Reader Comments

The are a total of [ 36 ] reader comments.

“ Your novel was quite a read. I learned an astounding number of things about the game of lacrosse, its creators, the history of the game, as well as the interesting history of America. Your characters were all extremely well developed and all carried moral and desirable attributes, which all people should encompass. The book helped me connect with the game in a much stronger and more passionate way and not only did it encourage me to become a better lacrosse player, but also a better person. Many of the situations encountered in The Spirit in the Stick were those, which I will probably face one day as well. As well as teaching Robbie about the world around him and the game of lacrosse, Red Hawk also taught me many things. My dad also read the book and felt similar sentiments regarding it as I did. I also gave the book to my older brother who is now attending [XXX] College and playing there. I know that he will enjoy the novel and learn from all of its events and characters greatly. Again, Mr. Duffy, I would like to say thank you for taking the time to compose this book and share it with so many others. It is truly a gift. ”
— High School Student, British Columbia, Canada

“ I’ve got a few time constraints over here, but managed to fly through the book in a few nights. What a great read! I just wanted to say thanks for your great piece of work along with letting you know that it’s reaching out to all corners of the Earth. ”
— Army officer serving in Afghanistan

“ The Spirit in the Stick is a magical story of a young boy and the sport of lacrosse. It is a wonderful book that I have shared with many children. It tells a wonderful story and teaches us to always 'Respect the Game.' ”
— Director of Physical Education and Athletics

“ The Spirit in the Stick is an inspirational read, reflecting a special "Spirit," and capturing the deep and rich history and lore of the Game of Lacrosse. Red Hawk magically conveys the essence of the characteristics of Command codified most prominently and clearly by the ancient Chinese philosopher-general Sun Tzu in the ageless classic The Art of War: wisdom, integrity, humanity, courage, and discipline - traits we need to reacquire and live by, as we move into a rapidly evolving 21st Century. A must-read! ”
— President & Founder - Strategic Science, LLC

“ I READ YOUR BOOK AFTER THE CONVENTION. I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. THIS SHOULD BE RQUIRED READING FOR ALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS. THERE IS SO MUCH TO LEARN NOT JUST ABOUT LACROSSE BUT ABOUT LIFE. ”
— Girls Youth Director, Massachusetts

“ Thank you for writing such a wonderful book. I was surprised to see it in the welcome packet at the lacrosse convention this year, but what a nice surprise. Once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. I think it's a book all youth coaches, players and parents should read.

My father taught me how to play, and he still has his wood sticks. He made sure we all understood the history and heritage of the game. I do the same with my players today (3rd-8th grade). My first 2 sticks were wood, I still have them. I bring my box stick to practice and games occasionally and it always draws a crowd.

Reading your book brought back all the memories of my youth lacrosse experience and reinforced everything I teach my players about respect for the game. Lacrosse is unique among sports, because of its origins, and your book could not have been written any better to point this out. It is the perfect way to educate everyone exposed to the game about what it means to be a lacrosse player.
”
— Howell, NJ

“ I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed reading your book. I received it as a gift from the high school club team I coach. It really captures the "respect the game concept" that I have tried to instill in my players. The book touches on many areas that have interested me over my career in the Air Force: lacrosse, military history, leadership, etc. I liked the way you weaved these concepts together in your book. Additionally, I played with a wooden stick at the Air Force Academy so I can really identify with your explanation of a player's attachment to his stick. Adiitionally, I attended the Program Manager's Course at Ft Belvoir with Capt Lewis in 1988 and had the opportunity to talk lacrosse with him. ...I plan to use your book to help motivate my high school players next year. I know I'm prejudiced, but I think your book would be a great movie. Thanks again for a very enjoyable read.


”
— Air Force Academy Grad

“ My son’s lacrosse coach gave me a copy of The Spirit in the Stick, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I then read it to my kids (11 year old son and 8 year old daughter). It has been a terrific experience reading your book to them and discussing the various characters and events. They both loved the book, each night pleading for me to read “just one more chapter.” They were especially enthralled with Red Hawk and his personalized stories of historical events. I have subsequently purchased another half dozen books and have been using them as birthday gifts for some of my son’s friends. The presents have been big hits, even to the non-lacrosse playing recipients. While certainly extolling the virtues of the great game of lacrosse, I think that your messages transcend lacrosse and sports, in general, and provide superb life lessons. Your book has also given our family several “to do’s”, including suggesting additional books to read together, a Gettysburg National Park visit, and attending an Army-Navy game. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful story.

p.s. As a youth sports coach (hockey, soccer), I think the chapter on Respecting the Game should be mandatory reading for all coaches, players, and parents. It should be the foundation of any and all youth sports programs.
”
— Massachusetts Dad and Coach

“ What a fantastic experience. I have always expressed the importance of "playing for the game" and "respect for all." I read the book and feel strongly that my players will have a new appreciation for the game and the Historical background of our truly authentic North American game, lacrosse.

