In life, growth often lies outside our comfort zones. Stepping into the unknown, facing our fears, and embracing new challenges can lead to remarkable personal development. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience this firsthand when I participated in my first-ever hockey tournament. Despite my initial trepidation and a nagging injury, I pushed through, had a blast, and by game 4, didn’t want it to end! I also learned many valuable life lessons along the way:
Facing Fear and Finding Support: As I laced up my skates for that first game, anxiety coursed through my veins. The fear of the unknown was palpable, but I was determined to forge ahead. The experienced players on my team kindly offered their unwavering patience and support, helping me feel at ease. Additionally, my wing partner's encouragement and guidance played a crucial role in boosting my confidence. Hockey is more than a game; it is a collective endeavor, with everyone working together towards a common goal.
The Power of Team Spirit: The beauty of team sports lies in the spirit of camaraderie that develops among teammates. Despite our slow start, as the tournament progressed, our team began to gel. We learned to communicate effectively on the ice, anticipate each other’s moves, and adapt to the ebb and flow of the game. The joy and satisfaction of witnessing this transformation were truly exhilarating. The bond we forged extended beyond the rink, as we shared pregame rituals, like enjoying KitKats from our captain, and endless laughter both in the dressing room and on the bench!
Acknowledging the Facilitators: It is important to recognize the individuals who make such experiences possible. Heather @NtlHockeyDevelopment, deserves commendation for her efforts in encouraging woman to embrace the sport. Her organization skills in arranging the tournament, complete with the embellishments of John Bartlett, SportsNet announcing our entry onto the ice and having the games live streamed on YouTube, were exceptional.
Innovatex also played a role, providing tumblers as coveted non-trophy prizing, a delightful reminder of a remarkable weekend at the Never Too Late hockey tournament.
Embracing the Journey: As the tournament was wrapping up in game 4, I realized the significance of stepping out of my comfort zone and taking risks. A teammate had suggested that I tape my injury which was an absolute game changer!! I was fortunate to have some Heali ( https://www.healimedical.com/) on hand, an incredible product developed by two fellow Diversified WBE (https://wbecanada.ca/) members. It was only afterwards that I realized just how much I had been compensating. I knew my game was off but didn’t realize the injury was affecting it as much as it was. After applying the tape, my line mate was shocked at the difference in my game. Goes to show how the right tools and support can influence the result.
The memories and lessons learned from this experience will forever be cherished. My advice to others contemplating a similar leap is simple: don't overthink it. Sometimes, you just need to take the plunge. The rewards and personal growth that await you are worth the initial apprehension. So go ahead, embrace the unknown, and discover the incredible person you can become.
Playing in my first hockey tournament was a transformative experience that allowed me to grow in unexpected ways. Overcoming fear, finding support from teammates, and fostering a sense of team spirit were all integral to my personal development. I am immensely grateful to Heather and Never Too Late Hockey for creating an inclusive environment where individuals can push their boundaries and explore new passions. With each tournament, I eagerly anticipate adding to my collection of wine tumblers, serving as a constant reminder of the incredible journeys that lie ahead.
Remember, sometimes you just need to say yes. You'll be glad you did.
