Dear #7,

First and foremost, I want you to know that the jersey you’ll be slipping on in the next month has been through a lot and when you put it on for your first game, I want you to wear it with pride. As much pride as I had wearing it, if not, more.

That jersey you're wearing has seen blood, a lot of sweat, and tears. It has seen victories and failures, two different head coaches, and four different assistant coaches. It has seen a lot and it’ll continue to see more. The first time you pull it over your head, you will get nervous. I remember the first time I put it on and how nervous I felt. It’s been my favorite piece of fabric for the last 4 years, but now it’s yours.

No, it may not be the most perfect jersey every. I will be VERY big on you as it was for me. It will probably still smell, but that's only the half of it. That jersey has taken me on a ride that I’ll never forget and the name on the front of it has never made me more proud. It may not of been a part of a team that won a lot, but it was part of a team with hard work and passion and at the end of that day, that’s all that really matters.

That jersey came with a lot of responsibilities and expectations. That was a jersey that many looked to for leadership and guidance so don’t let me down by making it anything less than what it is meant to be.

When I come back to watch a game during your season, you will be the first person I notice on the ice. Whether you’re the superstar or not, I will pick you out of a crowd. All I ask of you is that no matter what, through the wins and losses, the blood, sweat and tears, never lose your heart and your pride for the name on the front of that jersey. Despite what anyone says to you. That number on the back of that jersey was more than just a uniform. It was a clothing that made me into who I am today. So please take good care of it. I’ll be seeing you, good luck and never lose your passion for the game.

Sincerely,

The former #7