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Posted by Daniel Alfredsson on November 9, 2007 Fans might ask what a team captain, such as myself, might feel the need to say or do after a game like Thursday’s loss to Washington, which ended our eight-game winning streak. My responsibility, as captain - all three of us - is to make sure we're ready every night. It's not going to work every time, but that's part of our responsibility. Sometimes it's not going to go your way. But I don't think, because you don't win, that you start screaming and yelling 'we should be better, we should do this.' Sometimes it's a very small margin between winning and losing. I think as long as you feel that we didn't do anything real dumb to lose the game, you've just got to move on and try to win the next one. That's probably where I come from. The players on this team make it easy for me to be their captain. We've had a core of guys that have been here for a while, and they all understand the responsibilities we all have. Sometimes, it's not just me, it's everybody that knows we're not doing as well as we should, and we help each other out. That's what being a team is all about, helping each other out when you go through tough times and reminding each other when you're doing well, why it is that you're doing well. To me, being the Senators captain gives me that responsibility to help the others, maybe to remind others they can do more. Maybe sometimes they're trying too hard. I think it's at those times that I can offer the most help. Talk to guys, help them out and push guys. I like the challenge that comes with it. I think I come to the rink every day prepared for practice. I want to be an example out there and show the young guys that it takes a lot of hard work to be a top team in this league. It doesn't come easily. It’s hard to say much about other captains around the league, because you don’t really know what goes on behind locked doors. You know how certain captains play, but you don’t know how they handle themselves off the ice or how they handle the guys in the room. When I was younger, I played with Randy Cunneyworth, who was our captain at the time. He was a veteran guy and I learned a lot from him. And then you learn as you go through from other experiences yourself. Obviously, I’m much more experienced now than I was six or seven years ago. |
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Hi Alfie. Eight games in a row is pretty remarkable! I liked reading your comments about what you do as captain to help the team. We fans can see what happens in the ice, but we don't get to see what goes on off the ice, so it's nice to hear about it from you.
I think your maturity as a Captain has shown over the last two years. Your play in the Cup Finals this summer showed to the entire league once and for all that you were a leader for your team in MUCH more than goals. I was very impressed by your efforts, and I definitely think you can be the first European Captain to lead their team to the Cup! The fact that the rest of the team was/is great doesn't hurt! But you set the bar for the team's effort and determination in my opinion (along with Mike maybe). That spirit seems to be carrying over to this regular season.
Finally, I want to congratulate those Sens who have restored some of my faith in pro sports. Money shouldn't be the main goal, so it's very nice to see Heatley, Spezza, and Redden (maybe) recently sacrificing some money in order to play for a team they love and to win The Cup. You're also not grumbling or complaining about your salary deal despite leading the team (and almost the league!) in goals. That's why we fans are in it- to cheer a familiar team to win the Big One. Not to brag about how much our players make! It's very comforting to know that the Sens won't be the revolving door of players that Toronto or Montreal have been.
Keep up the great work, the great scoring, and the great leadership! Most of all, keep making it easy for me to be a Sens and an Alfie fan in the middle of the Leaf nation!
p.s.- I'd love to hear more about how, as the longest serving Senator, you've seen things change over the years
Posted by: Tony V | November 09, 2007 at 04:09 PM
You're doing a wonderful job as captain, and I think it definitely shows! Good luck against the Habs on Saturday.
Posted by: S | November 09, 2007 at 05:17 PM
Our Captain!
What a great perspective.
I am so impressed with the Senators attitude and drive. You may not be able to win them all but at the end of the day you know the Senators have that special something needed to take it all the way to Stanley.
Keep up the great work Captain!
Posted by: Jenn | November 09, 2007 at 07:25 PM
Hi Alfie,
My name is Morgan. I am 8 years old. I play goalie for my team the South Grenville Rangers. You are my favorite player. I think you are a great player. You are the best on the team. I love the Sens. My bedroom is a sens room. On weekends I am allowed to stay up and watch the games. Go Sens Go!
Posted by: Morgan D'Ambrose | November 09, 2007 at 07:39 PM
Our Mighty Captain!
Wow!! What a start!! You guys are all doing a terrific job, keep up the good work.
