Affluence plays a big part, but more so in the US, then here. I mean, I'm sure you could do it, Pete, if you really wanted to. It's painful, but it is possible. Just delay retirement a few years, like I'm going to do lol. It is a shame there isn't more ice available for you guys to dumb down the cost. Is there a US player that grew up poor in the past 30 years? Bobby Ryan, I guess, but he was in the OHL at 16.
It's crazy that it's got to this point, but that's the competitive nature of it. At one time, power skating was novel, now, it's mandatory, as basic as oxygen. Understanding our costs, I get frustrated at people that won't help their kids out, but they have homes on the lake, and boats, or snowmobiles, quads, toys, toys, toys. They won't even go to the free power skating session every week. They're lazy, and selfish. It's not a money problem. People paying $500 for 75 hours of ice, then crying "rip off" when there's a $60 tournament fee added on .
As for the Hyman video, I also understood the point. Hymans dad was playing God. Buying entire leagues lol. He was a big part of what is is so gross about the GTHL, I'm sure he got every opportunity with NHL level skills coaches, conditions coaches, etc. But, that's life.