My First (Whirlwind) Month

[mmrs617 363]

Matteo Stefano joined the VHLM's Mississauga Hounds midway through S93. Since then, it's been non-stop training. Stefano was on a team that was having trouble finding its groove. They were having trouble stringing wins together, and don't remind him of the onslaught of one-goal losses. Did he help to change that? Well, no, not really, but the team did improve their overall standing by season's end. In the playoffs, Stefano excelled, reaching 6 points in the Hound's short 5 game stint. It can be disappointing to make it that far and still lose out, but each loss was a reminder that there was still work to do, and there will continue to be work to do as long as Stefano plays.

 

Stefano believes that practice makes progress, not perfect. Perfection is an intangible and subjective thing. To him, it's unattainable and undesirable. To feel like you've reached perfection is the same as saying you have nothing else to do, you are without a goal. And if there is nothing to strive for, then what's the point in continuing playing. Maybe you've achieved your personal goals, then set another. It could be as small as one more assist, or play one more game. It could be focusing on leadership and helping teammates build their skills. The point is, it shouldn't be stagnant. 

 

Stefano's goal was originally to join a VHLM team... check. Then to score a few points... check. Then to end the season with a +/- in the positives... check. His latest goal is to be drafted. Does his draft ranking really matter? No, not really. Any draft position shows that a team is willing to take you on and sees your value. So what can Stefano do to show that he has value? Continue training. 

 

Over the course of April, Stefano was ranked first in training hours (TPE earned). He continues to put the hours in since then. The Junior Showcase Tournament was announce and Stefano managed to be drafted to the Steel at #12. On top of this he was named alternate captain. He was honoured by both of these and is grateful that the GMs are seeing his value. He is hoping to participate in the Victory ProAm as well to network the league and hit the ice as often as possible.

 

Ultimately, Stefano's fate lies with him alone. If he wants to continue to reach these lofty goals, he's going to have to put in the work and not get lazy. I'm excited to see what happens.

 

                                                                                                                                            

 

As a side note, I am constantly blown away by the patience, kindness, and comradery shown by every member I have come in contact with since I joined last month. I've had no less than a dozen people offering their help every step of the way. This is all still very new for me, but having an amazing community makes it so much more fun than I could ever even imagine. For that, I thank you all. I can't wait to see what Stefano's (and my) future hold.

[Banackock 8,143]