Thank you for a great and very purposeful book.

”
— Anonymous

“ I was so moved by your book and its timeless message about the spirit of this wonderful game! Growing up in New Jersey in the early ‘60’s, I was fortunate to be introduced to the game in junior high, and played in high school, college, and post-collegiate. How lucky I was to have so many coaches who were committed to nurturing “the spirit of the game,” a concept that has been challenged on many levels these last twenty years of women’s lacrosse. Regardless of how the game has changed with new rules and equipment, the mantra of “the spirit of the game” continues to be heard!

I actually met you at the convention in January. My two friends also loved the book!
Many thanks!
”
— Massachusetts Mom and Coach

“ Well, it's 11:15 pm in Long Island and I can't seem to put your book down. First of all the storytelling is amazing! I have ordered 5 copies of the book for my [family]. Every once in a while life gives gifts that are unforgettable--your book is one of those!

Your love of the game, your respect for the Armed Services, and your spirituality make this book a must read for parents and children alike. Thank you for your service to our country and for using your gift of storytelling to pass tradition, commitment, and passion along.
”
— Long Island Mom

“ I have just arrived back in Melbourne from the USA and in particular the World Cup in Annapolis.

I read it on the flight home and thoroughly enjoyed it.

The detail, history, and the connection with the principles we pass on to our youth had me engrossed from start to finish.

I am sure that every reader simulates with at least some aspects throughout the story.

After reading it I wanted to get a copy for every player in my team as it has so much to offer. I had planned to email you for information of a distributor in Australia.

I have no doubt that there are many who will enjoy this book and look forward to arranging a supply.
”
— Australia

“ Just read your book on a recent trip to Iraq. The story was excellent! In fact I gave it to my can mate in Iraq, that’s what you live in over there. He also loved it as well. Anyway I plan to have my son read it but would also love to know where I can buy a copy for my future Daughter-in-law and hopefully have you sign it for her as well? I’ve posted a quick note about your book on the web to hopefully give you the credit you deserve for a great book. All the best!

”
— Navy Admiral

“ Wonderful book! My unlce gave me the book as a gift with a real nice note on the inside cover. I really enjoyed the story and learning about the history of the Turnbull award. I played in high school and college and cannot wait until my boys are old enough to read it. A must read for any young lacrosse player. ”
— Long Island

“ I recently agreed to organize and coach a boys CYO lacrosse team, and since many of our players are new to the game, I was searching for information on the history of the game to enlighten the boys and thier parents,

I also decided to attended the US Lacrosse Convention last week to get a refresh on the latest strategies and tactics. Although the information at the seminars was helpful, i was most intrigued when I saw your book which was included in our registration information. So, I took the book with me on a recent business trip.

I must admit, I could not put it down once I started. You have created a true work of art that will have a timeless appeal to both players and non players alike.

Weaving the history of the game with many of the values and priniples we want to instill in our young men is brilliant and I am in awe of how you arrived at this place. I cannot wait to pass it on to my two boys and the young men I will be working with this spring in hope that they catch the Spirit!

Thankfully Yours

[A Dad trying provide a positive role model for young men]

PS.

I am intrigued with the concept of a picture book for children. And a hardback version would be great as a gift.

Also, as an avid outdoorsman, archer and hunter, I was fascinated by your references to our bond with nature. It is one of my dreams to author a childrens book to help them to see nature's value and therefore be sensitive to our natural habitat.

"You cannot value what you do not see"



”
— CYO Coach

“ Thank you so much for writing such a master-piece. I received it at the US Lacrosse Coaches convention this past weekend and subsequently finished it in two sittings (ahhh, if only i didn't have to get up for work)!

After reading this, I plan on taking a stick from the late 50's that I received and passing it along before the season to one of my graduating senior players that demonstrates all of the characteristics. I am also planning to include a copy of the book, so that he may understand the true meaning of what this game we love is all about. I hope that from year to year this tradition will carry on from the graduating player to an underclassmen, to follow the next year.
”
— High School Coach, PA

“ I recently received a copy of your book from a good friend….I must confess I read the book twice, once at night and again the next morning for clarity.

When I first read the title the other day a certain feeling came over me and I knew at that moment a journey was about to take place. I'm not sure I'll ever find the words to express the profound effect this journey has made on me and soon to be made on my children.

After careful consideration and thought I'm compelled, or something or someone is compelling me to write to you. I must first begin by saying as a historian, I appreciate the weaving of history and historical events with the game of lacrosse. I was very interested in the characters, and their struggles, obstacles and successes. But most of all I was drawn and sometimes overwhelmed to the connections that I made while reading the book….I hope the sequel is written........not for the "Robbie's "of the world, but for young girls whoever they may be....In the book on pp.143, Red Hawk is given two sticks, one is passed along to Robbie the other to his (Red Hawk) sister.....the sequel has the potential to be just as moving….

