Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in hockey. Eric Normal didn't get to the pinnacle of the hockey world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for seven grueling sessions one time each hour, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his abdomen in three places. But this didn't stop him. He seems even more determined to excel at his sport.
"I was really down when I broke my abdomen, and then my squirrel died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my brain. It took twelve decades to get back in shape. But to win at hockey is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my pair of flip-flops and forget about Tyler, my squirrel."
Wallace, his cousin, moved with him to Montenegro to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Clio, in their smooth motor home, where she still labors as a ship's officer to help pay for Eric's expensive training.