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)


Grogu stands at the blue line, shuffling his weight from skate to skate as the national anthems play. He doesn't really pay much attention, as a Norwegian-born player he finds the ritual of anthem playing somewhat silly, but traditions are traditions. Speaking of Norway, he was part of the bronze-winning team at the recent IIHF. The small taste of success has left him wanting more, hungering for bigger victories. He glances down the blue line, he foresees big things from his linemate Duncan Mackenzie - they were drafted together, joined the team as rookies just 2 seasons ago, now in their third season he knows the time for excuses is over, they are going to need to step up this season as the team looks to get back into the playoff picture. He's never played a playoff game in the SHL. But he knows this season will be different. He's more confident, more sure of himself. The noise from the crowd grows, and Grogu feels the adrenaline in his system rising. He's trained hard this offseason, working on his stickwork, his shot, making his stick become one with his body, the way a light saber is for a jedi. He breathes in deeply as the anthem comes to a crescending close. The teams line up at center ice. The goalies nod they are ready. The ref skates into the circle. The puck is dropped and HERE WE GO!!!