1. You were usually the only girl at hockey camp.
2. And when the coach asked you to break into pairs, the boys always picked you last.
3. Which didn't really matter, because you'd usually leave them in your dust anyway.
4. Discovering shoulder pads specifically tailored for your anatomy changed your life.
5. Though it turned out they still didn't save you from the occasional rocket puck.
6. The pain of getting hit in the crotch by a hockey puck is not exclusive to boys.
7. Not being allowed to check is a total travesty.
8. Getting rid of that "hockey smell" is virtually impossible no matter how hard you try.
9. There are times when your going out look must accommodate your "just got off the rink" look.
10. A pair of skates is far more comfortable than a pair of heels.
11. Expressing yourself with socks is completely acceptable, in fact, encouraged.
12. Being able to do a split without anything "slamming down" is a major advantage.
13. And so is being small.
14. No one will ever doubt your strength once they see you carrying a bag twice your size.
15. Your slapshot is just as fierce as any guy's.
16. ... Seriously.
17. While the NHL may not be in your future, it doesn't mean your dreams can't come true.
