NUMBER ONE

One thing I like about hockey is that you can inspire your teammates simply by how you play the game. One simple action can be game changing, in a split second. A stretch, a stride, a reach. One act of pushback can put your opponents on their heels, empowering your teammates' passion... having a unifying, momentous, effect. One hit. One turnover. One pass. One face off. One blocked shot. One deke. One save. One goal. One forecheck. One backcheck. One decision. An act of selflessness. A chosen skate to the bench. A shortened shift. The look of strength, the demonstration of courage, the heart of desire, the resolve of confidence, the smoothness of form, the alertness of speed, the motion of agility, the serenity of belief, the quietness of security, the intent of purpose, the proof of fearlessness, can intimidate those who have no place as champs. The exposing of opponents, the reminder of their unfitness, the deflation of egos, is affirmation of due respect and true greatness. Sweeping your opponents, in an otherwise potential five game series final, to be named as competitive hockey champions, is no hand-out, no "walk in the park," so to speak... no gimme. The Drillers (name is from well-water drilling) of Parksville, British Columbia, are a team of players who know how to win. I must say that I'm proud of my teammates and happy they allowed me to play a small part of a dominant performance.