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ray: appropriate credit to those named in his Christmas day post ....
ray: appropriate credit to those named in his Christmas day post .... I was certain I heard sleigh bells outside by window early this morning and just that notion nudged me to thoughts of Christmas wishes to all in Griz Nation.
While I fear I will forget someone, with advance apologies here’s just a quick list of special Grizzly greetings and hopes of continuing or in a few cases immortal success.
For my good friend Don Read, who knows his share of us “good guys,” best wishes that you continue to positively influence the lives of even more young student-athletes whose lives you touch.
Bobby Hauck and all the Hauckie relatives seemingly everywhere: May this be the year when the Rebs turn the corner and set Vegas on its ear, making them forget about hoop and jump aboard like we all know fans do.
Stew Morrill and Mike Montgomery and that long lineage of former Griz coaches who have taken their talents elsewhere but forever left their mark on Missoula, the finest of greetings.
Larry and Jan Krystowiak and family: While you are some 500 miles down the road continued success from those of us who hold the deepest of respect.
Joe and Michelle Glenn: Our doors are always open and I will forever hold your positivity aloft.
Bill Moos: The search for Holien Falls at John Hoyt Acres always will hold a special place in my heart. Pullman is so fortunate to have you back in any capacity.
Wayne Hogan: While you went back down south the imprint you left here never will tarnish.
Don Holst: I can’t get used to not seeing you at the bench but am pleased you continue to influence young lives.
Robin and Marlene Pflugrad: While probably never an adequate explanation, continue to hold your head high remembering bad things sometimes happen to good people and better days remain on the horizon.
Jim and Kathie O’Day: Likewise and always welcome in any of Griz House.
Mick and Sheila Dennehy: My favorite ever interviews for a variety of reasons remembering that the Butte blood runs deep and everlasting.
Mick and Cheri Delaney: It took too long but good things also happen to good people and they just don’t come any better or more loyal.
The current athletic staff and support personnel: I hold your friendship close and dear and recognize the commitment and abiding love you hold for the institution.
Dave Guffey and Dennis Murphy: A three-quarter century on the job and continued commitment to what’s right in collegiate athletics.
J.C Weida: A team couldn’t be in better medical hands.
Doc Rob Curry: My day always is brightened when my path crosses yours.
Naseby Rhinehart: Whose unknowing presence at the foot of the stairs at Dahlberg taught me early what all things lifetime Grizzly is.
Harley Lewis and Barb Holmgren: Who for some reason saw something in me I didn’t know existed and handed me a pulpit.
Steve Hackney and Rob Stack: My barometers who both show how life is about the little things and how you influence those around you.
Gordie Fix: Represents the truest of Griz Nation who never ceases to reach into their wallet to lend support.
The Larson’s: Nothing comes more difficult than carrying on family tradition and through heartbreak you have persevered and like so many others around us have offered athletes their first employment.
Brad Hurd: You had faith so many years ago that journalistically I brought something to the table, and then gave me the utmost of opportunity.
Scott Gurnsey: A place in the Hall of Fame of friendship.
Erwin Byrnes and Bob Beach: It is with the deepest amount of respect I so enjoy seeing you triumph through life’s struggles and remain supportive of the program, serving as the finest example for us all.
Greg Sundberg: Never without a smile or a good word who someday also will have his radio microphone activated. On second thought.
Tia: Who brightens my basketball days with her smile and though she has no idea keeps me from being totally panicked prior to a hoop game.
Kent Haslam: For accelerated solid triumphs with few accompanying disappointments during one of the most difficult and challenging of scenarios.
Griz fans and sponsors: No matter the critics, this institution and its employees do it the way you would want it to be done and we should go more out of our way to make them realize how much we appreciate their representation and commitment.
Brad Salonen: There from the start and still one of my dearest friends. Those were and are the days.
Wayne Tinkle: By subtly putting naysayers aside with the deepest commitment to class, you and your family continue to be my inspiration.
Robin Selvig: Like it or not “Bo” you represent all that is tops in Griz Nation and your commitment to success and maturation is held in the highest of esteem. It’s an honor to call you a true friend.
Former and current players and coaches: Don’t underestimate the groundwork and opportunity you were given and continue to carry those standards high. Wear whatever Griz color suits your fancy but carry the banner of the University of Montana high and far. It’s on you!!
The merriest of Christmas everyone.
