RFTP 2

I have been asked about the reason for the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics flag over my right shoulder.

Back in college, I played goaltender for the Fresno State Ice Hockey Team. One day, one of my best friends (and best defensemen I had), showed up to practice with a small USA flag on the back of his helmet. The next day, the majority of the team had them. So, to piss them off, I painted my helmet red, put CCCP across the front and a hammer, sickle, and star on the back. My teammates freaked. But, I did my job, I took them off of their game and no one scored.

Several weeks went by and this same best friend shows up in a USA practice jersey. I let it go for a short time...But, I had a plan. First, I got a Soviet hockey jersey. Second, I got a red goalie bag [these things are big] and put the same designs as my helmet onto the bag. Third, I got the flag you see. And finally, I signed up this friend for a one year subscription to Soviet Life Magazine.

Practice the following day was hysterical for me. Everyone on the team was angry and especially my staunch, ultra-conservative best friend. Little did he know of the monthly surprise coming in the mail. But each month, this magazine would show up at his door and practice was funny again.

So, the gist of the flag is that it is a beautiful memory of college hockey and the utter disgust and anguish of teammates. It is now, also, a collector's item.

I still have that helmet, too.

Do you want to play?