Real-Life Decision Making
In the middle of a hockey game, players don't have time to stop and
consider what they should do. They have to make game decisions immediately.
The players learn the principles of the game and then must be prepared to
make lightning-quick decisions under immense pressure with fans
screaming in the background.
"Hockey is not a stop-and-go type game where you have set plays like in
football, baseball and basketball. In hockey, you're interchanging players
on the go, while the play is going on," says Peter Anholt. Anholt is a former
coach of the Red Deer Rebels hockey club in the Western Hockey League. "You're
reacting to different strategies that other teams are making on the go. It's
a much quicker game and decisions have to be made much quicker than in other
sports."
These aren't the only decisions hockey players have to make. They
also have to make decisions about everyday things and long-term second career
choices.
You're a professional hockey player. The season is under way, and
you're one of the star players. During the season, the players have to
follow strict rules. Curfews aren't negotiable, and late night parties
are prohibited. In fact, Coach Ramsey can usually tell when a team member
stays out too late, because his performance the next day is lacking.
Several of the players have got into trouble lately, and their escapades
have even made the news. This is quite damaging to the team's reputation
with the fans. Coach Ramsey is now on a rampage. Rumor has it that players
will be suspended for any misconduct in the future.
Despite this threat, some of your teammates are throwing a party. They
figure that it's an off night with no game or practice scheduled. Plus,
Coach Ramsey has gone out of town on family business and won't find out
about the party.
You want to go. Some of your old college buddies will be there, and you
haven't seen them in years. Plus, your team has worked really hard and
is in the middle of an exceptional season. You figure you and the team deserves
a chance to celebrate.
What are you going to do?