Al Sobotka

To:  Gary Bettman and the NHL

Dear NHL and Gary Bettman,

In a recent segment of Red Wings Live, we, as Red Wing fans, were very discouraged to learn of your threats to fine the Red Wings ice manager Al Sobotka.

The fine is to be levied for "inciting the fans" by swinging the octopii as he removes them from the playing surface.

As you know, this Detroit playoff tradition goes back many years. Why, suddenly, in 2008, is it a problem?

As for "inciting the fans", is it not the home team's fans job to cheer and celebrate for their team? How does the actions of one man become detrimental to the game? It doesn't.

As the league branches out to new fans and new markets, please refrain from silencing the long held traditions of older teams and markets.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned

The Al Sobotka Petition to Gary Bettman and the NHL was created by and written by Rick Kiphut (firecapt@gmail.com).  This petition is hosted here at www.PetitionOnline.com as a public service. There is no endorsement of this petition, express or implied, by Artifice, Inc. or our sponsors. For technical support please use our simple Petition Help form.