Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/90963
"We battle like true rivals on the ice, but in times of conflict there's a brotherhood between the service academies, and we're all on the same team in that sense." As such, the coaches all face the same challenges in recruiting players, knowing that only a very rare person will fit the academies' rigorous academic standards, and accept the five-year commitment to enrollment. In exchange, they have Uncle Sam paying for four years of college at some of the most renowned institutions of higher learning in the world, and they're guaranteed a job upon graduation. It's a job that can often be dangerous, and is considered the highest honor available. "That, to me, speaks volumes about the character and the type of young man that chooses a service academy," said Riley, whose father Jack and brother Rob also served as head coaches at Army. "When these men graduate from West Point, they're going to be officers, and they're going military service that comes with from one-time Black Knights who have completed their military service and are now in civilian life. And just as often, they check in via a secure line from military bases throughout the world. Riley said he always replies, and usually signs each email with the same parting thought: "Be safe, and know how proud I am of you." daughters of this country." to be defending the sons and Like any coach who keeps in touch with his former players, Riley often gets email He traded similar emails with Kennedy earlier in the summer. The son of a retired NYPD inspector, Kennedy was to be stationed at Fort Carson, near Colorado Springs, upon returning from Afghanistan. "We didn't really even say goodbye," Riley said. "I thought I'd see him in January Army Head Coach Brian Riley shares a unique bond with his players, who are not only great athletes and students, but are ready to serve their country around the world. when we go to Air Force." got a painful reminder of the special person that chooses to serve the people of the United States, on the ice and in harm's way. "To coach this team is a humbling and rewarding experience," Riley said, as the Black Knights began early-season practices, and a new set of their legs on the ice of Tate Rink for the first freshmen stretched time. "These players are amazing representatives of everything that's great about our country." N Jess Myers covers college hockey for 1500 ESPN Radio in Minneapolis/St. Paul. PHOTOS BY Danny Wild; U.S. Military Academy USAHOCKEYMAGAZINE.COM NOVEMBER.2012 25 Instead, the coach, the team and the nation