TheWeeklyGrind

Some time ago I decided I was never going to get a tattoo.  Even though I’ve thought of the limitless inspiration that I could use for a design to imprint on myself, whether it was for artistic purposes, personal meaning, rebelliousness, or some dumb decision made at a lollapalooza festival or thinking that Sublime was reeeeallllly cool man.. at some point I decided that this statement, this one personal thing that I would do for myself would be manifested in my design of a goalie mask. 

This wasn’t a decision that I took lightly so I did pretty extensive research.  I contemplated getting my Eddy Pro mask refurbished, but the years of wear and tear (plus the fact that it was so old it would no longer be certified and the padding looks like it’s a biohazard) I decided that I would take the plunge and pay up for a new mask.

I had a vision for what I wanted.  Growing up I admired the older designs of goalie masks, the type of design you could tell what the design was even from far away, large logos, simple designs without a lot of minuscule detail that looked like it was airbrushed from a tee shirt shop at the Jersey shore.  Masks like Andy Moog’s Bruins bear, Cojo’s, Sean Burke’s Devils mask, Mike Ritcher’s NYC Statue of Liberty, goalies that were inspiring to me.  

My honeymoon to Japan had a prolonged effect on me.  I never have been to a place more beautiful or inspiring, especially in Kyoto.  The day we went to the Tenruy Temple, it was pouring rain.  But I’ll never forget the memories, the inspiration, the feeling of being transported somewhere in another time.  I wanted to combine the block prints of the waves from mount Fuji (the sea is also another inspiration to me) but when I saw these demon icons sitting outside of the temple walls I knew I had found what I wanted.  

I went to a variety of goalie stores, tried on masks, but nothing really gave a great fit, nothing felt personal.  Then I went to the goalie barn and met with Matt from Promasque. I never have put on a piece of equipment that felt so balanced and fit so comfortably before.  I knew I found what I had wanted and the shop that could come through on the design as well.  

You can see the proof for yourself.  I’m pretty happy with this, what is says about me, and where I am in my life.  But that statement is my mine and you if happen to be on the opposing team trying to score against me,  you might just find out what that statement is…