I really enjoyed reading this blog. It's nice to hear your view on things, and how you help keep the team grounded when you are all doing so well and it's easy to forget what got you there. It's a big responsibility being Captain of a team and you are handling it with flying colours. You not only lead this team in the dressing room, but you lead this team on the ice with such a strong work ethic. I will say, I have noticed that when you play at the top of your game, every player on the ice plays at the top of theirs. That shows how much they respect and look up to you.
Well so do we, the fans. You are an inspiration to all of us. I believe as well, that you WILL be the first European Captain to hoist the Stanley Cup and I believe you will do it this year. I have always been and will be one of your biggest fans from the day you came to the Senators until the day you leave. (Which hopefully isn't until you're 90. HAHA)
Posted by: Kathie | November 10, 2007 at 12:28 AM
I think that you're doing a great job as captain. You have remarkable qualities that are important in a captain who is seeking to help their team succeed. You have a great point of view because you understand the point of moving on after a loss, not standing there and spending too much time reflecting on what went wrong. Hope to see you make it into the Stanley Cup, and with the caliber of which you and the team play at, I'm thinking you're going to bring home the trophy.
Posted by: Lubek | November 10, 2007 at 12:42 AM
You guys are playing amazing and unfortunately you aren't going to win them all, even though we the fans would love that. I honestly think the loss to Washington could have gone the other way if not for a few posts and not converting on that opening chance. The thing I love about you and the Senators, is the way you've developed into a never say die team. Years ago; once down going into the third, the media would stick a fork in us...not so the case anymore. Sometimes a loss takes with it a learning experience, that's why I believe it's almost good to lose every once in awhile.
On another note, the media also used to unfairly criticize you as a captain for not being a yeller. People even went as far to say you couldn't motivate? Obviously, the Senators organization and your teammates think differently. I take great solice in cheering for the Ottawa Senators and am proud to say who are our leader and captain. What else can you say about a future HOF'er.
Lastly, I can't wait to watch the game today.
Note: Has Coach Paddock ever thought about trying Joe Corvo as a forward? Might be something to think about.
Cheers! GO! SENS GO!
Posted by: Jamie Van Dusen | November 10, 2007 at 11:57 AM
Hi Alfie, Thanks for giving the multitudes of your fans the opportunity to say Thank you for everything you've done for us.
You could turn anyone into a fan!! All the best to you, your family and your fabulous teamates. And beat the h-e-l-l out of Les Habs for us.
From one of the multitudes
Posted by: Ester | November 10, 2007 at 12:57 PM
Dear Captain,
It was really great of you to take the time to write to us out here and let us know how you're leading the team and what the Senators plan to do regarding game strategy and mindset. I really enjoy watching all of you play, and the energy you and the rest of the team put into the game is very evident. There are always going to be those days when things don't turn out the way we'd like them to, but I know that the Sens always work hard to make those few and far between. Like the last fellow said, eight games straight is quite an accomplishment, and with your enthusiasm and skill, the games and winning streaks are only going to get better. The rush we get from watching you guys slam one into the net is almost indescribable! Just keep doing your thing, and we'll keep watching and cheering. Thanks to you and the team for your efforts!
Posted by: Anthony Thomas | November 10, 2007 at 02:22 PM
First off I have noticed how well the team has improved with you as their captain.
The team has gotten further and further each year. In addition Alfredsson, you yourself have improved greatly these past years in all aspects of your game. You lead by example each game in both effort and talent, and it was quite fitting that you got the series winning goal in Buffalo last year. I was so proud that the team made it to the finals. I also knew that the team would come back with the same determination this year. It’s no secret why. It’s heart. The team has heart. More than I’ve seen in any other.
Not all of the players on the team are Canadian, but I can assure you that the majority of us know, whether we are a Senators fan or not, that your team represents the nations love for the game and its heart better than any other. We are proud to call the Ottawa Senators a True Canadian Hockey Team.
The last few games without Spezza, Mike Fisher stepped up and played excellent with you and Heatley. This came of no surprise to me because you and Fisher had been on the same line many times before and Fisher is an excellent player.
Obviously you, Heatley and Spezza are a very powerful offensive and it’s never bright to go against what works. But because you have worked with Fisher before the two of you still are a potent offense. If I ever got the chance to talk to your coach and I could only say ONE thing, it would be that I sincerely hope that John Paddock has recognized the opportunity this presents.
