CALGARY – As Canada’s National Junior players started day three of the summer development camp, each player was tested by Gatorade as to their individual hydration levels.

All forty-five players attending camp were weighed before practice and had a small white sweat patch stuck to their forehead during their practice.

The players participated in a normal one hour practice, and the sweat patches were removed and an analysis was done by Dr. Lawrence Spriet, Professor at the University of Guelph.

The reports were then given to the National Team doctor, Dr. Brian Benson who presented each player with their individual results and provided feedback as to how much fluid they were losing, how to replenish and stay hydrated, and how much sodium loss they were experiencing during their workouts.

The players, trainers and coaching staff were all educated on the importance of hydration and although most players were rehydrating properly, the test results showed the importance of hydration in relation to elite level performance. Any little edge or advantage over the competition is always a benefit.

» 2007 World Junior Hockey Championship