The Hockey Maven, Stan Fischler, turns 92 years old! Words can't describe what he's meant to me and my career.
The Maven, Stan Fischler, turns 92 years old today.
He's a legend. He's a father. He's a grandfather. He's a colleague.
But he's also a dear friend.
Let me tell you a story about my friend Stan.
A little over a year ago, I saw that Stan was coming back to The Hockey News to start covering the New York Islanders again for their team-specific site.
I was looking for a new opportunity and got in touch with Stan via email to see if there was any way I could help him with this venture, given that I lived on Long Island and Stan was almost 6,000 miles away in Israel.
He responded immediately, saying, "Let's talk."
So we talked, and jokes were shared in true Maven form before we even discussed a potential opportunity. After the laughs quieted down, Maven gave me the opportunity to be "the beat guy" for the site.
It's a moment that's changed my life.
Words can't describe the support Stan has shown me over this last year, sharing encouragement, insights, history, and above all else, the importance of having fun, too.
After exchanging emails and talking on Zoom for a few months, I had the privilege to finally meet Stan at his New York State Hockey Hall of Fame Induction last summer in upstate New York:
I went to give him a handshake, and instead, he put out his arms and gave me the biggest hug before whispering a joke in my ear.
That's Stan Fischler.
I'll never forget that first email with Stan because it was the stepping stone that allowed me this opportunity. I was able to continue to live out my dream because Stan took a chance on me, and I will be forever grateful.
So, Stan?
Are you 1? Are you 2? Are you...we'll be here all day.
Happy birthday, pal!