Today was a very big day for all campers. In lieu of the afternoon on-ice sessions, the annual Northern Edge Cup games were played. See updated photos at Pictures
Ronald McDonald returned to the rink today to drop the first puck at center ice. Both games were very exciting and high scoring. Both age groups played very well. They were so excited! You would have thought they were playing for the Stanley Cup! Hats off to all the boys for working so hard.
During the morning off-ice sessions, Curt Leich taught the Belarusian kids how to play American football. For most, this was the first time they had played it. They really had fun with it and caught on quickly.
Press, again.........
The Northern Edge - Belarus Hockey Camp was in a local paper again today. It featured images of Todd Woodcroft and Todd McLellan. It was a very good article on how the Belarus Ice Hockey Federation and Northern Edge work together to develop young talent within Belarus. Curt Fraser's image was also featured on the front page providing notice that he would be holding a press conference tonight to discuss the Belarusian Nationals Team.
Entertainment......
Last evening, several of the boys were treated to a traditional Russian Banya. In a real basic sense, I understand it is some type of sauna treatment that can be really refreshing. One of the host families has a second home out of town. They treated some of the boys to a barbecue where they collected specific types of wood for the grilling fire.
The Ice Federation has arranged a day tour for tomorrow of an actual WWII battlefield (I believe it's called Stalin's Line). We've been told it has been meticulously recreated to make it appear as if the battle were today. Kids and instructors will be participating in the tour. The kids are really excited about seeing this important piece of Belarusian history. Activities are also planned for Sunday that will keep the kids busy. Some have indicated they may go fishing and others may do paintball. These will depend on whether formal activities are being planned by the Ice Federation.
A new tradition is born......The Coach's Cup
Tonight, the Northern Edge instructors and Ice Federation representatives went to an Iris Pub for dinner (the only one in Minsk). Todd McLellan stood up and expressed how all hockey camps have traditions and that he wanted to start a new one for the Northern Edge - Belarus Hockey Camp. He presented Todd Woodcroft with the "Coach's Cup" (see photo). This cup will be in Todd's care and must travel with him. Next year, Todd will have the honor of passing it on to a different coach at the camp. The names of each recipient will be recorded on the cup for posterity. Todd McLellan presented this tonight since he departs Belarus on Sunday.
Many thanks to Vladimir Tsyplakov, Curt Fraser, and Todd McLellan!!!
If you've read through the posts, you already know that we are very fortunate to have Vladimir Tysplakov, Curt Fraser, and Todd McLellan assisting with the camp this week. Their combined talent as both professional players and coaches has been invaluable. They have been so good with the kids. The kids were just thrilled to be sharing ice with the pro's. As this week came to a close, Vlady, Curt, and Todd were busy signing autographs on jerseys, hats, shirts, etc! Thanks a million! The fact that Todd Woodcroft was able to get them to participate is testimony to how well Northern Edge is thought of in the industry.
Baxter....
Baxter, if you are reading this, please tell Kelly that Brad says "hello"! (Todd's way of being funny).
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