Votes on You

Even before there was hockeyfights.com, and I was just writing back and forth with other hockey fans, I’ve received emails about starting an All-Star campaign.  Everyone wanted to rock the write-in vote and get a tough guy, or any popular non-scoring, blue collar player into the All-Star game.  Ever since Bob Probert appeared in the 1987-88 All-Star game many fans have been waiting for the next appearance of a tough guy in the famed exhibition game.  Of course, in 1987-88, Probert also had 62 points.

While few have put up points like Probert did that season, it hasn’t been unheard of.  Chris Simon had 29 goals in 1999-00, Chris Neil has averaged 30 points the past two seasons, and Ian Laperriere put up 45 points just two seasons ago.  In what many still call the dead puck era, those aren’t bad numbers from players whose roles often included dropping the gloves.

While I’ve received a lot of email over the years about a write-in campaign, never before did one take off like last season’s Vote for Rory campaign.  It was proof fans could make some waves, thanks to the internet, even if Rory Fitzpatrick didn’t make the All-Star team.

I started getting emails early on this year, many looking to duplicate the Vote for Rory result.  After the oh-so-close numbers, I figure there will be many copycats out there, and I’ve been hesitant to do anything like it myself.  I highly doubt anyone will generate the same buzz Vote for Rory did, especially with the competition that will be out there.

However – the emails are starting to pour in.  The choice hasn’t been unanimous, but Derek Boogaard has had the most mentions so far.  George Parros was another top choices, while one person “blamed” me for his popularity.  Sorry, I haven’t asked anyone to grow a moustache, long hair and fight.  Other repeated names that came up were Wade Belak, Donald Brashear, Eric Godard and Georges Laraque.

So what to do?  Ignore it all?  Start one?  Back one?  Who’s your write-in All-Star?