breakaway

When you’re on the breakaway, the real work is just beginning.

Sure, you’ve got the rush of adrenalin on your side that comes from the initial realization that there’s nothing between you and the goal now but your amazing stickhandling self. 

But if you’re anything like me, this state — this sensational moment of mightiness — is when you’re most vulnerable to an attack from your greatest foes.

Doubt, anxiety, and fear.

Like a sweaty line of defenders, they really turn it on when I’ve got a clear shot at the goal.  And usually I slow down for a second, tempted to look back to see how close they are. 

But this time  —

This time I won’t.