One month ago today the team took to the ice to begin a stretch of what was supposed to be a busy six days, including four games at home.

Then, we had no idea we’d be where we are now.

As we’ve now reached the four-week mark of this chapter, let’s take a look back on the seven-day stretch that was.

Fasching Named Man of the Year

Yet again Monday brought the best news of the week.  The American Hockey League announced the winner of each team’s Man of the Year award, recognizing 31 players from around the league for their excellence in their respective communities, naming forward Hudson Fasching as Tucson’s recipient.

Anyone who has had the privilege of meeting Hudson shouldn’t be very shocked by this, as the second-year member of the club has a contagious, upbeat attitude at almost all times.  Always willing to lend a hand, Fasching’s trips to local hospitals and schools earned him the nomination.

Of the 31 players now one will ultimately win the AHL’s Yannick Dupre Memorial Award as the league-wide Man of the Year.

Varady, Fasching Media Conference Call

Wednesday afternoon Head Coach Jay Varady and Fasching met with the media for the club’s first availability since the seasons’ pause, completing availability via Zoom Conference.

The second-year bench boss began the availability by answering questions regarding what he’s been up to over the month, including chatting with coaches from other sports and keeping tabs with his players to ensure everyone remains ready during these uncertain times.

To read the article from the Arizona Daily Star’s Brett Fera regarding the availability click HERE.

Fasching continued the call by fielding questions on his award and also bringing the media members up to speed about what he’s been up to over the past little bit.  Puzzles and pasta, to answer for short.

To view News 4 Tucson’s David Kelly’s piece on Fasching, click HERE.

Los Correcaminos Sweaters Up For Grabs

Saturday, March 28 was scheduled to be the team’s Touch of Tucson Night, celebrating the local culture in front of a well-attended crowd inside the TCC.

Everything from Tacos and Tequila pregame, a Cactus League Wrestling match on the plaza, all would’ve been a truly unique evening that I believe fans thoroughly would’ve enjoyed.

Unfortunately, an event such as this will have to wait for another date, however, we are left with one important item of the night that now becomes an instant collector’s item…

The team was slated to take on the alter ego of Los Correcaminos, a Spanish-translation of the Roadrunners, donning purple uniforms with a script font on the front and the alternate Kachina logo featured as a shoulder patch for the first time.

Now, we’re allowing fans to get their hands on them through DASH Auction.

In addition to the uniqueness of the auction itself, it’s also a seldom opportunity for fans to get their hands on authentic uniforms.

This Week In Team History

Remember these nights?

April 6, 2018 – Adin Hill denied all 26 shots against Grand Rapids in their first-ever trip to the desert for his fourth of a career-high five shutouts that season.  It also was a part of his record-long shutout streak, which eventually concluded at 182:33.

April 11, 2017 – Christian Fischer became the franchise’s first-ever 20-goal scorer, striking just 4:03 into a 2-1 win over San Jose.  It was the third-last game of the season and as we know now, the third-last game of Fischer’s inaugural Roadrunners career, since evolving into a full-time NHLer.

April 11, 2018 – The fifth and final shutout of Adin Hill’s season came with 36 stops over the rival San Diego Gulls.  It was the start of three games in four days against the I-8 enemy, in which they needed just one point in three games to make the playoffs. We all recall what happened there, correct?

The Outro

Thanks to all who have taken the time to read the blog over the last few weeks, I hope it’s allowed a brief break into this time of uncertainty for you.

Be safe.