Quote:Written Task: Tell me what's going through your players head at this last moment, seconds before their first shift after a long off-season. Are they nervous? Excited? Maybe stressed? Are there specific people or moments that come to their mind? Do they need to settle down in a moment like this to play their best? If so, how? Or are you the type of player with ice in your veins that thrives in exciting moments like this? (150+ words)

Rafael knew that after a long off-season, that being back to play on ice was still a nerve wrecking experience, there was no doubt in his mind that this would continue to be the case. His appearance in the SHL had been one which he thought overdue after having decided that he would stick with the J for a season longer after his contract had ended. This was big boy and girl territory and his absence had been something which was for him to internally worry about. Performance was key and he was keen to impress his new team, Edmonton Blizzard, after having been taken on by chance for his first season with the SHL. It is a challenge but a challenge in which he ultimately is excited to face; training has ramped up in his spare time with the lead up to his first shift after being declared a free agent. Rafa could hear the crowd, he could hear the excitement building up and he could feel his foot bouncing up and down beneath him as he glanced out into the bright lights and the rink. It's an opportunity that might not come again and he's urged to make the most of it.

(205 words)