Training Camp Opens

To me this feels like Christmas time. There's magic in the air and I know Christmas (October 4th in my world) is almost here. Reading Steve Zipay's and Sam Weinman's comments about practice is making me feel giddy. This is what I love about hockey. No other sport allows you to understand the players' personalities like hockey. From Weinman, “Last year I scored 26 goals. Maybe this year there’s more goals because there are good forwards and a good center here,” Zherdev said. “I’ll try to score more goals and win the Stanley Cup.” Then later asked about how he felt after being hit by Dane Byers (really Dane? you want to make the team after hitting our top line right winger?) Zherdev said, "“It’s OK,” who only had a slight scratch on his face as a result. “It’s hockey.” These two quotes give me some insight into what I can expect from Zherdev. First, he's out to prove something. Secondly, he's not a prissy winger, he'll be able to take a hit. Then we go over to Rozsival. Michal Rozsival refused to divulge what number he’ll wear this season. “It’s a secret,” Rozsival said. “It’s actually the last two digits of my social security number.” “What about 68?” someone suggested. “No,” Rozsival said. “Too much pressure.” Hahaha and the legend of Jagr continues. Imagine Rozsival going over to Prague wearing 68. It's almost here! I just hope I can fall asleep on October 3rd; I used to spend way too many sleepless Christmas Eves.