January 8th.
That is the night all the skaters and goalies from the local I-League report to the ice for "draft night". Am I expected to try out? How many goalies will show up for four teams? Will I make a team? Will I be drafted? I check and re-check my gear in anticipation of the night. I put it on again and again looking for equipment flaws. I am ready.
"It's funny how quickly I am transported back to my 10-year old self."
But its a secret.I haven't told anyone except Amy about my return. I am busting to tell my friend, Paul, about my plan and to scoop him up in my excitement. I don't tell him. I don't tell anyone. Not my friends and not my family.
What if 7 goalies show up for 4 teams and I am told, sorry we don't have room? What if I can't play anymore, or never really could? What if, by some cruel fate, I am asked to exit the ice- ridiculed for my poor showing? Memories of minor league try-outs and bench-sitting flood my mind. It's funny how quickly I am transported back to my 10-year old self.
I'm determined to put myself out there but I'm terrified I will fail before getting started.
January 8th.