Brett Harrison, a first-year pro hockey player, found himself in a predicament when he wanted to make chicken and pasta for a pregame meal. Like many professional athletes, he was accustomed to having his meals prepared for him. However, living with his roommate Mason Lohrei during his time with the AHL Providence Bruins presented a new challenge.
Lohrei, an experienced cook, was lounging on the couch when Harrison shared his cooking plans. After getting Lohrei’s approval, Harrison faced his first hurdle – how to boil water. The simple task stumped him, prompting him to ask Lohrei for guidance on the basics of cooking pasta.
Transitioning from amateur to professional hockey comes with various adjustments, including the importance of proper nutrition. NHL teams, like the Minnesota Wild and Boston Bruins, prioritize providing players with nutritious meals to fuel their performance. For young players, who often have higher caloric needs than veterans, learning how to cook and eat well can make a significant difference in their careers.
While the routine of playing games, practicing, training, and sleeping may remain consistent for players, the responsibility of cooking for themselves can be overwhelming. Players who have relied on billet families or team-provided meals may find themselves at a loss when it comes to preparing their own food.
For players like Brett Harrison and Trevor Kuntar, who have limited cooking experience, the transition to cooking for themselves can be daunting. Unlike Kuntar, who learned cooking skills from his father, Harrison had to rely on his roommates for guidance in the kitchen. With the help of Lohrei and fellow roommate Frédéric Brunet, Harrison gradually learned how to cook simple meals and gained confidence in the kitchen.
While it may be tempting for young players to rely on takeout and delivery services, the importance of preparing homemade meals cannot be overstated. Cooking at home not only saves money but also allows players to control the quality and nutritional content of their food. By learning basic cooking skills and experimenting with different recipes, young players can develop healthy eating habits that will benefit them both on and off the ice.
In conclusion, the journey from relying on others for meals to mastering the art of cooking is a valuable learning experience for young hockey players. With the right guidance and determination, players like Brett Harrison and Pavel Zacha can navigate the challenges of cooking for themselves and ultimately fuel their success on the ice.
