The Russians are coming, the Russians are coming, is all the parents of the Wood River Ice Cats have heard for the last month.
On Dec 17th the Wood River Ice Cats from Glentworth played the Russia Atlant from Moscow, Russia.
At 4 pm the charter bus rolled into Glentworth and the excitement escalated in the small town. The team of 15 players, 5 coaches and the very important interpreter stepped off the bus with great enthusiasm to the meet the Ice Cats. The game started at 6:30 with a crowd of roughly 200 people who packed the rink to catch a glimpse of this young Russian hockey team and as well the Ice Cats that had hopes of a major upset.
Both national anthems were sung while two local figure skaters carried the flags. The puck dropped and the game was under way. The crowd was not to be disappointed with the fast pace and excellent stick handling.
Russia came out on top with a score of 9 to 2. After the game both teams spent the night at the Glentworth hall. They had fun getting to know one another and exchanging gifts each team brought for one another. A pancake breakfast was served the next morning and it was time for the girls to get back on the bus and leave for the next stop on the tour.
What an impression they made on this young Bantam team and the Town of Glentworth. The tour included stops at Swift Current, Weyburn, Bethune, Balgonie, Springside, Moose Jaw and Estevan.
The opportunity to host such a game was made possible by the partnership between the Saskatchewan Hockey Association and Athletes in Action. Local sponsors donated a variety of things which helped with the expenses.
The Russians came and the Russians may have conquered but the memories and experience the girls took home will be with them for a lifetime.
Submitted by Jolene Sinclair
