Ondrej Vencko's rookie experience

[Mutti 193]

When I first ever laced up my skates, I couldn't even imagine where I'd end up. And now I'm here in the VHL, the best league in the entire world. It is a huge honor to be part of this amazing experience, especially with a team from my homeland of Czech Republic, the Prague Phantoms.

 

I did have to wait for my rookie experience a bit, as I dealt with some personal demons that held me back in my development. A lot of my teammates from the VHLE and VHLM are already kicking ass in here but I needed some 'extra time in the oven'. But that doesn't matter, as now I am finally here and my first season is already over. 

 

Man, what an experience it was. 

We, Phantoms are a rebuilding team, which means that I didn't really expect to go on and win a Continental cup in my rookie season, no matter how epic it would be and how blackout drunk I would've ended afterwards.

Nevertheless, I think we pulled of an amazing season in terms of our team progress. This is further embraced by the fact that we managed to steal some big wins and both me and Amir recorded a shutout!

We got used to each other in the locker room pretty quickly and we're also building up a strong chemistry on the ice. Guys are future MVPs for sure!

 

I also gotta give a huge shoutout to aftermentioned Amir Redzic @Slav_Sloth who showed me how things work around here and what to expect from thr game. It was an honor to be this man's backup. And, with both of us having Slavic blood flowing in our veins, you can imagine that we had some wild celebrations following our shutouts.

 

I'd also love to thank our GMs @Tetricide @Plate for giving me a chance, even though I caused some tough times for him for sure, referring to the time when I didn't even know if I'm ever going to start in the VHL. I am so glad and forever grateful that he didn't give up on me. He gave me tons of advices and even more motivation to be the best goalie I can be.

 

As for the analytics, I think I did alright. In 10 games that I played, having 4 wins, 2 losses and 2 OT losses is all fine in my books. Of course, those losses make a bit of a stain on my resumé but.. Having .935 save percentage and 2.37 GAA alongside these game stats makes me really happy and content with myself.

But, only future will tell how well things will go. I am ready to lock in and shut the net.

 

Let's go, Phantoms!

 

453 words for week ending 11/24/24