WHAT A CROC!

Ever heard of, scene, or worn a pair of Crocs?

If you haven't then you probably are some sub-species and obviously have never been near elementary school aged children or seen the zamboni at American Airlines Center. (It's sponsored by Crocs)

Ya those rubber clogs are everywhere (They even have a golfCroc coming out this year), anyway, I learned some interesting tidbits about the distribution and ownership of them this weekend while calling the pants off the two Stars-Avalanche games.

Reportedly new/old Avs star Peter Forsberg is heavily involved with Crocs (The shoes have become so synonymous with the star that they are known in his homeland as foppatoffels, or "Foppa slippers"). He is believed to have ownership of the European distribution of them (What a pile of dough that must be) and he is said to be involved in the company's future foray into Asia, which is akin to opening a money tree farm, what with the Olympics in Beijing this summer and all!

So where's the connection? I guess the inventor of these comfy, light-weight, slip resistant, odor-repelling shoes is a former hockey equipment rep and he and "Foppa" (Forsberg) became fast friends during his first tour with the Avs in Denver. (Where I believe the company is based.)

And here's the best (And , the worst for some) part of the story. Way back when Crocs were in their infancy Forsberg approached his teammates asking if they'd be interested in throwing a few bucks at this new shoe to help with the start-up.

Number of interested parties -- zero.

He then reportedly offered stock in this fledgling company to the team's trainers in lieu of an end of the season tip.

Number of takers -- zero.

Silly, silly fools. They'd be set for life. As I'm sure Mr. Forsberg is -- even if he had nine of them.

Moral of the story, when Foppa gives you a stock, pony or stickhandling tip -- listen intently, and do what he says.

Oh - and just so you have it Peter... my e-mail address is right here at "The Edge" and the inbox is always open for you buddy!

You're the greatest.

Your pal,

Razor