This past Dec/Jan the EMHA U15 Nordic Team had the incredible opportunity to explore two of Northern Europe’s most captivating capitals: Helsinki, Finland, and Stockholm, Sweden. Each city offered a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making this trip an unforgettable experience.
The team played 4 games in Finland against Espoo where we quickly learned that Finnish hockey places a premium on defensive structure, fast-paced play, and physicality. The Elmvale Coyotes came out hungry for each win and walked away with scores reflecting just that. The final scores ended up as 15-0, 4-1,6-3 and 6-2 which left us undefeated but also showcased the players ability to adapt and overcome unique challenges travelling brings to the game.The players and families then boarded the Sija Cruise Ship on a trip across the Baltic Sea.
The next morning the Coyotes were headed straight to the rink in Stockholm Sweden. Värmdö was our next opponent and met us with the warmest of welcomes. Hockey parents and players from this center were awaiting our arrival with warm drinks, Swedish cookies, candies and a bbq lunch. The players dressing rooms were adorned with New Years decorations and healthy snacks for each player. The warm feeling of hospitality and excitement filled the cold air as we geared up to play two more games. Unfortunately, Varmdo was a tough opponent and they were able to sneak in the wins resulting in a 7-4 and 3-2 loss for the Coyotes.
The next day the Coyotes travelled to two different centers Jarna and Farsta. These centers also went out of their way to make sure that players and families felt welcomed and at ease. Jarna offered delicious baked goods and Farsta prepared a traditional meal for parents and players to enjoy. Elmvale played a great game against Jarna and won 6-0. The game against Farsta ended as a 3-1 loss but the score did not reflect the hard work shown throughout the game by all the players.
While in Stockholm the Coyotes welcomed in the new year in the center of the city watching an unforgettable display of fireworks. We visited Old town in Gamla Stan, the Vasa Museum and the Avicci Experience. The cobbled streets and colourful buildings captivated our hearts and will forever be etched into our memories.
Special thank you to our Platinum and Gold Sponsors:
- BMR Pro
- Hardship Acres Landscaping Inc.
- Duivenvoorden Haulage Ltd.
- Robinson Haulage Inc.
- Barrie Eye Care
- Century Masonry
- Innovative Automation
An additional and heartfelt thank you to our silver, bronze sponsors and community partners and supporters and all those who helped with this event over the last two years. We are extremely grateful to have had this experience and could not have done it without each and every one of you.
These young players will continue to share their memories and carry forward the spirit of this kindness that they have been shown by this incredible community.
Author: Chrissy Forigo
Team pictured with the Varmdo, Sweden team December 31, 2024
