Stepping out of the comfort zone

---

The prestigious Victor Cup

About 6 or 7 weeks ago, I decided to start playing hockey with the local all women's team: The Victor Foxes!

It's been an amazing experience. Not only did I get to reconnect to one of my all-time favorite sports, I finally got to play myself for the first time since I was a child. My coach is amazing, and my teammates are all so encouraging. Coach has assigned me to be center forward, and I guess I must be doing well because she kept saying, "Just like that, do it again" at every shift change.

A couple weeks ago was my first game versus the local men's team and within a minute into my ice time, I scored a goal! I also managed to score another at the end, with some assists in between. It made me feel better about my limited hockey skills. 

Yesterday was the Victor Cup. It's an all day hockey tournament where all the local teams come together to play for a chance to win this prestigious cup. 

Unfortunately, the Foxes didn't win the cup, but we tried our assess off. I earned a few new bruises by giving it my all with every play I could. My injuries are mostly just bruises but the dreaded hip pointer formed after impact with the ice. Here's to hoping it'll all heal soon. 
​
I'd argue we had the best fans hands down. They made a bunch of signs for us and hung them around the rink, which was just so very cool. 

Plus I'm making friends. I really think these women are incredible, especially given we are all in our 30s to 40s learning how to play hockey in a serious way. I feel like these women are people I can build real friendships with, because not only are they amazing and fierce, they challenge and encourage me. It makes me hopeful.

It might sound silly but it's all thanks to this amazing hockey program in a tiny coloradan mountain town. 

Lots of Love,
Leia