Hi everyone! As an educator of twenty years experience, I have taught people of all ages in two different countries. I’ve prided myself on imparting a little wisdom on those I have taught. And so today I want to share something with all of you. First, “renege” is a really hard word to spell. Seriously, when you hear someone say “renege”, is that how you picture the word is spelled? Oh, and don’t renege on a deal, folks. That’s really important to remember, as the entire California Golden Seals franchise found out in the early weeks of 1972-73. As you may or may not know, Dick Redmond signed a rich new deal with general manager Garry Young during that tumultuous summer of ’72 when players were jumping ship right, left, and center, and the entire ocean surrounding said ship was filled with World Hockey Association-manned boats carrying life-preservers. Anyway, when Finley found out what Redmond was making, the Seals owner immediately said “Nuh-uh” and started paying Redmond at a discount. You may be shocked to find out that Redmond was not thrilled about seeing half his money just go up in smoke. Before long, Young was fired, Redmond was sent to Chicago, and the Seals had lost their best defenseman. You can read all about it in this week’s article from the San Francisco Examiner.

As a added bonus this week, a funny, short Seals reference in this piece about a Somerset, Massachusetts coach named Bob Souza, who passed away recently after a long illness. Many players on the California Golden Seals were not big fans of Charlie Finley’s infamous white skates, and apparently neither was Bob Souza. Thanks to Pete Manzolillo for sending this article my way!

Until next time, stay gold!