Hockey is a different game altogether when you think of it in terms of work. Of course there is so much it has allowed us to do that no typical job ever could. There are also some things we've given up in order to live this life. But all in all, the good outweighs the bad in my book.
There are many things hockey has provided for our family that I’m truly grateful for. We’ve traveled the world and have seen places I never would have imagined I’d see. We’re able to enjoy our summers off at home relaxing with our friends and family and not worrying about earning in the off the season. Most importantly though, I’ve been able to be home with Reese and essentially Scott has too. If we were at home, I’d most likely be back to work after 8-12 weeks, just like every other working mom. No other job could ever allow that kind of flexibility for both of us. So we’re willing to make a few sacrifices.
There are, however, a few things I’ve never really given much thought to that are unique to this job. Of course I knew the players wear equipment to protect themselves, I’m not that clueless. I just never thought of where all that comes from and how much it costs. When you think of a typical job, employers aren’t exactly providing thousands of dollars worth of necessary gear to each worker. In hockey though, that’s a must. A few weeks ago, Scott was busy making lists for all different types of equipment for next season. Next year, he’s been given a budget but has to supply all his equipment himself. We’re talking thousands of dollars worth of stuff. I had no clue a stick retails for $200. When you think of how many sticks one player may go through in a season, multiply that number by 24 or so. And that’s just one player on a team of up to 20! Skates, well that figure is even more outrageous. Top-quality professional custom skates retail from $700-$900 a pop. Players usually go through about 2 per season. That’s not even mentioning all the other equipment like elbow pads, shoulder pads, shin pads, gloves, socks, under gear, etc.
The cost of the job is a big one but so are its rewards.
Definitely such a 'pro', the part about being at home with family much more than a normal 9-5er would have. And that skating equipment, yikes bikes! It just keeps creeping up and up in price. Hope ya'll are enjoying your summer at home :) Glad to have a post back from ya!
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