YAHOO

When you first think of the word Yahoo, you generally associate it with a web page or a search engine or some other part of that giant web service company out on the left coast. But, do you know what Yahoo means?

You
Always
Have
Other
Options

That's right, you always have other options. So what, in the context of the MSHL does this mean? First, there is the golden rule - what happens in the MSHL stays in the MSHL. We don't air our dirty laundry in public. Disputes are discussed internally amongst the board and, when appropriate, the membership. However, we don't go around gossiping in rinks about internal issues.

OK, enough of that. Some school has issues with a decision made by MSHL management. Could be anything ranging from a suspension to player placement, to how cold the rink is. You know what happens? Our email box gets flooded with wailing and gnashing of teeth from one or more people claiming (figuratively) that the world is going to end if their problem is not solved right now and to their satisfaction.

And that's the way it is left. They dump their problem on the league's lap and then expect the league to become Solomon and solve the problem. The trouble is, if they don't agree with the solution, the league is wrong and more emails come flooding in.

What's missing is Yahoo. OK, you have an issue. Instead of asking the league to solve it, why not present an alternative that may work for all parties, not just yourself. Be creative. If you think it is too cold for your team, don't go out and buy space heaters and blow the fuses, but maybe offer to buy the ice at an indoor rink at a time convenient to both teams. It may not be the best solution for you, but it may be the best solution for all.

So if you have an issue, don't be a complainer, be part of the solution. Just remember that when the league makes a determination it is making it with the whole league in mind, not just you. Keep that in your mind as you pound out the email to the league.