Monday Inspiration - The Rookies

Newcomers in almost all sports have to go through a pretty rough "welcome" period. These rookies already have a ton of stress and pressure to get through - better competition, faster performance, larger (and louder) crowds, and increased physical demands. So why are opposing players in particular so hard on rookies?

Connor Bedard (hockey) was the first draft pick in 2023 and jumped right into the NHL at the age of 18. He was welcomed by cheap shots, rough treatment, and lots of abuse by opposing teams. Why? Do they think they are doing him a favor by making him tougher while thousands of new fans turn up to watch him play?

Even our own beloved pickleball can be harsh on newcomers. Had a successful career in tennis did you? "Well wait til we get you on the pickleball court and we'll teach you a thing or two" seems to be the prevailing attitude.

So women's professional basketball (WNBA) is currently reaching unheard of heights in attendance, TV eyes, and overall publicity - all because of the arrival of number one draft pick Caitlin Clark. Clark has been sensational in her debut, where she is being called the most transformational force in women's basketball in generations. She is deadly with three-point shooting, and the assists I watched her deliver in her last game were all highlight reel material on their own. Simply an amazing player and the best thing to have ever happened to the WNBA. And what is her biggest challenge? Getting out of the way of vicious physical attacks on the court. Wow.

Amazingly enough, Clark refuses to participate in the controversies, and is adamant that she will let her performance on the court tell her story. Wise beyond her years, and truly an inspiration for anyone in similar situations. Well done Caitlin.

See you on the courts.

Michael Gauthier
​NDY (Not Done Yet)