Looks like Ryder King is going to give Blaine Mitchell a run for his money as the biggest playboy on the hockey team.
Before I hear something I don’t want to hear about Libby, I head down the hall to Coach’s office.
“Come in, Donato.” Coach Andres gestures for me to close the door behind me.
“I know we’ve only had one real practice, but I wanted to get your thoughts on this season.”
“Honestly?” My eyes meet Coach’s. “I think we have a shot at winning the championship. With the new players, Ryder King being elite, and how much Blaine and Harlan have improved, I think we have a good chance of going all the way.”
“Keep pushing them, Luc,” Coach Andres states, excitement shining in his eyes. “If today is any indication of how the season can go, I think we’ve got a damn good shot too.”
Running my fingers through my hair, my heart pounds knowing how much will be on me this season.
“What are your thoughts on alternate captains?” Coach asks. I knew this was coming, but I’m not ready to give him my suggestions yet.
“I want more time to observe the guys during practice,” I sheepishly reply. I know the decision isn’t mine alone, but I want to make sure I don’t regret who I suggest.
“Two weeks. Otherwise, the coaching staff will make the decision without your recommendations,” Coach says sternly.
“Yes, sir.” I nod and get up to leave.
“Hey, Lucas,” Coach calls to me, causing me to pause before opening the door.
“You’ve got a lot riding on this season, kid.” Coach Andres folds his hands over his stomach. “But don’t forget why you started the game in the first place.”
Chapter sixteen
Laur
My heart beats loudly in my ears. This time with more thrill than nerves to finish the second round of interviews, even though part of my excitement is definitely Libby finally being all moved in. Every time I walk past Bren’s empty room my heart sinks. Having Libby there will lift some of the sadness out of my heart to see the room full again, especially when my best friend on campus lives down the hall from me.
I already finished the first half of the second round of virtual interviews yesterday before in person interviews happen—if they can make it to in person. Truthfully, I’m debating pushing all final interviews to virtual with the larger team instead of in person. Some candidates might live too far, and we did get a late start on interviewing. I don’t want to waste anyone’s time; we only have five open spots.
The final interviews are for the other leads, Libby and Kat, who is the only other senior on the team but not close with our friend group, to flag any issues they see, so my mind will be mostly set on who I want to join the program by then.
To have the most positive end to the sessions, I chose to end interviews with the two candidates that I think have the most potential, Lena and Raven. There is no doubt in my mind that they both will get one of the five spots we have open.
Lena’s interviews went flawlessly. She was bouncing with glee her entire interview, reminding me of Bren’s bubbly mannerisms. She is an absolute yes. Truthfully, I see her being the lead of the program when she’s a senior.
Raven I am on the fence about. She has an extensive background in the fashion world. I’m impressed by the number of events she’s been a part of, especially so young. She’s supported over ten different charity fundraisers, galas, and auctions but it’s not clear to me why she wants to work with a hockey team.
Clearing my throat, I immediately inquire about this at the start of her next interview. I need to know why she thinks working for a sports team would be the right fit for her and why she applied to this specific program.
“Tell me why you want to work with a hockey team.”
Her eyes go distant as if she is no longer mentally in our virtual interview. “I have a family tie to the fashion industry,” Raven explains, her voice quieting. “It’s really helped me get my foot in the door.”
After a beat she continues, still not fully present. “But I want something different.” She twirls her finger around her blonde locks and shakes her head, which seems to bring her back into the present. “I think my experience with the charity events will translate very well.” Her voice grows louder with confidence.
Before I can ask her to elaborate, she continues.Good. She knows she needs to provide more details.
“I am most excited for the opportunity to help drive ticket sales and raise money for the team’s charity focus for the year. I have a lot of ideas on events outside of games as well as events inside of games. I’ll share an example.” She pauses, taking a breath. “A picnic basket auction, which would be a less vulgar way of auctioning off the players.”
My chin perks up listening to her clever idea. Before I joined the team, there was an issue with someone’s stepmom and a player getting frisky when she won the auction for that player.
Elaborating on her idea, Raven explains, “Each player would create their own basket filled with food, drinks, dessert, and some type of activity they love. It could range from crossword puzzles to a board game to binoculars to bird watch.”
My heart slows after skipping a beat hearing binoculars at first, thankful she explained it was for bird watching. This must be what others feel like when I mention my brother’s little black book. It’s harmless and insightful with hockey team and player insights galore.
