Claimed: The lonely life of a backup

[TheMinimum 17]

The lonely life of a backup

Monday, September 11, 2017

 

 

I have joined the Ottawa Lynx for the last ten games, and have been patiently sitting on the bench as I both expected and was told. We have one of the best goaltenders in the league right now, so Ike Arkander fully deserves to continue playing. He has backstopped us to the top of the standings, and I would be the happiest one on the team for him to keep up his gold standard with the Las Vegas Aces now hot on our tails.

 

I would like to play some games too, but the coach told me to sit quietly at the end of the bench. The last time I looked mildly impatient, he gave me a clipboard to keep track of the faceoffs so I could stay engaged during the game. He says he's also getting in touch with the local television broadcast to wire me up during the game, so that I can do colour commentary as well. Looks like I am pulling double duty while only earning one paycheque. I knew there was a reason that the general manager agreed to double my salary without any hesitance! I think I should work harder in practice... Oh, and also I would like to thank my wonderful teammates for the prank in my first game. It is actually not a league rule that rookie goaltenders have to keep their helmet and mask on for the entirety of the game, even when on the bench.

 

Actually, maybe this is all a conspiracy and the coach just wants to play the hot hand as we are in a heated battle for first place. Arkander is leading all statistics by a large margin, and I was sure that my presence would light a fire under him and push him to better heights. Unfortunately, it seems like his performance has dipped since I joined the team. I would like to offer my full support to our starting goaltender, but also say that I am ready to step in and give him a well deserved break to rest up for the playoff run. I have been told by the captain to be ready to be called upon at any time, and am eagerly awaiting that opportunity.

 

Since I know Arkander is much more talented than me, when I get the opportunity to play, I will focus and concentrate on playing my own game. If I play with the mental burden that I will have to match Arkander's standard, it might actually cause me to play worse. As long as I try my best and give it my all, the team will fully support me and also give it their all for the win.