Jets’ defenceman Flood finds strength in faith
WINNIPEG, MB—It has not been an easy year for Mark Flood. The 27-year-old from Charlottetown is a member of the National Hockey League's Winnipeg Jets, but you might only know it if you attended practice everyday.
Considered "a solid, NHL defenceman," by Jets head coach Claude Noel, Flood still can't crack the lineup on a regular basis. Although he's with the team and practices every day, he's played only 31 games this season and while he's been quite good every time he's suited up (he has three goals and four assists), he still can't crack the coveted Top 6.
Mark Flood is a grinder, a reserve, a guy who earns every dime of his NHL salary. But it would be impossible to do what he does every day without a lot of support.
And plenty of faith.
"It's always tough not playing," Flood said one afternoon in March, after a particularly tough practice. "Especially at times like these when we haven't been winning and we're fighting for a playoff spot.
"But I feel I'm lucky to be playing for such a good team with such great guys. This is a good team, it's young and we'll get better. Sure, I want to be in the lineup every day but I know what I have to do and I have a great support system. And, yes, my faith plays a role in staying upbeat and confident and helps me stay ready when the opportunity to play arrives."
Flood is not a rookie. A former member of the Manitoba Moose, he's 27 and is no longer a prospect. If he's ever going to be an NHL player, he'll know soon. Still, he hasn't given up hope.
"I definitely haven't given up the dream," says Flood. "I know I'm starting to get up there in age and I know time is running out, but I love to play and I'll just keep working hard and try to take advantage of any opportunity I get."
Flood was raised a Catholic and grew up attending St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church in Charlottetown. To this day, he still goes to church whenever he can, but when you're on the road as often as he is, it's not always easy. That's why he spends a lot of time attending the Chapel led by Jets team pastor Lorne Korol.
"I'll get to church with my girlfriend from time-to-time, but it is difficult," says Flood. "For the most part, we all try to take part in Lorne's chapel. He comes in, gives us a service and it's a good change of pace for the guys.
"But my faith plays a huge role in my daily life, my preparation for games and for staying in the moment, not worrying about not playing but being thankful that I am part of an NHL team. In tough times, I've always looked to my faith and it's helped me more than anyone can imagine."
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