The second book has to be written only for the story to be complete...........and for the spirit of the stick to continue….

…Just wanted you to know that your book triggered so much in my mind...a genuine thank you….
”
— Upstate, NY

“ I read your book and, like everyone, I thought it was awesome! Without question your book should be required reading for everyone who has played the game.

I showed the book to my son (7). After asking a few questions about it, he decided that he wants me to read a little bit of the story every evening before he goes to bed. We started last night. …
”
— Richmond, VA

“ I'm really enjoying your book. I'm on the chapter called Het Achterhuis. I really like the idea of the dreams. The front of the book has magnificent illustrations! I also like the different quotes on each chapter. When I get old enough I want to play lacrosse at [my high school]. I have learned from this book to respect the game of lacrosse. When I finished the chapter called respect the game, I knew I liked the game.

Thank you for being such a great example! I can't wait to finish the book!

Sincerely,
[Third-grade girl]
”
— Third Grade Girl

“ We would like to express our deepest gratitude for all you’ve done. You have greatly helped us in preparing for the season. Our team is currently undefeated. We truly enjoyed your book and it has influenced us greatly.
Sincerely,
[Signed by 26 players from a youth league team in XXX]
”
— Youth League Team in Florida

“ I was so moved by your book and its timeless message about the spirit of this wonderful game! Growing up in New Jersey in the early ‘60’s, I was fortunate to be introduced to the game in junior high, and played in high school, college, and post-collegiate. How lucky I was to have so many coaches who were committed to nurturing “the spirit of the game,” a concept that has been challenged on many levels these last twenty years of women’s lacrosse. Regardless of how the game has changed with new rules and equipment, the mantra of “the spirit of the game” continues to be heard!
I actually met you at the convention in January. My two friends also loved the book!
Many thanks!
”
— Girls' Coach

“ As the wife of a former lacrosse player, the mother of a 10 year old aspiring lacrosse daughter, and the teacher of middle school students with very varied athletic interests, I truly enjoyed the message in your book. I would like to recommend it for summer reading, but I wasn't sure of what you would consider the reading level of the book. Please let me know. ”
— Wife, mother, teacher

“ After just completing your book, I wanted to congratulate you on a work of art. I am going to pass this book on to my principal at the middle school and ask that it be required reading for the students.

The blend of fiction and history make for an enjoyable story. Hope all is well with you and your family and look forward to the next time we meet.
”
— Teacher and Coach - Upstate NY

“ My name is [XX] and I am a former collegiate player at [XX] and currently am the head coach at [XX] University. I was given a copy of your book by Dud Hendrick at the Cardigan Mountain Lacrosse Camp. It was a truly remarkable story that I had trouble putting down once I started. The book really made me sit and think more about the game and how lucky I and anyone else involved in lacrosse is to be part of the greatest game ever, The Creator's Game. I am going to recommend it to all of my players to read, mainly because we are a young program and a lot of the players don't realize the true meaning of the sport and therefore take it for granted. Thank You for writing this book and giving me a greater insight as well. ”
— College Coach

“ I am eleven years old. My father read your book and loved it and told me to read it also. I loved it!!!!!!!! It made me want to get off the couch and go practice right then and there! Although I’ve played Lacrosse for practically all of my life, I joined a team just this past year and I think it was the best decision I’ve ever made! My coach is great, and like the message in the book, she taught us to respect the game. Lacrosse is a huge part of my life, I’ve traveled all across the east to my dad’s games, and each game has not only made me a better player, it made me love the game even more than I did the day before. I told lots of my friends and family about the book, and I hope they enjoy it as much as I did. It wasn’t just a book to me, I felt as if I knew each and everyone in the book as a close and personal friend. Just before I read the book, I was at Bowdoin College learning all about General Chamberlain, so when I read him in your book I was very excited! It was like I was standing next to General Casey and Joshua Chamberlain. You are an amazing author and I don’t see how anybody could dislike The Spirit in the Stick!! My father and I have an answer to your question: (should there be a prequel or sequel?) We think a good sequel would be for Robbie to grow old and give the stick to a girl, because girls Lacrosse is just as popular as boys now! Thank you for your time!!
Sincerely,
A dedicated Lacrosse player!

p.s. I do respect the game of Lacrosse!
”
— 11-year-old girl

“ My mom got me the real book for Christmas! So I do not need the e:mails anymore. I am going to read the whole thing then lend it to my friends so we can all talk about it! My mom really likes the questions at the end of the book--it is just like her book club books.
[D. D.]

