New Era in Big D

Today marked the offical begining of the Tom Gaglardi (guh-LAR-dee) reign in Dallas as the Stars (@dallasstars) owner.  It was a very moving press conference which saw the NHL (@NHL) commissioner, Gary Bettman in attendance.  First, Gaglardi thanked the commissioner, the Dallas Stars staff and media for showing up to what he said was, "one of the best days of my life."

Many alumni from teams past which included Mike Modano (@9Modano), Brett Hull (@2ndBestHull) and Jere Lehtonen, who were acknowledged by Stars GM, Joe Nieuwendyk as "people who care about the organization," were present...perhaps eluding some kind of involvement with the team in some capacity.  Mr. Gaglardi proceeded to say he couldn't believe the day has finally arrived in which he can finally get involved with the team and the community, as he acknowledged the patience of his wife, Brittney and the board of governors as the process took "longer than he thought."  He also thanked the fans of Dallas, as he proudly proclaimed the "time of uncertainty is over."

He shared his philosophy that has made him a very successful business owner in Canada as "hire the best, support them and empower them."  This is evident in his confidence in Joe Nieuwendyk as general manager and then (re)adding Jim Lites as the CEO and President of the team, referring to Lites as "an owner's dream."  He said returning to the glory days will take some time, but it will happen, then referenced a plaque his father has hanging in his office that reads, "Excuses are for people who make them."

Tom's background stems from playing the sport since he was five years old, despite his mother hailing from Longview, TX.  He continues to play the game two to three times a week and has been able to spend time with Norm Green and Tom Hicks over the past few months to learn from "their shortcomings."  As a current owner of a WHL team, where there is no payroll for the players, he's dedicated to the concept of building from within and successful drafts.  "You can't buy a winner," he stated.

Bottom line, he's here to win.  He hopes to promote the sport, especially among the youth of the area with the help of the Stars Centers throughout the area.  Jim Lites commented on reaching out to the community and he said it "felt like '93, only it's less daunting.  In 1993, they didn't know if there were hockey fans to be found."  Now, there is a fan base and a greater understanding of the sport, however, they are committed to reaching out to everyone...re-engage the old fans and reach out to potential new ones.

Tom Gaglardi is committed to winning.  That's not just a cliche.  That was evident in his voice that came close to breaking on several occasions.  Nieuwendyk says it's terrific to have a passionate guy at the helm.  It's been a while since this team has had passion at the top.  Today, passion was personified.