Is Rob doing this because he needs the money? Is he broke and destitute and in need of it to butress the millions in savings accounts he has? Or like the players asking for what their worth, is he saying he deserves his fair share regardless of how much money he has?
Its not like a pension or unemployment insurance fund he has a right to because he paid in. Although even unemployment officers can bar you on discretionary grounds even if you meet the technical criteria.
Its a good point Buffaloed about him qualifying to sign with Ottawa as he wasnt officially retired, but I tended to think the same as London Knights. Who actually believes he would play again unless there were replacement players? In my mind, a reasonable person would deem him for all practical purposes retired, not to mention insubordinate.
Im a big fan of Rob Ray, and commend him for standing up and telling players to question the union and get answers and remember the union are working for the players. I even commend his stand that players shouldnt accept a salary cap because its not fair and there are other ways to do it. Even rayzor supports Goodenow and the unions basic principle.
But Rob, that time for reflection has past. The fight is on. yOUR expression is now in terms of secret ballot ratification of the key points you are paying yopur experts to negotiate.
You have the right to appeal the loss of strike pay within the system, but its hard for a casual observer not to suspect you have personal motives and agenda against Goodenow when you go to the courts. Now. Maybe now is not the time to be in mutiny. Not everyone likes being one of a collective in negotiations, but that is the price you pay. Perhaps once this over you should lead a call for decertification. But it is counter-productive to question command during the crisis.
The players will have their voice in a secret ballot when asked to ratify any deals. Once the majority has spoken, they have the right to discipline members acting contrary to the interest the majority has the right to demand. That is the price you pay for bargaining collectively. If you are unhappy with this, the fight isnt with Goodenow.
If enough players in a secret ballot reject Goodenow and the executives recommendations and opt to accept a deal or cross a line, that is fair too. And our problems will be solved as hockey will be back.
BUt I agree with Rob, it is their lives and careers at stake. Get informed and make your decision. If the union is leading you into a battle they cant persuade you to join, vote to accept the owners deal. The mechanisms are in place. Mutiny just makes you look bad.