When I started this hockey business, it was with one goal in mind: to not be scared, to take a deep breath and do whatever it was that was asked of me. My history in sporting activities has always been marred by an incessant need to bitch "this is too early, my back/leg/whatever hurts, I'm tired, I can't do this, I'd rather be on the couch eating Cheez-its and watching Mannix" until it was time to go. I was NOT going to do that with hockey.

And so far I haven't. At a recent practice, my favorite coach pointed out the team whiner, who is constantly griping that something hurts or that she is too tired to practice/play a game/whatever. My coach is annoyed by this woman because of the whining and now that I'm aware of her whiner status, I can see how annoying that is. It was a stark reminder of my goal and even though I was completely exhausted from that crazy practice on Saturday with those slave driver NHL guys, I kept going through that practice and went on to play well in a game.

All without whining (aloud).

In my life, I am most proud of having started this hockey business and followed through with it despite being 27 and flabby when I started. Now I'm almost 29 and less flabby but still playing at least 4 times a week, which is 3 more than the Whiner plays.

A co-worker was going through all of the Olympic sports she would've been suited for and lamenting that it's all past her now and she could never start anything at this point in her life. You don't have to be an Olympic hopeful to start something new, there are places for everyone out there, from the top of the medal platform to the 3rd line on an in-house league. Get out there and take your spot!