Some of you have asked me what the name of my blog means; others know. For both of you (yes, both the readers of this blog), I'll admit to the fact that last night, for the first time this century, I put on a full set of ice hockey goalie equipment and played an hour long game. Perhaps my recollection of the great view I used to get from the crease (the goaltender's protected area in hockey) was made rosier by time. Perhaps I, and in particular my back, was much younger when I formed my opinion of the best place to watch hockey. Perhaps I was much more flexible and in much better shape when I came up with this...
Nevertheless, it's still a great place to watch a game from. When your team has the puck, you can see the play developing, direct traffic, warn teammates about a player coming from behind, and enjoy the beauty of a great goal. When the other team has the puck, you still get the best seat in the house to see the play develop and you also get an up close and personal view of goals being scored (most of those came while I was on my stomach).
A few observations:
- The new equipment is nice, much more protective and lightweight than I used to wear (25 years ago)
- I still can't play the "deke"
- The equipment, though lighter than it used to be, is still heavy
- I forgot how bad your hands smell after a game!
- I used to wear contacts.
- I still remember how to give a "Waffle Sandwich" to someone who strays too close to my goal (kids -- especially kids I coach -- don't try this at home or a rink). The goaltender's blocker used to be called a "waffle" because it resembled one -- with sharp, square corners (I think you might be getting the sandwich part now).
- I still hate the term, sieve.
- I will be sore in the morning.
I appreciate the guys on the other team going easy on me, but geriatric hockey can rest easy...I don't think I'll be doing that any time soon. For now I'll be content with this view from the crease.
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