And the countdown begins...

Last night was the last practice for the 99s in the US....and excitement filled the rink for the players, while a little anxiety filled the room where the parents met. Last minute paperwork was completed as well as a last minute Q&A with Coach Savoie.

On Sunday evening, players and parents found out which teammate they would be housed with and the name of the billete families. Many Jr. Shark families have taken the opportunity to communicate with the Quebec families - finding out about their player's billete moms, dads and siblings;  what kind of jobs they have, bedroom situations and so on. Communication from the billete families brought questions regarding players' favorite foods, allergies and other likes/dislikes. All good things as each side prepares for the big meeting tomorrow evening.

Today is dedicated to packing. Hockey bags will need to contain Jr. Sharks jerseys, 2 pairs of away/2 pairs of home hockey socks, jocs, underarmour, practice jersey/sock (just in case it is needed), an extra duffle bag to transport items to/from rink/home, helmet, shoulder pads, elbow pads, and all the normal hockey garb. The suitcase, which we all hope will be a small one and weigh less than 50 pounds, will need to hold winter gear (the gloves, hats, snowpants, boots) as well as the clothing, socks, underware and the toothbrush/toothpaste (hoping our players remember their daily hygene while we are not there to pester them).

Jusqu'à demain. Au revoir.

(Until tomorrow...good-bye)