Age 8
Lax Fanatic
Cockeysville, Maryland ”
— Eight-Year-Old

“ I remember some good times we shared together while working the Carolina Camp years ago. At that time I really came to respect you as a person, father and coach. It is no surprise to me that you could write such a materpiece. I received your book in my packet of information at the lax convention and could not wait to read it on my way back to California. Needless to say, I could not put the book down, and it was a a fasinating journey for me. Like Dom Starsia said, this book has touched me in so many ways.

I still have deep roots at the Naval Academy and still remember running the campus during my childhood with three future Navy laxers Dan Smalley '89, Tim Andrews '88 and Frank Snyder '88. After I moved from Columbus Ohio I can remember getting my first lacrosse stick in downtown Annapolis. I never put the stick down and to this day, I am so thankful that my family made the move to Maryland. I have so many great memories with these guys and the book took me back in time.

I am going to send this book to my three friends and many others. I am in sales now, (still coaching youth) selling turf in Northern CA and I plan on giving a copy of the book to my customers as well. I also plan to read the book with my son who is 10, playing lax, but because he is 10, he does not understand so many things that your book can teach him. I will also require that my 16 year old daughter read the book, and I cannot wait to see her reaction and hear her thoughts.

So many people do not understand my passion for this great game of lacrosse. I thank you for finally finding a way to begin to explain why this passion exists for so many of us who love this game. I also thank you for reassuring me that it is ok to be this passionate about something and not feeling so vein for doing so.

I sincerely appreciate your efforts. I hope you and your family are well.
”
— California

“ What a great book! It brought back many memories of playing the game in highscool in upstate New York. I even had the honor of playing one game at Michie Stadium, West Point in the late 70's. I believe that the great game of Lacrosse never leaves a former player. Congratulations and much sucess in the future.
M. G. - Sunnyvale, Texas ”
— Sunnyvale, Texas

“ Both my son and myself enjoyed your book. It was especially fun for me because Doug Turnbull is my cousin and I got to know him a bit. Unfortunately I never got to meet Jack, but I have heard wonderful stories about him. They were both very close to my Mom. My son is not a great reader, but your book is one of the first, I hope of many that he has picked up and read without a threat hanging over him. I guess you can tell we are both big lacrosse fans. Me from the side lines and him on the field.

Thank you for the great read! ”
— Anonymous

“ I would like to order 700 copies of the book! ”
— Anonymous

“ Hi Neil - YOUR BOOK IS WONDERFUL!! Our family fought over our copy as all four of us began when we received it. One person would put it down and the next picked it up to continue where they had left off. The extra copies we got were given as graduation presents to our kids' friends, thank you gifts for their coaches and as "Coach's Awards" at the camp my husband runs in the summer. Lacrosse is more than just a sport and your writing brought out its history, fun, moral character, and an imaginative (believable) aura surrounding the game. Thanks for sharing your tale with the rest of us! ”
— Anonymous

“ I love the book and I will definitely order a bunch more for my team next year. I know at least one other coach is going to do the same. I am trying to get the organizers of the program to make the book part of the price and give them out to all participants at the 5th and 6th grade levels. ”
— Anonymous

“ I love how I feel every time I read your book, The Spirit in the Stick. It helps me remember the true spirit of life. The game of lacrosse is one of the most exciting and competitive games of modern times, as a parent of a young athlete I feel it is important to help our children grow with strength and tenderness, to remain grounded and pure. Your fun and delightfully east reading book helps me to help my young athlete down that road. [Your book has] helped many kids experience the wonders of lacrosse. We can't wait to meet you in person one day, until then ”
— Anonymous

“ Dear Mr. Duffy,

I read your book the spirit in the stick. It was one of the best books I ever read. I liked it because it had fiction and non-fiction. I learned a little history from it.

It was great! ”
— 9-year-old boy, Amityville, NY

“ Just read your book on a recent trip to Iraq. The story was excellent! In fact I gave it to my can mate in Iraq, that’s what you live in over there. He also loved it as well. Gave it to my wife as mandatory reading upon my return. A miracle that she read the whole thing, a bull major form VCU who normally prefers Harlequin romance novels – go figure. Anyway I plan to have my son read it but would also love to know where I can buy a copy for my future Daughter-in-law and hopefully have you sign it for her as well? I’ve posted a quick note about your book on the web to hopefully give you the credit you deserve for a great book. All the best!

Rear Admiral, US Navy ”
— Rear Admiral

“ I enjoyed the book tremendously and will treasure the copy you signed for me. It has some great messages, Neil. It would be wonderful if a truly meaningful number of today's young people could experience the messages the book sends.

Carl Ullrich — Former Director of Athletics at West Point and Commissioner of the Patriot League
”
— Carl Ullrich