This is just one cool story from my childhood and continued through my adult days. The photo you see is of Tom Polanic, myself and Ken Broderick. Tom was a long time friend of my Father, Stan Bargman. He and Tom played handball at the downtown YMCA for years as this is how Tom Kept in shape during the off season. They attended the Grey Cup games every year at that same YMCA. I met Tom when I was maybe 7 years old and he knew I was a big Boston Bruins fan. One afternoon, my dad took me as often did, to his handball club near the Airport. This time there was a big surprise waiting there for me. Tom had asked his good friend Ken Broderick to join him at the club and meet me that day. Tom who happens to have been one of the nicest guys around, Introduced me the Bruins net minder... I was so excited and was over to moon to meet an NHL player from my beloved Bruins. Ken shook my hand and then took from behind his back, a Bruins yellow undershirt. It had the Bruins logo on the front and I just couldn't stop smiling. I wore the heck out of that jersey. It lasted till I was about 16 and it not only didn't fit, it had been torn on the shoulders form being so tight. I later came to realize that these type shirts where worn by most of the team under their game and practise gear. I wish I would have kept that treasure.
Ken and Tom where such gentleman, it was a pleasure to have known them all though my life. This photo was taken at one the NHL Alumni lunches held in Toronto. I hadn't seen Ken in a long time and so glad to have had this time together with both these guys. It's amazing how nice people can influence a young person in such a positive way. I will always remember them both for their generosity and kindness towards others.
Thanks for reading along. Enjoy your day and be nice to people and animals.
Todd
