Friday, February 25, 2011

Day 4, 5, 6

After a few losses, take the time to re-group and focus on the positives. We're playing against the srongest teams in Canada, and with the exception of a few second period frustrating moments, we're holding our own. Dig deep PEI, we have yet another challenge today, facing off against Manitoba again.

When you feel like you can't give anymore, close your eyes (as long as you're not on the ice) and listen to the support behind you. If that doesn't motivate you, I'm not sure what will!

Win, lose, or draw, we're going to play like champions! (Nicole Corcoran, quote # 321)

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Oh What a Day 3!

Our schedule on Day 3 was very structured, up for breakfast at 7:30, over for a half hour practice afterwards, a little quiet time before and after lunch, then a big game at 4pm. We had meeting with each player before and after practice, to calm nerves, talk about last night, and set goals for the game.

We knew the game would be tough physically, we had some challenges with staying out of the sin bin, but when twenty girls can play with determination, intensity, a sense of urgency, and with a calmness and focus at exactly the same time, good things happen - a 5-2 win!

Great job today girls, you made a lot of people - especially your coaching staff - very, very proud.

To follow this performance with a spectacular Dance-Off was another impressive feat that Team PEI, well, did some damage. It's good to know that our athletes have so many layers of ability, that they can play hockey, ace their academics, look good, AND dance like a re-make of Fame! (Google it, it was a good show at the time).

You never cease to amaze us Team PEI!

Monday, February 21, 2011

Day One and Two

Arrived in Halifax on Saturday, 19 February. Bus ride was fun, Women's Hockey and Synchronized Swimming sharing the motor coach. Lots of laughers, some sleepers. Group sing song to Justin Beiber as we pulled into the hotel.

Our team was reunited when we arrived, as our four players who are away were already at the hotel.

That afternoon as the girls had a little free time to explore Athlete's Village, the coaching staff set up the dressing room, putting each girls gear in the player stalls, hanging up jerseys. Then we surprised the girls with a professinal looking dressing room. Took some time to read the well wishes - emails, cards, notes sent from home. Some the girls knew about, a lot of emails had been forwarded to me and was a surprise. We've posted these in our dressing room, the girls have a gigantic display of support everytime we leave to go on the ice.

After this, we went around the room and shared our artifacts we had taken with us. Artifacts are the items we've taken that show why we're here. It was funny, emotional, and a real reminder of who we are as a team. Something I'll never forget as a coach!

Day 2 - very structured. Practice in the morning, a little down time in the afternoon. Game time in the evening. Playing in the Metro Center is VERY cool, (in spirit, not in temperature!) the girls were a little nervous, but overall played well. We lost 4-1 to Nova Scotia, but the play was much closer than the score indicates. Our goalies were incredible - Hayden played the first half, Catherine the second. Each made saves that were TSN highlights-worthy. We've learned some lessons from Game 1, and will practice some techniques Day 3 in the morning to ensure Game 2 is better.

Lots of support - emails, pats on the back from fans over here for the week. And the food is pretty good, too...

Friday, February 18, 2011

One more sleep...

So here we are Canada Games Eve! Hope you're packed, mentally prepared and raring to go! Have a great night's sleep, see you all in the morning!

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Three More Sleeps...

For some of you (who shall remain unnamed to protect the innocent, yet fortunate) another day off of school! Use your time wisely my friends! Check out the website to see how our fellow athletes are doing in Week One competition. Send an email to your CG roomie and see what you need to bring... speaking of which....

What are you going to bring?
We'd like you to bring an artifact that shows what you are bringing to the CG. It could be a picture, a note, the puck from the first goal you scored in a national championship (that's mine, but you can use it too) etc. Be prepared to present your artifact to your teammates - why you brought it, what it means to you, to the team. You will be bringing it home with you. If you have any questions about this, just email Robyn.

Have a good day!

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Four More Sleeps!

As you enjoy what could be your last storm day before Canada Games, take a few minutes to take care of some items on your "To Do" list:

-check over your gear (especially your helmet and skates!)
-re-pack your gear bag
-air out your gear first (please!)
-organize your undergear (make sure you have enough for a few days of no laundry, just in case)
-make a list of what you need to bring (walk out clothing, sweatxedo - Brandy's word, it's awesome), and as many of your hockey PEI shirts you can find!)
-spend some time on your mental training: goal-setting, visualization, relaxation techniques
-say "Thanks" to your parents (it's always a good time to suck up, just a little)
-drink some water
-drink some more water

Have a great day!

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Sunday ice time cancelled

Tonight's Canada Games Alumni vs. Canada Games Present game has been cancelled, due to poor driving conditions.

Please remember to foward your quotes and early hockey pics before or on Thursday!

Once again, happy shovelling!