Escaping hard times

When growing up playing hockey - or any sport - you are always told it is just a game and there are more important things in life.

While this is true there is no denying that a game can sometimes be a good distraction in tough times. Nowhere was this more evident than in Buffalo Feb. 13th when the Sabres hosted the Sharks.

Not only was the city feeling the pressure of a poor economy, they now had to deal with a tragic plane crash that occurred the night before.

That night I was proud to be in HSBC Arena to witness 18,000 fans and both teams pay their respects to the victims and their families.

Both teams put on a great game and for a while everyone's mind was taken off the troubles of the world.

Jamie McCrea, Penetanguishene, Ontario