Today marks the first day of training camp for the U.S. Women’s National Team ahead of the 2019 IIHF Women’s World Championship, set to take place in Espoo, Finland, from April 4-14. For the full tournament schedule click here.

WELCOME TO NEW YORK
Players and staff converged on Long Island, New York, yesterday (Tuesday) for five days of training camp at the Northwell Health Ice Center, the New York Islanders practice facility. Players arrived in New York from far and wide – nine different states to be exact – and from a mix of different teams from the NCAA to the NWHL and CWHL. Nine players took leave from their college campuses to join Team USA, while 14 postgraduate players join the squad following the conclusion of their professional season.

BREAKING THE ICE
Players hit the ice for the first time today, the only day of camp that will feature two on-ice sessions. Practice consisted of some flow drills to get the legs moving and get the team reacquainted with one another, and then wrapped up with some fun games.

GEARING UP
After the first practice this morning, players and staff geared up – literally – for the upcoming tournament by picking out all their new USA Hockey apparel. Players are usually all smiles on apparel day, one of the most fun traditions ahead of a major tournament.