Why minor hockey can't succeed in the U.S.

If the U.S. can't love Tim Hortons, then how can they love minor hockey? How is it possible outlets in America are closing? In Canada, Timmies and kids' hockey are joined at the hip. So much so, that in my son's home arena the food booth vendor has put up a sign purporting to sell Tim Hortons coffee. Of course it's not a franchise - he just bought a take-home tin and is brewing away.

Here's what a typical Canadian minor hockey volunteer looks like before a game. Note the spiffy West London Hawks jacket. And the tournament tie.