If this year, in the playoffs, the Senators play a strong defensive team who will look to place its main focus on stopping the line of You, Spezza, Heatley, that your team has another option. If you play a team like that and they succeed in a game or two to prevent that line from being effective, it might be an excellent idea for you guys to divide and conquer. I hope he considers the possibility that having Heatley and Spezza on one line, while you and Fisher on the other, may very well be more than that defensive team can handle and shut down. And that might be the way to win.
It’s been an honor to be able to write something you might read Alfredsson.
I just hope it gets posted so you have the chance to read it.
Keep up the good work. I’ll keep watching and cheering. As i write this you just tied the game in montreal. Thats how its done.
If I ever got the chance to meet you Alfie,
I wouldn’t be asking for an autograph. I’d just want to shake your hand.
GO SENS GO!
Posted by: Michael Figueiredo | November 10, 2007 at 05:57 PM
OK Alfie, wow. Way to back up your words with actions! Two goals AND Neil credits you with giving the inspirational talk after the end of the 2nd. Wow. The whole team contributed, but once again, you've proven you're THE leader.
Posted by: Tony Volk | November 10, 2007 at 07:49 PM
Hey Alfie - Congratulations on the sensational start - the team's record and your play has been amazing! Keep up the great work! ALFIE, ALFIE, ALFIE!!!
Posted by: Hannah L | November 10, 2007 at 09:43 PM
Alfie-
you are the definition of 'leading by example'. Your work ethic is reaching almost legendary proportions. I've been a fan since my dad and grandpa bought seasons tickets the first year the club was back in the league (which they still have) and i have to say, it's been a pleasure to watch you mature as a player. It's nice to see you playing with players who share your dedication and passion. You all seem to gel so well and genuinely get along, it warms my heart and shows how much better a team is when they CARE about each other.
You, Mr. Alfredsson, are a class act, and I'm so proud of the fact that you've chosen to stick with Ottawa over the years.
You are not only the captain of the hockey team, but you are the captain to the entire sens army. We love you Alfie!! Your the bedrock that this team was founded on. Keep on doing what your doing!!
Much Love,
-Jessica Leigh
Posted by: Jessica Leigh | November 11, 2007 at 01:43 AM
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us Alfie. You really have been showing your leadership on the ice and we're really proud to have you as our Captain. I'm glad Chris Neil gave everyone a hint of what you do in the locker room, and reinforce to everyone that you are a Great Captain in every sense of the word.
Posted by: Victoria L | November 11, 2007 at 01:47 PM
Hey Alfie. Great comments from a great leader - on and off the ice.
That leadership was especially evident in Saturday's game against Montreal. I was at the game, and it's great watching you guys in action. Nice goal!
Cheers.
Posted by: Marc | November 11, 2007 at 09:19 PM
I just want to start out by saying thanks for the 2 goals against those habs!!! you played a great game along with your boys. im glad u take part in these blogs because its great to hear from a true hockey player. i agree with your comment about screaming and yelling when your team is down. keep up the great work captain. Go Sens Go!
Posted by: James Burlak | November 12, 2007 at 02:53 AM
What a way to start the season. Starting to break records already. 8 games, amazing!!Sometimes a lose is a good thing to help you get back on track, see where there could be improvement, and keep you humble, without taking away the confidence. The game on Sat. against the habs was one heck of a game!!I watched it from home, and I could feel the energy. You guys could not disappoint this fan with the heart you all play with.I am so proud of you guys for the run you gave us last year, and what a run it was. No regrets.
I will agree with the person who posted before me, how some faith has been restored. I agree with what Tony said about money and contracts.
We don't know what goes on behind closed doors, but whatever it is, must be working. It's nice to hear that behind the doors, it remains a team. You said in your previous blog, about Leaf fans boo'ing you. I think that might just be a dying trend. Leaf Nation hasn't been showing up like before, and it's only because they know your a great player. I hope everyone stays safe out there. Look forward to your next post.
