FIRST PRACTICE

Team USA took to the ice in Obihiro for the first time on Friday, skating for two hours and adjusting to the new rink that it will skate on for the duration of the tournament, both in practices and games.

Following practice, the U.S. squad headed back to the hotel for lunch and some rest. The team will resume practice tomorrow, along with headshots and the team photo being taken prior to taking the ice.

WELL REPRESENTED

The Under-18 Women's National Team roster contains players from all different parts of the United States. This year's roster includes 12 forwards, eight defenders and three goaltenders that represent 15 different states. 

Minnesota leads the pack with five representatives, followed by New York (4) and Michigan (2). In addition, Alaska, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas each have one.