Riga Blog - First few days

[youloser1337 1,111]

You know how in NHL 21 be a pro mode right before your first game in the NHL there is a cutscene of you taking in the moment? That's basically what happened today with me in the VHL. Props to my teammates for letting me have my moment there. I didn't expect to be here and just taking in the sights and sounds of my first game is unreal. Of course if you fast forward and see that I lost that and the next game... it kind of takes you out of that moment. Let's not get there... yet I guess.

 

When I first got to Riga, it was post bronze medal game in the WJC, which I failed to medal in. I didn't get a chance to really let it sink in where I was needed for training camp the next day. The culture shock I had when I got here was insane too. I still don't know anyone or where anything is. I'm usually a lone wolf and I think it might come back to haunt me in my time in Riga. During the downtime in Mexico City I scouted some apartments in Riga so I don't have to worry about it in the future. I'm so glad I did. Being able to get to my apartment on the first day and just relax was a blessing. For a moment I finally found some zen and put all my failures aside from the past few weeks.
Training camp was a nice change of pace for me. I knew what to expect because Riga invited me to their camp last season to get used to it and get me ready for the upcoming VHLM season. That little boost really gave me confidence and I think it showed in my performance with Mexico City. The coaching staff and teammates were all very welcoming to me. I even got a nice chat with the GM who drafted me. We were both excited that I finally made it to the VHL. It was kind of refreshing to see all the rookies so I wouldn't be the only target for rookie hazing. We had a few scrimmages and I did well. I was excited to see where I was placed in the lineup. I feel like I have a lot to prove.

 

Game day was a roller coaster of emotions for me. At first my parents called and told me they were super excited to watch me play. They said they couldn't get tickets but when Riga faces NY they would be there to watch in person. The bus ride over to the arena was also a big shock for me. The thoughts of under performing rang through my head. I didn't want those demons getting to me so I followed my ritual and put my music on.
I wanted to be the lone wolf again after the game. I knew I let the team and the fans down for not producing in my first game. The demons were back and I needed to escape. Luckily a few of my teammates calmed me down and reminded me once I get one, it gets much easier. That first point and first goal are key milestones that every player has when they make it to the VHL. Usually you want it in the first few games so that the pressure is off of you.

 

That was a quick look of my first few days in Riga. Hopefully in the future I can be a bit more positive and have a few goals and points by then. My main goal is the cup and my side quest is the rookie title. I believe I have the skill to get there. I know we have a great team this year!
 

[Hoopydog 195]

Review: This is good piece you've written here mate. It's nice that it's written from the players perspective as it helps everyone get to know what your player is all about. You kept it interesting and they way it's spaced out makes it easy to read and follow along. One thing to add next would maybe be to add some headings to break it up that little bit more but great job. 9/10

 

Also looking forward to playing with you in Riga bud. Hopefully this roster can play at the top of our game and show the league what we are all about

[Callahan 39]

Review: I absolutely loved how it was a first person story and I, too, had the chills in my first VHL game. It was written beautifully and really got your point across after a long time traveling from Mexico City to Riga! I can't wait to keep up with your career Justin! 10/10