United we Search

[jacobcarson877 2,135]

The air was cold in the arena, lights dim, the smell of musty sweat wafted out of the change rooms where dozens of unnamed goaltenders awaited their opportunity to prove they could fill the shoes of the great Jesse Teno. One by one they skated onto the ice, their every movement analyzed and documented by the London United’s newest goalie coach. All of it mattered, from the way they tied their laces, the symmetry or lack thereof of their pads, and the smoothness of their skating stride. The youngest, most inexperienced players got their spotlight first. The ice was the smoothest for them, but despite their spry figures and their pristine environment, none could handle the precise and thunderous shots from Molly the Cat, Leonard Triller, Wann Kerr and Sjin. They couldn’t track the movement of the swirling figures, couldn’t square up to the ever-changing angles. There was a cold rage somewhere in the building, a silent blade eager to exact revenge.

 

The established goalies took to the ice, some familiar names got their chance to play god for the day. Each of them wanting so desperately for the all so rare shot at the Continental Cup and the opportunity to secure their legacy. The dozens were quickly narrowed down to a select handful, and they took to the ice a second time to begin the real tryout. Two full units took to the ice, past and present United played their part in securing the future of their franchise. Everyone who comes into this building understands that this was built by those who came before us, and that everything we do is because of them, and for them. It is our calling to pay that forward to the future. The game begins and the intensity rises. Quick shots out of the gate pull our goaltending prospects out of their heads and into the moment. A chip in off the glass, a hard hit in the corner. These players were not messing around, this was playoff hockey. Game 8 was underway, and the United were united in their understanding that they could not lose this one.

 

A slick pass to the slot and a one-timer tearing towards the top of the net. Quick blocker save, deflected into the corner and cleared out of the zone by Jack Jeckler. Every save counts, and the new goaltending coach was quick to note the skill displayed. Just as quick the puck was back in the zone, a cycle ran by Lloyd Braun. Up the half-board to Brad Marchand, behind the net to Ben Dover. Around the boards to Hunor Solyom. Igor Molotov big and brooding in front of the net. Solyom takes the shot, deflected by Molotov out front! Time slows, the goaltending coaches eyes zoom in on the puck. Initial save off the right pad, puck dangling out in front. This is it, this is the moment that matters. Ben Dover swings around the net, batting at the loose puck. Second save off the outstretched pad. Five hole wide open. Molotov gets his stick down and shovels it through. Glove behind them, flipping onto their back the goalie makes an incredible save. Puck frozen, whistle blown. Teammates come over and tap their sticks in appreciation.

 

“That’ll work” says the goalie coach to GM Jacob Carson.

 

Jacob turns, “You would’ve smothered the initial save Jesse,” a faint frown forming on their face. “And we are replacing you after all.”

 

And so he skates out onto the ice, whistle tweeting. The players would go home and get some rest, and the search would continue tomorrow. The list narrowed, but the goal seeming more impossible as time moves on.

 

How can you replace Jesse Teno?

[Triller 1,431]

An extremely tough position to fill and that isn't even taking into consideration the one that came before.  Are any other VHL tendies willing to take up the mantle?  Are any even capable?

[aimkin 918]

You almost made me shed a tear. 

[Banackock 7,772]

51 minutes ago, Triller said:

An extremely tough position to fill and that isn't even taking into consideration the one that came before.  Are any other VHL tendies willing to take up the mantle?  Are any even capable?

I know of one @jacobcarson877