Ball Hockey PlayHer Spotlight – Georgine Paulin
Editor’s Note – Newer BTSH players may not know that BTSH was actually founded by a woman (hi SB!) and that the co-ed nature of the league has always been at the core of our identity. Ball Hockey PlayHer is a new set of articles on the ORG designed to highlight the contributions of the female players in BTSH. If there’s a woman on your team who you feel isn’t getting the recognition due to her, please e-mail the ORG or talk to one of our correspondents so we can set up an interview.
Georgine Paulin has long been a fixture of BTSH but last week she pulled off a very notable feat. Georgine managed to notch three goals against the Riots. Hat tricks (or as Georgine’s Bruiser teammates like to call them “Fancy Hats”) are rare in this league and we decided to find out how Georgine transformed from street hockey amateur in to a dominant offensive force.
When did you first start playing hockey?
I think this is my 6th season. I had never played prior to BTSH.
What’s your athletic experience outside of BTSH?
I was never really an athlete. My parents made me play girls’ softball for a couple of years in middle school. I played 3rd string catcher (everyone had to play 2 innings) or that field behind first base (right field? you know, the one that nobody hits to.) It was extremely uncomfortable but I showed up for every game and looking back, I guess it made me stronger. I just wish they had made me play hockey! In high school, I was a cheerleader and ran track. Now, I still run, played a little broomball and I’ve been going to Cross Fit for about 2 years, though I still can’t do a handstand push-up! I did a little coaching through the park’s department this winter.
What makes your team special?
Ha! I think that we’re so laid-back, yet competitive. We all want to win, but it doesn’t ruin anyone’s day if we don’t.
What’s your best street hockey experience?
The first goal I ever scored was pretty special. The opposing team (Mexican Standoff shout-out!) knew it was my first goal so some of them low 5’ve me. That says a lot about the league! Last Sunday’s hat trick was so crazy. I’m still relishing that one and probably will be for a long time
What’s one thing we should we know about you that we don’t?
Back before I was a real estate agent at Corcoran, I was a pharmacist at Walgreens. I somehow managed to convince the conservative Walgreens execs that we needed to put a float in Chicago’s Gay Price Parade. They agreed, and it was an incredible experience. I even got to march; in my cut-off jean shorts and knee-high Doc Martins. Hot!