BUCN Perfect : Crosby: Hated by Other Teams and Fans, Loved by Kids Everywhere.

Sidney Crosby is the player other cities, teams, and players love to hate. The Islanders cheered when he took a puck to the throat in round one. They chanted “princess Crosby” during games. Flyer’s fans refuse to give up the “Crosby sucks” chant in their arena. What exactly is it that makes people so hateful towards The Kid? And why, even though adults hate him, do kids across the world love him?

I’m not going to run down his stats, list of accomplishments, and awards for you because we all know he’s amazing. However, there are constantly people ragging on him. “He sucks.” “He’s a whiner.” “He complains to the referees too much.” All these things are reminiscent of another hockey great: Wayne Gretzky. People made the same exact comments about Gretzky when he was in his early years. Also, someone correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t it the captain’s job to argue for his team?

When the Steelers take a bad call doesn’t Ben argue on their behalf? When the Pirates take a bad call Hurdle comes out, giant wad of gum and everything, and doesn’t he argue with the umpires? Is this not Sid’s job to inspire his team? That coupled with pure hatred for him leads me to believe one thing: other teams, fans, and players are merely jealous of his incredible skill. I truly believe if he was playing for their teams, they would be singing a different tune.

So why do kids love The Kid so much? Easy. He’s the Gretzky/Lemieux of their generation!! He’s a great all around guy on and off the ice. No one sees Sid out getting plastered, making the news for being an idiot, abusing women, committing crimes, or anything. He’s relatively young still, he’s humble, well spoken, and let’s not forget about his on ice abilities. Kids are inspired by players who embody the talents they want to possess. Sid is that player.

We never hear rumors of him denying autographs or being rude to fans. We see how many kids in other cities during games wearing his jersey? Tons. He provides free hockey gear to 1,000 kids every year. That expense is taken on by himself, the team, and sponsors. They also provide free hockey sticks to all the elementary schools around the Pittsburgh area. All the kids get an #87 jersey, not because Sid wants it that way, but so the kids don’t fight over who gets to wear #87.

Instead of people being negative, they should recognize his skill, raw talent, and his contribution to society. He plays the game and he gives back to the community: Not his community in Canada, the community here in the US.

So how bad does “Princess” Crosby really suck? Not at all.