2001 IIHF World Junior Championship

Breaking News

Team Canada Update: Dec. 24-26, 2000

Christmas holidays are a little different for Canada's National Junior Team. On December 23rd, the team skated in the morning and then experienced a grand old Canadian tradition : a shinny game on an outdoor rink near the hotel where the team was staying. Players and staff took part in the game and, as the tradition requires, it was followed by a hot chocolate for everyone.

On Christmas Eve, the team left Stockholm, arriving in Moscow early in the afternoon. Once through customs, the team loaded the van and passenger bus with the luggage and hockey equipment. The team skated once in the Luznicki Minor Sports Centre. The rink is next to the very Luznicki Ice Palace where Paul Henderson scored in 1972 as Canada won the Summit Series against Russia. The players and staff retired to their rooms early following a long travel day.

On Christmas Day, the team practiced over the lunch hour and the energy level was on the rise. With the first game on the horizon, many forgot that it was Christmas Day. In the evening, there was a gag gift exchange that had everyone laughing pretty hard.

Canada's first game was on Boxing Day against Belarus. Without an opportunity to see them ahead of time, the Canadian side is wary of this team as they are produced by a system designed for the Russians. They will be skilled and could cause Canada problems if they aren't taken seriously. The team is looking forward to getting started.

For more information:
André Brin Director, Communications | Directeur, communications