He's Back December, 1997

By Alex Melton

He's back and ready to help the Tiger Sharks score on the rest of the ECHL's Southern Conference. Who is this mystery man'?

It's # 15, Dan "The Man" Lupo.

Dan returned to Tiger Shark action on November 13th, against the Birmingham Bulls. In just 5 games, he has let coaches and fans know that he means business when it comes to hockey. He has racked up three goals, sixteen penalty minutes, and had some great plays.

For Dan, the game of hockey started in Boston, Massachusetts where he played hockey (ice and roller) all year long with his friends. After a lot of games and a lot of hard work, he turned professional and played roller hockey. His first professional goal was in roller hockey, but his first pro ice hockey goal was scored last year as a Tiger Shark, playing the Pensacola Ice Pilots.

"The Man" doesn't really describe Dan Lupo. He is best described as a real team player. When I asked him what makes a good hockey player and a good hockey team, Dan said "...there isn't an 'I' in team, which means no selfish players. Everyone works together."

Like a lot of Tiger Sharks fans, Dan's favorite part of the game is when a pretty goal is made and the crowd gets fired up.

Off the ice, Dan becomes a real big kid. He likes to lift weights, shoot pool, and take in a movie with his friends and teammates. He likes music and listens to his favorite group Pearl Jam.

Just like big or little kids, Dan has a wish list - he would like to have a dog!

If he is on the ice, playing relays at the park, or hanging around with friends, Dan is sure to make you feel like you are on his team. It is great to have him back on ours.

PS. Maybe he will get that dog for Christmas.