Rivalries, inside and out.

[Jayhawk 93]

Words: 584

 

Rivalry by definition is competition for the same objective or for superiority in the same field. By that definition, all of the VHLM is a rival for the Mexico City Kings. Over the last few seasons, the Rivals for Mexico City have changed. Last season it was the eventual champions, San Diego. One team that seems to offer Mexico city regular issues is the Houston Bulls. I would also be remiss if I didn't mention Las Vegas, a team that often has something to say as Mexico keeps stepping on them. 

But through all these different rivals, some rivalries are a little closer. As in, same locker room. If you've ever actually entered the Kings' locker room you wouldn't think much of it. Smiles, jokes, and everything an outsider would say is key to team chemistry. While this is true, there is also a pegboard in the Locker room with updated stats. Stats like league leaders in Points, Goals, Assists, and more. The internal competition to be the top is there, though not flaunted in your face. 

Points leader Captain Nugget will often have a smirk as he walks past the board.  Tim Riggins and Grizz Tazzo are in serious competition for the overall points leader. You may even overhear the random Captain Nugget comment about leading the other two.  You may even overhear Riggins's re-buddle about leading the league in Goals. Tazzo is no slouch either, he sits in the top 10 in all 3 categories. 

Remember the definition of rivalry, competition for the same objective or for superiority in the same field. There is no doubt in Mexico City that the Objective is the same for everyone, Win games, Win the championship. Simple right? However, superiority in the same field, that is where things change. Who doesn't want to be "the guy"? Who doesn't want to be the king of the hill, the leader of the pack, the Alpha among the rest? The best of the best do. Mexico City has 3 in the top 6 in points, 3 in the top 10 in Goals, and 4 in the top 10 in assists. Their top Defensman is tied for first in points among Defensemen, they have Captain Nugget at #1 overall in points, Riggins at #1 overall in Goals and Hat-tricks this season ( he has 6). Grizz Tazzo leads the team in Game winners and sits 5th in the league, in almost every category you will find one or 2 Mexico City Kings battling it out with the rest of the league. That includes those within their locker room. 

Mexico City has proven it can battle its rivals in terms of teams. They have shown they can battle together and put their ambitions aside for the greater good.  The question remains, as the season comes to a close and the stats get tighter and tighter, How will the internal rivalry take form? Will they continue to stand as a united front, or will the Alpha within these players push them to be a little more selfish? Will Riggins hold pack a pass for a sure goal so he can get one more?  

Rivalries have been a part of life since the dawn of time. In sports, coaches use it to push players harder. However, this tactic can also backfire. Rivalries take on a life of their own, bringing about the best in players, and the worst. Hopefully for Mexico City, the rivalries that will matter the most, are outside the locker room.