Posted by: lvmysens | November 12, 2007 at 11:37 AM
Hey Alfie,
I just want to say great start to the season and I now keep up with the Sens mostly on the internet. I did subscribe to NHL center ice to be able to watch some games. I now live in Vancouver and don’t get to see games unless it’s one Center ice. I lived in Ottawa when the Sens where born again and have been a fan from day one. I even converted my brother (he was a big Leaf Fan). Anyway….. wish you guys where playing in Vancouver this year but looks like that can only happen in the final…… and I don’t think the Canucks have what it takes to join you guys from this side. I like the fact that all players are under contract for the next few year….. looks like we could have the first dynasty team since the Oilers…. From Vancouver GO SENS GO!!!!!!!!!!
Jean
Posted by: Jean Gilbert | November 12, 2007 at 02:13 PM
Captain Alphredsson,
I am a huge Sens fan living in downtown Toronto and I almost never gets to see your games. But I always know, without a shadow of a doubt, that you are, were and always will be the best captain on the Senators =) Every game you bring the intensity and leadership that is expected of a first rank player and its a singular joy to see that big letter "C" on your shoulder every game. Watching the highlites has become my morning ritual and its never a surprise to see you scoring the goal or making the play that pushes the team to the top (2 goals in last 5mins vs. Montreal? No one but Alfie could pull that off!) I have 3 jerseys - Spezza's in red, Heatley's in black and yours in white. I rotate depending on who/when you play but I always know you'll be there leading the way - its even amazing the support I get when I wear the jerseys right in the heart of Toronto, esp. yours! Your fans love you, your team-mates look up to you and the world respects you (people in Toronto don't count because they're too busy thinking they live in the center of the universe =p) "C" may stand for captain, but no other can pull off "Cool", "Calm" and "Champion" like you. Long live our Captain Alfredsson! And long live the Ottawa Senators!!
ps - could you tell some of the other players that the fans would LOVE it if they started blogging too!!
Posted by: Erin | November 12, 2007 at 03:09 PM
I would just like to comment on your incredible play;not just now but over the years as well.I'm not sure anyone is playing better two way responsible hockey in all of the world.You,my friend,the way you control hockey games day in and day out is simply unbelievable.The calm and coolness displayed by yourself might fly under the radar for the average fan(those looking at totals and such stats),however even my Leaf buddies can no longer ignore your prowess for puck possesion.When something isn't there you circle back;sometimes twice or even a third time;patiently waiting for an opening.There is not a single NHL'er who cannot learn something by watching the way you play.As a 38 year old who still plays alot of sports,it is an absolute treat to watch you play nightly(just got the sports pack living in toronto).Funny how your not one of the top paid players in the game today!
Take care Alfie and good luck chasing down that elusive little man known as Stanley!!!!!
Posted by: Rod Berg | November 12, 2007 at 03:19 PM
You rule Alfie, Your steady leadership is one of the factors that makes the team so strong. It's great to see that a pro sports team can truly buy into the concept that the whole thing together is bigger than any one individual, its shown in the awesome start this year.
I moved to BC right before the season started, So I am sad that I barely get to see the Sens play..but I still follow closely. Keep up the good stuff, I'll be back in town for the playoffs.
Posted by: Adam D | November 13, 2007 at 06:06 AM
I just wanted to let you know that I think you are one of the best players in the NHL.
Posted by: Chris | November 14, 2007 at 01:27 PM
O Captain, my Captain!
Alfie, you epitomize the saying "lead by example." and the Sens have the best core players and great drive and heart with a grit and thirst for more.
What can I say other than way to go boys! There isn't a day that goes by since I relocated from Ottawa to the Maritimes that I don't miss that hometown feel and the sea of RED! You'll be awarded the President's cup this year and I hope I can swing on down to the ol' stompin' grounds for the chance to let me son see the boys in red on HOME ICE!!
GO SENS GO!!!
Posted by: Geoff | November 15, 2007 at 11:13 AM
CONGRATS ALFIE!! on your 800th game Chris you too on your 400th!!! wow guys...you had me sitting on the edge of my seat last night...another sold out nail biting, riviting game!!! you guys ROCK! GO SENS GO!!
i agree with Erin...would love to see the other players blog!! :)
Posted by: DC | November 16, 2007 at 08:17 AM
Alfie you are the best captain ever. I dont know what we would do without you. GO SENS GO!!! 07-08 CHAMPS
Posted by: Kelly | November 19, 2007 at 01:27 PM