't be where I am today.
Dani Hanson has been one of, if not the nicest human I've met during my 9 years of professional hockey. Dani and her family have devoted their time for both me and my teammates for nothing in return. She is a corner stone of my support system and a friend for life. I truly believe without Dani's consistent devotion to the team we wouldn't have been as successful.
Kent King has been a great friend over the years. He has made my transition periods between each season a whole lot easier. He has generously gave me opportunities to learn and grow and is a large reason why I have been able to meet so many good people along the way.
Hugh Hill. A wealth of knowledgeable, patient and generous. I was lucky enough to spend an entire summer with Hugh. Day after day I learned something new. Hugh taught me the values of hard work. The wisdom Hugh passed on to me is something I will take with me for the rest of my life. I appreciate what the Hill family did for me.
Mary Ellen, Not only has she allowed me to use the ice at the David S. Palmer countless times. But, she also gave me the opportunity to work with the kids. It's something I enjoy and without her it wouldn't have been possible. For that I thank you.
Irfan and Navid Sadiq, The Sadiq family welcomed me into their homes with open arms. They treated me like family and gave me the tools to train this summer. Without them I would not have been able to continue progressing my hockey career.
Tim Juris, my roommate, teammate, billet, buddy, brother, weird uncle, Timmy's one of the best friends I have and someone who has pushed me to be the best I can be in all facets of life. He's someone I look up to and strive to be like. He's taught me more then I could even start to list. Timmy's belief in me has helped me believe in myself.
Lastly, Henner, he's a big reason why I continue to play. I know that he will always have my back. He is a great person and leader for the Dashers. I wish him and the team the best of luck this season.
Thank you to Barry Soskin, Diane & Coach Harrison. Coach Has done so much for me, the Dashers and the city of Danville. He gave us a home, family and an opportunity to be champions every year.
To the fans, You are why we get to play the game we love. Without you there is nothing.
For that, on behalf of all of us players.
Thank you
-Mo
Federal Prospects Hockey League Stories from October 30, 2018
- Carolina Thunderbirds Weekly Update - Twin City Thunderbirds
- A Letter from Mo - Danville Dashers
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
