Health Concern

There is a lot of controversy swirling around about the H1N1 flu and the efforts to combat it. Putting all of the political controversy aside, there is an aspect of the outbreak that is having an impact on the hockey world.

Paul Daley was hit by the virus a few weeks ago. Judging by his game winning goal on Saturday night, Paul seems to be no worse for wear.

Colorado Avalanche goalie Peter Budaj has just been diagnosed with H1N1. According to the Denver Post's Terry Frei, Avs head coach Joe Sacco said Tuesday, "We've taken the necessary steps, the necessary precautions, to keep him away from the guys at the right time." Sacco added, "Hopefully, he'll be joining us on this trip."

UPDATE: AP is now reporting Washington Capitals forward Quentin Laing and Edmonton Oilers forward Ladislav Smid also have contracted the H1N1 virus.

All kidding about Paul Daley aside, a shocking story from Toronto really drives home how dangerous H1N1 can be.

As Toronto Sun columnist Mike Strobel put it this morning:

Suddenly, swine flu has a face.
A sweet, all-Canadian, little-boy face.
Evan Frustaglio's face.

Evan died on Monday after coming down with flu symptoms while at a hockey tournament over the past weekend.

Click on his picture to watch the Sun Media video interview with his dad, Paul Frustaglio. Mr. Frustaglio is every hockey parent - you, me, Canadian, American, it doesn't matter. No parent should suffer a tragedy as the Frustaglio family. Watch that video and tell me you didn't tear up.

Pandemic or not, H1N1 will continue to impact our game. The Sun reports that minor hockey officials in Canada are considering safety measures:

Warnings from Hockey Canada were circulating among several teams yesterday, including suggestions that parents keep from the rink any child showing signs of the virus.

Teams are also warned against providing sport-drink bottles, where direct lip contact is more likely than traditional water bottles, and towels on team benches.

Some leagues have also ditched the traditional post-game handshake.

As Mr. Frustaglio said to reporters, "If you guys were talking to me about something else, if there was a train derailment in my backyard, he'd be standing there shooting pucks right now. He loved the game so, so much."

Our deepest condolences to the Frustaglio family. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.