Olympics: London 2012

It is official! I will be heading to London this summer as a part of the US Hockey Team. It is an indescribable feeling. I have worked extremely hard to make it to this point, but I know there is still work to be done before we first step foot onto the blue "smurf turf" pitch in London.

I dreamed of this moment as a little girl. My first memory of the Olympics and all it's glory is from the Atlanta Olympics in '96. Those Games were so close to home and so inspiring for so many reasons. I vividly remember the US Women's Soccer Team winning the Gold in penalty kicks, their achievement inspiring me to do the same. To be able to play on the world's highest stage, but more importantly to represent your country is a dream come true. I've always gotten chills every time we hear the National Anthem played before games. Every single game I have played in the red, white, and blue uniform has been incredibly special to me. I am representing something bigger than myself; I not only represent my country, but those who have come before me who have so proudly worn it, and those who will inevitably come after me.

So although the Olympics only come around every 4 years, I have been training for this moment my whole life. I came up just shy 4 years ago and it has been a battle everyday to push even harder and make myself better. I must say though that I wouldn't have been able to get to this point without a lot of people's support. First and foremost: MY FAMILY. I cannot  thank them enough for every single thing they have done for me over the 25 years of my life. There is no doubt in my mind that I wouldn't have made it here without their support. From driving me to practice, to traveling to away games, to keeping me fueled, to the encouraging words when I was down. They've been there through thick and thin, and I am so excited for them to share this Olympic journey with me!

I must also thank all of my coaches and teammates. They have pushed me to work harder and have taught me so much over the years. They have helped to shape the player that I am. And I must also thank my friends. I'd like to think I have the best ones around! ;) haha... but their support and companionship has also helped to keep me grounded and keep everything in perspective. When I have a rough day, they constantly remind me how lucky I am. So thanks for that!


With that being said, it's back to work we go!! There are 46 days left to go before the Opening Ceremonies of the 2012 Olympic Games in London! Please keep following and supporting my teammates and I as we venture to do what no US Hockey has done before: win GOLD.