Chapter 40

Once we got back to the arena it was time for the trick shots and other events to start, I am only really here as a physiotherapist today as I know am fully qualified in case anyone gets hurt, however, that soon changed.

“Gill, come on, show everyone your skills on the ice, we want you to try out these shots.” shouted Jordon and suddenly everyone was cheering me on to have a go.

Although I mess about with the guys on ice and sometimes fill in when playing practice games I do not have near the same amount of skills that these guys have but hey I am game to give it a shot, the only thing putting me off was the fact that the media were filming everything.

I got myself padded up and headed on to the ice. I did the tricks and actually was pleasantly surprised at how well I did. I even managed to score a couple of goals past the Detroit goal tender Chris Osgood. Chris, or as he is more commonly known, Ozzy and Marc-Andre were the chosen goal tenders for the All Stars Game.

“Well done Gill, you have been excellent. We all agree that there should be an award for you”. Ozzy tells me as all the lads all gather round.

“And what would I get an award for Ozzy?” I ask sarcastically.

“We don’t know yet, probably biggest contribution to a team, you are such a good support to us all and we know that the Pens guys all think so highly of you especially Sid of course” he says laughing. “You are very highly respected throughout the whole NHL so we all want to take this opportunity to thank you.”

At that moment he handed me a small gold and silver box with a small white bow, “what is this?” I hear myself saying sheepishly as I take the box from Ozzy. I couldn’t believe the praise I was given, I was embarrassed and pleased all at the same time.

“Just open the box Gill, I have heard that you always need to ask questions, just trust us.” Ozzy replies with a cheeky laugh.

As I opened the box I looked around the boys who were all standing smiling at me. I looked inside the box and suddenly felt my eyes sting with tears. There shining back at me was a gorgeous gold necklace with a diamond hockey stick pendent hanging from it.

“Wow guys, what is that for?”

“Because we all think so highly of you and unfortunately we have no way to convince the NHL to give you an award so we wanted to give you something. We got these especially made for you. They are from all of the All Stars players although we know a lot more people who would like to thank you too.”

I felt a tear trickle down my cheek as I stood and listened to Ozzy who seemed to be nominated chief spokesman.

“Thanks guys, I appreciate it. You are all too good to me, it has been a pleasure working with you all this weekend.” One by one they all came and gave me a hug and thanked me for being there. Sidney was last to approach me and he held me until I had cried enough. “I love you Sidney” I said into his shoulder as I held him close, “I love you too Gill”.