Mile High by Liz Tomforde

Mile High by Liz Tomforde

Mile High by Liz Tomforde explores the complex relationships and personal growth of professional hockey players navigating life on and off the ice. The story follows the protagonist, who reflects on his past rivalries and friendships, particularly with Eli Maddison, as they embark on a new season with the Chicago Raptors. Themes of mental health, family, and the challenges of professional sports are woven throughout the narrative. This contemporary romance appeals to fans of sports fiction and those interested in character-driven stories about resilience and camaraderie. Readers will find a rich exploration of the emotional struggles faced by athletes, making it relatable for anyone who has dealt with personal challenges.

Key Points

  • Explores the friendship and rivalry between hockey players Scott and Eli Maddison
  • Addresses themes of mental health and personal growth in a sports setting
  • Set against the backdrop of professional hockey with the Chicago Raptors
  • Highlights the importance of family and support systems in overcoming challenges
,
  • newtopiccyclegrowin
165
/ 527
“I
1
ZANDERS
love road games.”
“I hate road games.” Maddison pulls his suitcase out of the back
of my Mercedes Benz G-Wagon, my newest purchase, before
shrugging on his suit jacket.
“You hate them for the exact reason why I love them so much.” I lock
my car, throw my keys in my bag, and take a deep breath as Chicago’s crisp
fall air fills my lungs. I love hockey season, and this week is the start of
hockey season on the road.
“Why, because you have girls lined up waiting to see you in every city
we visit? Whereas the only woman I want to see is my wife who is here in
Chicago with my daughter and newborn son.”
“Exactly.” I pat Maddison on the shoulder as we enter the private airport
entrance here at O’Hare International.
We show our IDs to the security before being let out onto the tarmac.
“Did we get a new plane?” I stop in my tracks, cocking my head at the new
bird with our team logo on the tail.
“Seems like it,” Maddison absentmindedly adds, looking down at his
phone.
“How’s Logan doing?” I ask in reference to his wife, whom I know he’s
texting right now. He’s obsessed with her. He’s never not texting her.
“She’s a badass, man.” Maddison’s voice drips with pride. “MJ is only a
week old, and she’s got his schedule down.”
No surprise there. Maddison’s wife, Logan, is one of my closest friends
and probably the most capable person I know. They’re my only friends who
have kids, but their family of four has become my extended family. Their
daughter calls me Uncle Zee, and I refer to their kids as my niece and
nephew, regardless of the lack of blood ties between us. Their dad is my
best friend and practically my brother at this point.
Which wasn’t always the case.
Eli Maddison was once my most hated rival while we were growing up.
We were both raised in Indiana, playing travel hockey for two different
teams. He was the golden boy who got everything he ever wanted, and it
annoyed the shit out of me. His life was perfect. His family was perfect, and
mine was anything but.
Then he went on to play for the University of Minnesota while I played
for Ohio State, and our childhood rivalry turned into a heated five years of
college hockey. I had some family stuff going on at the time, and I took all
my anger out on the ice. Maddison ended up being the recipient of my shit
when I threw him into the boards with a dirty hit early in our college years.
I fucked his ankle up enough to pull him out of his sophomore season and,
subsequently, the NHL draft.
Ironically enough, I also had to sit out my sophomore year, thanks to a
few classes I was failing.
He hated me for it, and I hated myself for a whole lot of other reasons.
Then I started going to therapy. Religiously. I worked on my shit, and
by our senior year, Maddison and I were the best of friends. We still played
for different teams, but we respected each other and found common ground
through our mental health struggles. He dealt with anxiety and panic
attacks, and I dealt with so much bitter anger it would result in panic attacks
simply because it would consume me, blinding me from reality.
And as fate would have it, Eli Maddison and I landed on the same team
here in Chicago, playing professional hockey for the Raptors. This season is
the start of my seventh pro year, and I couldn’t imagine playing anywhere
else.
Which is why I need to make sure I get re-signed when my contract is
up at the end of the season.
“Scott, did we get a new plane?” I ask one of our team managers,
walking ahead of us.
/ 527
End of Document
165
You May Also Like

FAQs of Mile High by Liz Tomforde

What are the main themes in Mile High by Liz Tomforde?
Mile High delves into themes of friendship, rivalry, and personal growth, particularly within the context of professional sports. The narrative highlights the importance of mental health, showcasing how the characters navigate their emotional struggles while pursuing their hockey careers. Family dynamics also play a significant role, as the protagonist reflects on his relationships with friends and family, emphasizing the support systems that help him cope with challenges. Ultimately, the story illustrates the resilience required to overcome personal and professional obstacles.
Who are the main characters in Mile High?
The primary characters in Mile High include Scott, a professional hockey player, and Eli Maddison, his former rival turned close friend. Their relationship evolves throughout the story, reflecting their shared experiences and personal growth. Scott grapples with his past mistakes and the impact of his actions on Eli's career, while Eli deals with his own mental health challenges. The supporting characters, including their families and teammates, enrich the narrative, providing additional perspectives on the struggles faced by athletes.
What is the setting of Mile High by Liz Tomforde?
Mile High is set in Chicago, primarily focusing on the lives of professional hockey players as they navigate the demands of their sport. The story captures the excitement of hockey season, including the camaraderie and challenges faced by the team, the Chicago Raptors. The setting also highlights the contrast between the players' public personas and their private struggles, creating a rich backdrop for the exploration of themes related to mental health and personal relationships.
How does Mile High address mental health issues?
Mile High thoughtfully addresses mental health issues through the experiences of its characters, particularly Scott and Eli. Both characters confront their emotional challenges, including anxiety, panic attacks, and the impact of past traumas. The narrative emphasizes the importance of seeking help and the role of therapy in their journeys toward healing. By portraying these struggles authentically, the story aims to destigmatize mental health discussions, particularly in the high-pressure world of professional sports.
What is the significance of the title Mile High?
The title Mile High carries multiple layers of significance, reflecting both the literal and metaphorical aspects of the story. It alludes to the high-altitude setting of Denver, a nod to the sport of hockey and the challenges faced by the characters as they navigate their professional lives. Additionally, 'Mile High' symbolizes the emotional highs and lows experienced by the characters, particularly in their relationships and personal growth. The title encapsulates the journey of overcoming obstacles and reaching new heights in both sports and life.

Related of Mile High by Liz Tomforde