An open letter to hockey fans

Dear Hockey Friends,

If there's a youth, junior or minor league hockey team in your area, please give them your support. It's great to see young people working hard to not just win for their team, but building toward a future in the sport. They're enthusiastic, passionate and will eagerly welcome you to their venue.

On the other hand, it's pretty safe to say that the NHL DOES NOT CARE for its fans. So why not give your support to youngsters who have not yet been jaded by things like "collective bargaining agreements?"

Here in the greater Seattle area alone, we're blessed with two WHL teams, one NAHL team, one NORPAC team, and a number of youth hockey leagues from Bellingham to Vancouver (with many more throughout WA state and into Oregon and up in British Columbia!)

Go cheer on the stars of tomorrow, since the stars of today seem to be stuck on the bench.

(Photo: Mick White)

Fun WHL fans to tweet with during the season!

Just wrapped up a story for the KING 5 website spotlighting Twitter handles of all the WHL teams and some of the more high-profile writers/bloggers for each team. You can check out that list by clicking here.

I love following teams and "official" writers as much as anyone, but during hockey season, I find I have the most fun chatting with other fans on Twitter. Most of my online WHL friends are within the US Division, although each and every one will give you a run for your money when talking about pretty much anything hockey related.

If you're looking for smart, witty and passionate hockey fans to connect with this winter, start following these people (and let me know who else I should follow for fun WHL chatter!)

Everett Silvertips fans:
@thenwchica (Amy is passionate about the 'Tips, Canucks, Pens and Ducks)
@walkbyfaith1970 (Christine will chat hockey + more with you)
@kirabby44 (Jodie wants more cowbells!)
@rmarcham (Ray will talk 'Tips & other teams. He knows WHL history like the back of his hand. And if you're an Edmonton Oilers fan, you're all right in his book)
@StephNewsNow (She's a news anchor in Boise, but the 'Tips are #1 in her heart)

Seattle Thunderbirds fans:
@naultybits (Sheena moved away from the Seattle area, but her T-Birds passion burns strong)
@RealmofHelm (Tom is also the AWESOME music/PA guy at @ShoWareCenter)
@iankorzeniecki (Ian is a realistic fan - he'll tweet the bad along with the good) 
@lorilinnm (Lori is awesome! A mom and a passionate hockey fan!)

Portland Winterhawks fans:
@TerranceNorman (Terrance is a passionate hockey & Winterhawks fan. You can also talk Iron Maiden with him anytime!)
@KNorman_ (Terrance's better half - awesome friend and Winterhawks fan)

Tri City Americans fans:
@imeanwegotguys (She pulls no punches and is extremely witty to boot)

Spokane Chiefs fans:
@Rhaen_ (I got to take in a 'Tips/Chiefs game once with Rhaen. Cool chick. Great hockey mind)
@AgateShadow (Susie will talk hockey and you will like it!)
@wraparoundcurl (I want to be her when I grow up. Seriously, great with hockey - and just about anything else under the sun)