A hockey club near my new home would cut my commute, but my old teammates see switching as disloyal. How do I choose?
Sports"After five seasons, you're leaving for our rivals?" my teammate asked. I'd mentioned that the hockey club near my new flat was looking for players.
My old club is now about seventy minutes away by car. The other club is a twenty-minute walk. I made most of last season's trips, but a late training finish could mean getting home near midnight. Nobody moved the club further away; I chose the new home.
I like these teammates, and their disappointment matters. I also want a version of hockey I can keep fitting around work. The nearby club plays in the same local competition, which makes a practical move feel like taking a side against my friends.
I haven't committed to either squad for the new season. What would you weigh before deciding, and how early should I give the old captain a clear answer? I'm willing to hear what staying would involve, but I don't want loyalty to become an indefinite promise to keep driving the same distance.