The excitement is really starting to build for the Memorial Cup as the Chiefs arrived here about 1:30 p.m Pacific Standard Time yesterday (May, 14).

The team flew out on a charter flight at around 10 a.m. (PST) - and I have to tell you, if you've never flown on a charter, then try. It's like having an entire airplane to yourself. The team really had the feeling that they had hit the big time.

Normally, the team is getting ready for a lengthy bus trip, but it was nice to pack the bus for a jaunt to the Spokane Airport instead. The team spent most of the flight sleeping, talking among themselves, or just listening to music or watching a movie. I meanwhile played cards with the coaches and staff. We played hearts, and while I won game one, I was soundly beaten in game two.

We had to cut things short to land, but I had just shot the moon, so things were looking good until my chances of victory were dashed by the fasten your seatbelt sign!
When we landed, there were tv cameras, and all sorts of people from the community to greet us. Clearly this tournament is a newsworthy event here. There are "hosts" for the team - on and off ice - even police motorcyle escorts for the bus!

The team dropped gear at the rink and looked around the Kitchener Auditorium, or the Aud, as it is affectionately known around here. The Aud was built in 1950 with its first game in 1951.

It is eerily reminiscent of the old Boone Street Barn in Spokane. The first thing I noticed was the banners of all the great players who played there in their junior career. Hall of Famers Billy Barber, Larry Robinson, Paul Coffey and Scott Stevens among others. I think the Chiefs will like playing here a lot.

The team relaxed last night, but today is all business. After breakfast, it's the first practice here before Saturday's opener with Belleville. The intensity will be high on the ice tomorrow.

3 Comments

chiefs20167 said:

Thanks Mike. Look forward to reading you blog during the Memorial Cup Tournament.

Make sure the boys know that all of here in Spokane are there with them in spirit, no matter what happens.

Bring on the Cup. GO CHIEFS GO!!!!

May 15, 2008 5:59 AM

Tracie Matheney said:

Go Chiefs Go!!! Thanks to Comcast we will be able to watch you play!!! So, we will be cheering loudly just like you were here at the arena. We know you will make Spokane proud!!

May 15, 2008 9:55 AM

Cheifs Fan said:

Thanks Mickey for BLOGging the experience.

Anybody else notice that both Mentor and Mentee are 4 or 5 games away from claiming the Cup (Stanley and Memorial). Wouldn't that be something...

I'd Like to correct Mss. Matheney, Spokane already IS PROUD !!!!

Way to go Chiefs...Victory is yours...Now go Claim it!

May 15, 2008 11:56 AM

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