When Mark Rycroft first joined the Altitude team in 2009, my mom goes, “Who is this guy? He looks like he is sitting on phone books. He’s so squirrelly!” Rycroft has since been known as “Squirrelly” in our family. I assure you it has become a term of endearment. Rycroft’s enthusiasm for the Avalanche is infectious. When I’m upset, he’s upset. When I’m happy, he’s happy. Not to mention the Don Cherry like apparel he dons on a nightly biases, Squirrelly never ceases to disappoint.
Last week my little (but much bigger) brother and I were at the Blue Sky Grill while Kyle Keefe and Mark Rycroft were broadcasting the post-game show.* I couldn’t resist the opportunity to talk to them after the show, and let me say, that they both exceeded my expectations.
I’m sure it was the courage of my Coors Light tall boys (the best deal at Pepsi Center), but I went up to Rycroft and said “I just love you, can I give you a hug?” which he was more than willing to accept. Both Rycroft and Keefe were so friendly, and even willing to take pictures with us. I say pictures because the lighting wasn’t quite right and we kept trying to get the best shot.
We never really got the best shot, but it was without a doubt one of the best nights I had a Pepsi Center all year. It also helped that we defeated Buffalo 5-3. As my brother, Jack, referred to it, it was just as exciting as meeting B rate Avalanche players. Let’s be honest, if I were to see Joe Sakic, as much as I hope I would have the courage to ask for a hug, I’d probably pass out before I got the words out.
Rycroft and Keefe are without a doubt one of the best parts of the Avalanche, and I consider them to be a part of the team. My only question is why don’t they broadcast for all the games? Kroenke, is this just a ploy so that they aren’t considered full-time employees, and you don’t have to pay them benefits? I wouldn’t put it past ya.
If this still hasn’t convinced you into a loyal follower of the duo, watch this video and you’ll be a fan forever.
*If my dad was able to work his new Samsung phone, I’d be able to post the priceless video of my brother and I behind Keefe and Rycroft during their broadcast.
