Tartan Thank Woodbury Player’s Dad for Military Service

Dear Tom Slaird: I noticed that you have a coaches appreciation dinner planned in the near future. My son played for the Woodbury 16U team this last season. I would like for you to send out a special thanks to the Tartan 16U coaching staff for all that they have done this season for the youth who play at this level.

Recently, we had the opportunity to play Tartan in the Section Playoffs. I drove 97 miles from military duty in order to see the game. Because of the lack of time to change, I was still in uniform. Prior to the drop of the puck, the entire Tartan team lined up at center ice and did a stick salute from the stands. I initially thought that they were saluting their parents and fans for all of the support they showed during the season. After the game, I was waiting in the lobby of the arena for my son. The Tartan players one by one stopped by to thank me for my service to the country.

The Tartan coaching staff also stopped to shake my hand and thank me. I was then made aware of the fact that the boys came up with the idea to do a stick salute to me as I was sitting in the stands, in uniform to view the game. This is the direct reflection of a strong coaching staff that stresses fair play, discipline and respect. I am extremely impressed with the coaching staff there and if we were not playing at Woodbury, this would be the coaching staff that I would want my son to play under.

Please take a moment of your time to recognize the Tartan 16U coaching staff, and let them know that what they do for their team and the boys’ total development is extremely appreciated.

Sincerely, Mr. Neil Bruestle

Editor’s Note: Thank you to Neil Bruestle for sharing this experience with us. And a special thank you to the Tartan 16U coaching staff! Tom Slaird, chairman of the Metro League, received this letter via email.