After your last game has come and gone, you’re going to remember the times when you wanted to quit— but didn’t. You’re going to remember the teammates (and families) you loved along the way. You’re going to remember playing in the coldest rinks, the ones with the best concession stands and the ones with the worst. You’re going to remember the hotel bonding, mini sticks in the hallways and hanging out in the lobby after practices. You’re going to remember the early morning tournaments and the late night games. You’re going to remember the coaches that never gave up on you. But most of all, you’re going to remember the sheer happiness that came only from stepping on the ice with your friends. You’re going to remember the moments you did more than you ever believed you could. You’re going to remember the times you used every ounce of talent God gave you.
One day this won’t be your life anymore. So for today, skate as fast as your legs will let you. For today, swing that stick as hard as you can. Whether it’s a pass to your teammate or a goal from the blue line. Commit to every moment and give it everything you have. For today, make every play like it’s the last chance you’ll ever get. For today, play because you want to. Play because you need to. Play because the little boy you are fell in love with this game.
For today, play with all of your heart and leave it all out on the ice. One day, this won’t be your life anymore. When that day comes, make sure you wouldn’t change a thing.
