Page 13 of Dreams
“But how do you do it? There are so many guys trying to make the team right now.”
Josh smiled, flashing back to his very first camp. He’d had a similar conversation with Olle, who was now the captain. He gave him the best advice he’d ever gotten.
“This is what was told to me at my first camp and they’re words to live by.” Josh paused, trying to recall the exact words. “Be the hardest worker out there. The most willing to drop down to block a shot. The first to jump into the fight. Keep your feet moving and your head up. Don't take stupid penalties. Don’t worry too much about scoring. The chances will find you if the rest of your game is solid.”
“Okay.” Carter breathed out slowly, looking more freaked than before.
Josh put a heavy hand on his shoulder. “You’ll do fine, kid. You know how to play this game. You’ve been doing it your whole life. Just play your game. Now let’s see what you can do with a puck on your stick.”
He skated away to grab their sticks and a bag of pucks.
Carter was an adequate puck handler, but he’d get better. Josh watched patiently and gave him a few adjustments. They spent the better part of an hour on the ice before hitting the showers and going to grab a bite to eat.
Josh genuinely liked the kid and wanted to see him in the locker room come opening night. All he could do was work with him and hope for the best.
