Page 5 of Gamechanger

Coach Fraser's gruff voice cut through all the chit-chat. "Novak. Office. Now."

As I headed that way, I spotted Quinn, and he gave me a subtle nod of approval.

While I knocked tentatively on his office door, I listened to the hum of fluorescent lights overhead. When he called for me toenter, I stepped inside. It was like walking into a cloud of coffee vapor.

Coach looked up from behind piles of old playbooks and single sheets of scribbled diagrams. He gestured for me to sit opposite him. As I grabbed the chair, I did my best not to fidget.

"I've been watching you," he began.

I swallowed hard. "Yes, Coach?"

"That show of speed today. Impressive. Honestly, very impressive." He leaned back in his chair. "You need to know, though, speed isn't everything. It's only one part of the game."

I nodded. "I understand. Just wanted to show that I could keep up and add something to the team."

He gazed into my eyes and studied me for a long moment. Finally, Coach leaned forward. He pounded his chest. "Heart of a lion, Novak, but we need to move beyond the speed. You're going to be up against some brawlers that won't hesitate to slam you into the boards… just to prove who owns the ice."

He didn't use the exact words, but he was calling me out for being too small. I winced. "I'll work on it, and I can handle it."

"I don't doubt that, but I want to help out. Speed with smarts is a great combination. We need to work out how best to use your size to your advantage. With excellent skills at anticipating plays and your natural agility, you can make great things happen out there. Think Cole Caulfield, and the great Henri Richard was shorter than you."

"Pocket Rocket," I chuckled under my breath.

Coach grinned. "Yes."

"So, what do you suggest I do first?"

"Focus on your stickhandling and tape-to-tape passes. With your wheels, you could be deadly on the rush. Work on your one-timers too—I want you to be a threat in the slot on the power play. I saw you jawing out there with Quinn. See if he has a fewtips for you. Next, get to know a few of the veterans and study how they read the game. There's a lot to learn from them."

I straightened my spine and lifted my chin as I met Coach's gaze. "Got it. You can count on me. I'll do the work."

"I know you will. That's why I called you in. I see potential. Remember, it's not about proving yourself to your teammates, it's about knowing you're the best player you can be."

"Thanks, Coach. I won't let you down."

***

After I showered and changed into street clothes, it was time to head home. As I strolled down a hallway, I spotted Moose. He walked with his head down and a folder tucked under one arm. Colorful brochures peeked out from inside.

"Hey, Moose!" I called, my voice embarrassingly eager.

He turned, his face lighting up. "Finn! How's Speedy Gonzales today?"

I shrugged and did my best to appear nonchalant. "Oh, much the same, trying to avoid getting squashed by the giants."

Moose laughed, and then he noticed me staring at the folder. He pulled it out from under his arm. "You wondering about this? It's just some… uh, light reading."

I pulled a brochure out of the folder. "Light reading about… marketing the Lumberjacks?"

"Yeah, well, you might as well know." Moose blushed a little. "I'm applying for a position in the front office. Crazy idea, huh?"

I opened my eyes wide, leaning in closer without even knowing it. "Are you kidding? That's all kinds of awesome. What made you go for it?"

He reached up and rubbed his buzzed head. "I don't think I told you. My background's in biology and environmental science, but I've always loved watching sports. I'm a klutz as a player, but I'm an A-1 hockey fan. This job might give me an opportunity to sort of blend my passions. Plus, I'd get to work on showing the world how great you guys are."

I reached up and gave his shoulder a good-natured punch. "You'd be perfect. What exactly would you be doing?"

"The position involves a lot of community outreach." Moose's eyes lit up. "I'd work on events, promo campaigns, and that sort of thing. I could probably even sneak in some eco-friendly ideas."

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