Its hard to believe but Mike Rosenberg has only played 25 games for the storied franchise in the past 2 calendar years. But his light still shines as bright as if he played last game. #3 will make a return to the ice tonight in the Bombers contest vs the first place Puck Pimps.
Ticket sales jumped 200% as a result of the news. As we await the chance to see him again on the ice, its important to look at the impact he has had on the organization.
His stats alone fill up the Bomber record books.
Before the start of the current season Mike was:
1st in goals scored in the modern era with 190 tallies.
1st in career hat tricks with 12
1st in points per game career (min 100 gp) with a 1.36 average
2nd in points with 318
2nd in assists with 128
2nd in goals in a season with 24
Mike is even top ten in career penalty minutes-go figure?!
And of course the stats don't tell a tenth of the story. Mike, is a member of the first "named" line in Bomber history-"The Time Line". With Gary Simpson on his left and Rober' Auld at center, the trio was on the ice a lot (hence the name!)-scoring many important goals in Bomber history.
Mike of course worked tirelessly to bring about the creation of "Charity Hockey Classic" series of games against the NJ Devil Alumni that raised over $50,000 for various charities. The first ever corporate sponser of the Bomber organization was Mike's very own State Electric, who's logo was prominately displayed on many a Bomber jersey. State Electric was also responsible for bringing the Stanley Cup to the Classic. A true diplomat to the game of hockey and a passionate participant of a team who historically has been called "The most storied franchise in adult hockey history."
Bomber Captain Bill Auld gave some insight into a crossroads moment for the organization that involved Mike. "Back in the early Chimney Rock days, Mike was unsure if he was going to be able to play anymore. He wanted to compete with the Bombers but a club local to his home wanted his services. The commute was 10 minutes as opposed to 45. The Bombers were on their way but we weren't yet the "BOMBERS" everyone knows and loves today. I knew at that time we would be hard pressed to keep the momentum of the club without Mike and friend and linemate, Gary Simpson. If there ever was a pivotal moment in the early days of the organization it was the night Mike decided to stay. In the end, as is always the case with Mike, the conversation was simple. I had prepared a speech as to why he should stay and I didn't even get to use it. I said Mike- you're a Bomber-and Mike said- Yes I am. See you next week!"
A championship followed that next season and Mike was named Most Valuable Bomber for the season. But it is the comeraderie that with all of his teammates that is most admirable and he is no doubt one of the most influential members of a team that has many, many influential members.
So welcome back Mike. See you tonight!
(hopefully all this butt kissing will get Mike to sign up full time next season? worth a try, right!)
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