A Clipboard exclusive – we get an inside look at North American Junior hockey through the eyes of Mike Gionta. While playing for the Queen City Steam of the Central States Hockey League, Mike will share his weekly experiences with the Clipboard. He doesn’t mind being called the cousin of Brian or Steve, but on the Clipboard he is Mike Gionta.
It is now the week before I leave. I guess you can say, I am having second thoughts. I am ready to go down there to play hockey, but I am not ready to leave all my friends and family.
I have put so much effort in the off-season this year. I feel that I have improved a great deal and I can’t wait for Friday to come.
I do not have a clue what to expect coming into training camp except to be there at 4:30pm Friday for dry land evaluations . We will be tested on the standing broad jump, which is a stationary two feet jump. Also we will be tested on the 2 mile run, 40 yard sprints, and number of push ups and sit ups completed in one minute.
I am physically ready to leave and go down there to play. This week I am working out very lightly and trying to become mentally focused on the task at hand.
I am not going to lie, I have the thought of being sent home in the back of my mind. This can be a good thing because I like competing with some pressure on my shoulders. It helps me push myself that much harder.
Hockey has changed for me. I still love the game with a great passion, but it is that much more of a business or a “job” as some people like to call it.
I am ready to hit the ice Friday night after dry land testing and just be a mad man out there, and earn my spot. Then the season will begin.
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