2 years ago today Erich Buecker (far right) passed away. Erich was a 2nd father figure to not only myself but the whole group of us.
This season (pIctured) I was supposed to play on the Jr. team. I didn't mesh with the older guys and I felt lost. I was going to quit basketball. I told Goulet I thought it would be best for me to play grade 9. I had no idea what I was doing, all I knew is that I wasn't having fun playing the game anymore. I was ridiculed and told it would haunt me. Erich and Mr. Ned stood behind me. That year We played 1on1 every single day from the time school ended until the time practice started at 7 pm. Every. Single. Day. Erich was on disability because of his vision so he had time. He would absolutely bust my ass. 3 hours a day. All year. He would coach me and give me confidence throughout. After this year I moved to MN to play with hopes of making the varsity team. No one supported me from home - except Erich. Three years later when I became the schools all time leading scorer he was the first to call.
When I committed to UBC after coming home from the US he would bus from Pitt to watch me play. 3 hours. Each way. We would chat on FB after. I would rant about how I didn't feel I was being used properly. He told me calmly - work harder and don't complain. I shut up and listened. 2 years later I was an All-Canadian.
When I signed my 1st pro contract he was elated. Literally cried. The day I found out he wasn't going to make it I was in the change room in Medias, Romania preparing. I remember it like yesterday. I was crying and I couldn't pull myself together to take the court. A week prior he dropped me a random note saying he was proud of me in the middle of the night. I thought to myself what would Erich want me to do. I practiced, crying nearly the entire time.
This isn't about me. This is about a great man and the impact you can have on someone by simply giving a f*ck. He inspired me to believe in myself, far before I ever could bring it out of myself. Playing on that team, at that time was the best thing to ever happen to me.
I think about you everyday.
Anyone who knew you is better for it.
Love always,
Doug
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