Press Box Musings: Remembering Rick Rypien

Today the entire hockey world mourns the one-year passing of former NHLer Rick Rypien, who took his own life August 15, 2011 in his Coleman, AB home. He was only 27 years old.

Rypien's professional career spanned over seven seasons, which he split between the Vancouver Canucks and their AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose. During his tenure in Winnipeg, he became an instant fan favorite and a native son to the city, largely based on they way he played the game.

On the ice, Rick feared no one. Stood down to no one. Though smaller in stature than most other combatants, he welcomed all challengers. He played hockey with a brash physicality and fervor which Winnipeggers have adored for generations. Away from the rink, Rick was