If the ratings for U.S. television viewing were down for the Stanley Cup finals, some fans will say that it’s because their favorite team was not in it.

These are not real hockey fans, but team fans. A true hockey fan, who appreciates the speed, skill, physical contact and dedication would still watch. And they would have seen a great series between two teams that were a mirror image of each other in the grit and intensity they displayed in this great series final.

I am glad that Tampa Bay won, even though they are not my favorite team. And, I would not have been too disappointed either if Calgary had won because in a great seven-game series such as we have seen, you have to be happy for whoever wins.

Let us hope we have an NHL season next year so we can once again see and appreciate the great game of hockey.

Rene Desrochers, Auburn