ice hockey

Last night I played ice hockey for the first time ever!  A bunch of Kristie’s labmates play in this Yale Grad/Pro league/clinic, and Kristie has been playing with them since May.  Kristie gave it a strong endorsement, and I was intrigued at the prospect of trying a new sport, so I ordered a bunch of equipment online, then on Saturday we went to Whitie Benson’s (what a name for a hockey and lacrosse shop…) to finish stocking up.  Altogether, the requisite gear includes shin guards, large tube socks, chest and shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, the puffy shorts, a jersey, helmet, and of course a stick and skates, plus a duffel bag to carry it all.

When we arrived at the rink at around 8:45 last night, I hadn’t skated in ages, and probably only a dozen or so times in my entire life, so I was worried about sucking.  After warming up, however, I felt like my skill level was on par with most of the other beginners, but I was severely hampered by a pair of hand-me-down skates that were too tight and really hurt my feet.  I had to take frequent breaks from the drills, although I did manage to participate in the full-rink scrimmage.  By next week I should have new skates, as there is some kid who supposedly has a used pair that might fit me better.  And if not, I can always go back to Whitie’s.