First practice was smooth as ICE...

You know that feeling you get when you meet someone for the first time and it seems like you've known them your whole life? That was the feeling inside the dressing room, and on the ice, as the Winnipeg Ice met for the first time as a team. There was excitement in the air, as new teammates introduced themselves to one another, and the energy spilled onto the ice, as the team skated for the first time as a unit.

The first practice of any hockey season yields some level of excitement and energy, but this felt different. The coaches pushed the pace and the players responded. The smiles and laughter on the ice disappeared only momentarily, as the players flew up and down the ice, striding hard and pushing their limits.

A tired bunch met with the coaches after practice, but the energy and excitement remained on everyone's face. They picked numbers and shared nicknames, and laughed even more. A long journey awaits this team, tough times are surely ahead. But, if Day #1 was any indication, this team will stand strong together..TEAM (Together.Everyone.Achieves.More).

Here's to a great start to an amazing season! Go Ice Go!

Oh, and did I mention there were Winnipeg Ice cupcakes? Yes, there were cupcakes...

~Coach