What challenge does Saul face when he asks Father Leboutilier to teach him how to play hockey? How does he solve this problem?

Initially Father Leboutilier tells Saul that he is too young and small to play hockey. Saul askes to be able to clean the ice and help with equipment. Saul practices in secret. When a player is injured during practice, Saul volunteers to play for him. Initially the other boys laugh at small Saul but once he plays, they make room for him at the boards: they accept him. Father Leboutilie sees Saul's inherent talent right away.