As we were getting back to the hotel after the morning skate in San Antonio, Admirals defenseman Nolan Yonkman said to me, “Big night for me, huh?”

Yonkman played his 400th career game as a professional Tuesday night against the Rampage. I asked him if he realized he was reaching the milestone and he said he had no idea. He then said he hopes he has another 700 games in him.

It’s pretty special when a player reaches a milestone. Several Admirals players are closing in on different ones. Not many of them realize this, though. It’s not because they don’t care. On the contrary, they just do the job.

We all give thanks at this time of year for many things. Among many other things, I’m thankful for the people in this world that go to work every day, not for the accolades but to make a living and help their families and others.

So, thanks to the athletes and coaches and people in the front office I’ve had the privilege to work with.

And thanks to the fans of the Milwaukee Admirals.

Moving on...

As a follow up to a blog about MMA tactics in hockey, I asked defenseman Scott Ford for his comments. He saw where I was coming from when I told him I didn’t see it as a big deal. He then added a personal anecdote about a time he fought Martin Grenier and Grenier pinned him to the ice and started to hammer his forearms to Ford’s head. Scott explained how unpleasant that was.

I was saddened to see San Antonio fired head coach Greg Ireland. Greg was one of my favorite opposing coaches to visit with. That said, I’m very excited to see Ray Edwards named the head coach. Ray will do a good job for the Rampage. There’s a lot of talent on that team.

Ben Guite told me his favorite rink to skate at in the U.S. is the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, home of the Minnesota Wild. He was also quick to point out the locker room at the Bradley Center is as good as any he’s been in.

Until next time…Go Admirals!!!