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Referee's Lament (standard:poetry, 364 words) | |||
Author: Tony Dungate | Added: Feb 18 2009 | Views/Reads: 2819/0 | Story vote: 0.00 (0 votes) |
A Hockey Referee's Reality | |||
In a city called Toronto nestled around a famous great lake I was a middle-aged man who in the winter did skate When young, hockey did I play, now I skate in white and black Without me and my kind there would be no game, that is a fact An annual clinic I take, preparing for a new season to begin No matter the outcome, 100% respect from the fans I never win When certified the tournaments do arrive, and I start to work New rules and emphasis I apply, still end up as the “Jerk” Skating from end to end in freezing cold always without bias Who wins doesn't matter and is never important to any of us Three periods a game, and multiple games I skate throughout the season Seen rookies get undressed after two periods, which is all part of the fun. How many penalties each team receives I don't count and matters not to me Although sometimes teams think make-up calls are part of their entrance fee Season is long and sometimes I lose sight of my professional way Obligated for my digressions to take the hit and do ultimately pay As I go down, an unwritten rule exists, as the crowd always does cheer On-ice partners lick their lips in anticipation for their next free beer I give everything I have for a game's that's fun and safe for all to play Aches, pains, and sprains don't prevent me from starting over the next day. In the end I skate for exercise, camaraderie and sheer love of the game As I hang up the skates, take a seat and look back, I will know no shame As the game ends, shower, change and pack my bags a few bucks richer Knowing one day my arm may not allow me to pour from the pitcher Those who forsake their nights, weekends and holidays at the local rink I salute your annual perseverance and devotion with a tall cold drink So the next time you go to the rink and have a beef you'd like to share Use your time, energy and courage to skate in his place; if you dare! Tweet
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