Escaping RiverCreek

Chapter 12

Chapter 12: Hard-Hitting Playoffs

The regular season has ended for the RiverCreek Beavers. They've gained the number two-spot in the state playoffs, which take place in St. Paul. After they arrive in the city, the team, coach, assistants, and chaperones settle into their rooms, and the boys head off for practice.

"All right, boys, this is our year, our time, our championship to bring home!" the coach screams, trying to get the team excited.

"Yeah."

"Our time."

"Champions," the boys yell over top of each other, heading out to the ice.

Stopped by the entrance onto the ice, they get a glimpse of the team they'll be facing in the first of four rounds. Cory has already researched the entire bracket.

"The Minneapolis Minutemen, a private school. Take a good look, guys. They're smaller but faster than most of the teams here."

They make a hole so the opposing team can leave the ice. The Beavers take part in a stare-down as each team tries to get the early advantage in intimidation.

"You all aren't making it this year. Minutemen rule!" one of the taller players announces, getting into the face of the team captain.

"You're about to go home in body bags," Cory replies, stepping up and bumping chest to chest with the opponent.

After only a single scoff at the threat, the Minutemen player trots off for the locker room.

"Hey, bring it in!" Cory yells once everyone is out on the ice.

"No mercy this year. No showing off. We do what we do best: hit 'em hard and score fast. We don't have Frankie this season, and we still came in tied for first, but we were forced into the number-two spot. It's our time, gentlemen. We've earned it. Beavers on three ... one ... two ... three!"

"Beavers!" the team cries out, heading out to warm up for practice.

Taking time to watch parts of practice, Cory takes charge to make sure a new tactic works this time around as a surprise in the final game, should they make it there.

"Remember, speed is only part of the equation this time. Watch your hits. Don't be a puck hog. Defense stay ready with three. We've been practicing this all season," the coach calls out and stands in the box, observing the changes he's witnessed all season in Cory.

"You know, Leo, I wonder what's gotten into him? He's not the same soft-hearted player we've known. Look at him, taking charge out there. Tenacious and cunning. Something has finally pulled that fighting spirit out, and that might just be enough to take us the distance."

Leo, the assistant coach, lifts his head from the clipboard to view the practicing players.

"Yeah, Rob, you may have a point. I know he's been through a few rough patches over last few months. He might be using his pain to take it out on the ice. Sounds familiar to you back in the day."

The coaches stand there, allowing the kids to run the rest of practice. It gives them time not only to work hard but have some fun toward the end of their scheduled time on the ice.

"Five minutes left. Let's call it gentlemen. Time to get a good night's rest. We have the second game tomorrow morning. Come on, let's go RiverCreek!" The coach goes over opening the doors for the team to walk off the ice.

After getting cleaned up, Cory takes off to explore St. Paul. Alone, he walks along the sidewalks, soaking in everything he sees.

"This is what I can expect getting away from home. I forgot how big this place really is," he says to himself, gazing up at the high-rise buildings and corporations.