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**brickwall35** · 10-27-2023, 07:20 PM

The SHL is a great way to experience hockey: you get to custom make a player, build their skills however you see fit, get drafted and signed to a team, and even manage a team. But when it comes to the management side, it does seem that there's one aspect that doesn't see too much action: player movement. It's rare to see players traded in the SHL, aside from corpses and tanking teams selling. And even rarer do we see players leave their team to test free agency. So with this new player, my goal is quite simple: play for as many teams as possible. How do I accomplish this? Simple. I only sign 1-season deals, and (if possible), not return to a team I've already played for. Now I know some GMs will see this and think "well, why would I want to draft a player who is only going to stay for a season?" That's a fair question. And I'd encourage GMs not to waste a high-value pick on me. But there's still value in acquiring me, if only for a season. I am an active locker room presence, and would be a great fit for a team looking to bring some life back into their locker room. I'd also make a good fit for a team who's just a piece or two away from really contending for a Cup. I'll also add that teams who give me a chance early in my career will have better odds at reacquiring me, if finding a new team isn't possible. To any SHL GMs reading this: if you draft me, I will have a handshake deal with you to not sign an extension with you, but to sign with you once my four seasons are up in the J. This will allow me to actually be a free agent in the SMJHL, something that is practically unheard of (note: I'm assuming this is legal and not some form of tampering; if it isn't legal, ignore and HO yell at me). This might all be just considered annoying and not worth GMs time, which I hope isn't the case. I hope GMs view this as a fun way of getting to explore a usually untapped aspect of managing, without having to worry too much about the personal and fun side of the league getting in the way (no one wants to trade away their friends, I get it.) In the J, I'll simply be requesting trades to move between teams.

So then, what will Journey Man look for in potential suitors? Man is about the 3 Cs: Championships, Checks, and Comradery, in that order. Journey Man wants to win, and will go to a contender if given the opportunity. Second to that, Man wants his bag. All else equal, if two teams are trying to bring him on, Journey will follow the money signs. Lastly, JM is looking for good teammates. He wants to enjoy his time wear he goes, before traveling onto the next place.

Looking forward to starting this Journey; reach out if you have any questions!