【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. with flying colors /wɪθ ˈflaɪ ɪŋˈkʌl ərz/ (idiom) – very successfully
Example: The student graduated with flying colors.
2. top-notch /ˈtɒpˈnɒtʃ/ (adj.) – first-rate, incomparable
Example: The top-notch player of the team received the MVP award.
3. draft /dræft/ (v.) – to select somebody to be part of the team in order to do something
Example: The rookie was drafted to be part of the big team.
4. coveted /ˈkʌv·ə·t̬ɪd/ (adj.) – very much wanted by many people
Example: The coveted prize was given to the veteran player.
5. backup /ˈbækˌʌp/ (n.) – a person that can be used if help is needed
Example: The backup player did a great job replacing the injured player.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere [zhahn si-BAS-chuh n ZHEEG-geer], also known as “Jiggy,” retires with flying colors after 16 National Hockey League (NHL) seasons, winning 262 games, a Conn Smythe [smith] Trophy, and a Stanley Cup championship.
Team Executive Joe Sakic [SAK-eek] commented that Giguere was always a top-notch goaltender. For the three years that he was in the Colorado Avalanche [AV-uh-lanch], he provided veteran leadership and stability in the game. They gave best wishes to him and his family.
The announcement was made in Quebec [kwi-BEK] while Giguere was with the Blainville-Boisbriand [blan-VEEL bwah-bree-AHN] Armada hockey team. He is also a part owner of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Squad.
Giguere was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in 1995 and played eight games with the team from 1996-1997. In fact, he was the last active player to have played for the Whalers. In his 597 regular season games, he posted a record of 2.53 goals against average and 38 shutouts.
The highlight of his career was when he played for the Anaheim Ducks. It was when he led the team to two Stanley finals. The first one was in 2003, during which they suffered a defeat. Despite the defeat, Giguere was awarded the Conn Smythe trophy for being the league’s top goaltender. Then, in 2007, the team finally got the most coveted Stanley Cup.
During his last seasons, Giguere has been a backup to Semyon Varlamov [SEM-yon VAR-luh-mov]. He also mentored and looked after the talented rookie Nathan MacKinnon, who lived with him during the entire season.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· What do you think will be the effect on his team Colorado Avalanche now that he has retired?
· What can be the possible profession for athletes like Giguere after they end their sports career? Explain your answer.
Discussion B
· At what stage do you think a veteran player should retire? Explain your answer.
· How can seasoned players be used to train new ones?