A guy known only as Raphael jumped on the ice during a Montreal Canadiens practice and shot a puck at Jose Theodore. He was in full hockey equipment and just wanted to show off his skills by scoring on a great goalie.
This guy is a freakin' hero to thousands of us schlubs who had the heart and determination but lacked the talent to play at an elite level. As a kid I used to dream about playing pro baseball and hockey. Just once I wanted a chance to try and steal a big league base, track a ball down at the warning track, dish off a pretty pass to my winger or take a shot at an NHL goaltender. Who amongst us has the balls to go for it, in spite of obvious talent deficiencies. Who has the courage to lace up the skates, put on the uniform, pull on the helmet, jump the boards and take that shot? Raphael did.
There are those who watch, those who sport a blue tutu, and those who actually take a shot. There's a little Raphael in all of us. I just wish he scored.
