Rustlers women’s hockey headed to europe

The Lakeland Rustlers Women’s Hockey team is getting ready for a trip of a lifetime.

The team will play six exhibition games in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, leaving just after Christmas.

Head Coach Morgan Mann couldn’t hide his excitement about the opportunity.

"We’ll play six games in 10 days in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria," said Mann. “Switzerland has one of the best women’s pro hockey leagues in Europe.”

Meanwhile, the players will face tough competition, with many opponents older and more experienced.

“It’ll be exciting to see how we match up against them,” said Rustlers forward Asha Petrie. “For a lot of us, this could definitely be an opportunity for the future.”

After a trip to Arizona last year, this opportunity opened up for the team to take the once-in-a-lifetime trip.

“I expect our team to become even closer after this, with an even stronger bond,” said Mann. “This trip is a chance for the players to improve their skills and experience a new culture.”

Additionally, Petrie is looking forward to the trip and playing higher level teams all over Europe.

"I think just being there and being grateful that we get the opportunity to go as a team, just kind of seeing how we match up against them," said Pettrie. "Then maybe that'll open doors for some girls to go play there afterwards after their post-secondary is all done."

Mann stressed the team’s growth as a key focus.

“I expect our team to become even closer after this,” he said. “Traveling together creates such a strong bond.”

Both Mann and Petrie see the trip as more than hockey.

“It’s a chance to grow, learn, and experience something truly special,” concluded Mann.

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