“It’s heavy.” “It’s hot in here.” “I’m sweaty.” “My pinky toe hurts!”
A group of 10- to 12-year-olds is forming a line — or at least trying to — as they adjust to the view from beneath their hockey helmets. Struggling to stand on skates, they wait to step onto the rink, each one wearing a brand-new set of hockey gear from head to toe. For most, this is their first time ever on skates.