The End

As most of you know we have finally returned back to the United States! Sorry for not keeping posted the past couple of days--we had a very busy schedule traveling to Amsterdam and then eventually back to the US. The trip was so amazing though!

Amsterdam was quite the experience--everyone really got to go off on their own and do what they liked. However, the entire team visited the Anne Frank house Tuesday morning. As we walked through what she called "The Secret Annex", we were a bit disturbed yet very informed about the struggles that the Jewish communities went through during WWII. After this visit we were all aloud to go off on our own for lunch and do whatever we pleased for the many remaining hours of our last day on the trip. Everyone did things such as shopped, walked to the famous I AMSTERDAM sign, or went to Heineken factory. This Link is a video of me and a few teammates that--despite the embarrassment--I decided I would share with you.


We also played our final game against another excellent Dutch team (big surprise!) Although, we were unable to notch a win we had broken through and scored the first goal. Our team was also very kindly complimented and respected by the opposing team and their Coach when we joined them for drinks and snacks after.

Yesterday was our big travel day and it ended up being quite eventful. Our first flight seemed to be going smoothly until we arrived in Heathrow and they couldn't seem to find steps for us to get off the plane. Some of us suggested that we slide down the emergency exits because it took so long. Eventually they got us off the plane only to have security hold us up. Finally we got through and sprinted to our gate, weaving in and out of people up and down the escalators. The gate was technically closed by the time the majority of our team had gotten to the plane but Janelle managed to get everyone on board safely.

Now we are safe and sound at home in the US and as you can see by my excessive energy at 8:30 in the morning, extremely jet-lagged once more. Overall the trip was AMAZING. We saw so many great things, made countless memories that will be cherished forever, and learned SO much from the Dutch hockey players. I know we are all very excited to bring our new skills to the NCAA next fall, so everyone better watch out! GO BEARS!!!



-Bitts



<3 UCFH

The place where Germany, Belgium, and Holland meet

Day 8

Yesterday was somewhat of an emotional day for us here in Holland. Not only was it our very last day in our little town of Valkenburg, but we also paid a visit to the American WWII Cemetery. This cemetery, found in the village of Margraten, is a gift from the Netherlands in honor of the American soldiers who collectively fought to help liberate Europe. 
As we all walked through the perfectly groomed green grass, we observed the unsettlingly large amount of headstones (which was approximately 8,301). We also paid our respects to the soldiers who valiantly fought for freedom and justice across the World. Some of us said a prayer in the chapel located in the tower, in honor of these soldiers.

"Here we and all who shall hereafter live in freedom will be reminded that these men and their comrades we owe a debt to be paid with grateful remembrance of their sacrifice and with the high resolve that the cause for which they died shall live"

On a happier note, we all got to experience something that not many people can say they have done! We were in three places at once--literally. We visited the point where Germany, Belgium, and Holland all meet. Some of us fearfully traveled up to the top of a tower that had an amazing view at the highest point in Holland.

After enjoying a group lunch we traveled back to Valnkenburg for some fun activities! After luging down a large hill a few times, close to all of us ziplined down from the very top of a church tower. We then had a "friendly" match of laser tag, where Julie aka "Slasher" had the most hits at 25000 points with Rachel, "Kryptonite" in a close second. Although I unfortunately don't excel in laser tag I was only in fourth to last place as Joel took dead last! Its okay though, because according to him he was the "sacrifice".


After a long day of activities we all had dinner together at the hotel. Then we were able to enjoy a generous amount of free-time which we spent roming the streets of Valkenburg once more. Knowing we were leaving for Amsterdam the next morning we made sure to have our last visit to our favorite place--The Snack-Bar--and hang out as a team to celebrate Abby's 20th birthday!


-Bitts

Day 7 photos

Day 7

Day 7 was packed with touring. We started the day by going to the German city of Cologne. Hub warned us not to buy a German soccer jersey. He said we wouldn’t be allowed on the bus if we bought one (the Dutch are not big fans of the Germans). However, Rachel could not resist buying a German soccer Jersey. Hub was not pleased! After buying some souvenirs for our families and friends we toured the Cathedral of Cologne. It took over 600 years to complete and they are still working on it! It is one of the biggest cathedrals in the World! The cathedral was beautifully decorated with stain glass windows and contains the Shrine of the Three Kings.

                After leaving the city of Cologne, we relaxed on the Rhine River cruise. We enjoyed seeing castle ruins and other historic buildings in Germany. We saw a variety of beautiful ruins and cathedrals along the way. Later in the day, we went to the village of Mayschoss where we had a guided tour through a winery (Dad, I bet your jealous). We learned what processes go into making various types of wines. There wine vineyards went on forever! Some of the Vineyards were located along cliffs (I would hate to work on the giant hills the vineyards were located on, a bit too steep for me). Some of the parents may be receiving some gifts from the winery from their daughters!

                After leaving the winery we enjoyed a nice dinner at a restaurant next to the winery. Our day was extremely eventful and exciting. We all enjoyed seeing the historic sites in Germany. 

~ Shafi

 

Day 6

I can’t believe we only have 3 more full days left in Europe! It is all going much too fast! (Don’t worry, we miss you all at home too!) The past two days have been extremely exciting and eventful. Yesterday, we said goodbye to our favorite trainer Roel. We will miss his fun, extreme warm up games and drills (even though some were a bit intense).  Following the training session, we ventured into Maastricht, the oldest city in Holland. The city is over 1000 years old! We explored the Roman ruins, little shops, and ventured through a carnival. We saw the cathedral, Basilica of Saint Servatius and explored the surrounding park. To keep us energized through all this touring, some of us indulged in chocolate filled waffles or gelato (clearly we are maintaining healthy eating habits overseas.)

After touring Maastricht, we went shopping! (Don’t worry mom I didn’t buy any clothes!) Our bus driver accidently took us to the mall, but no worries, we found our way to the outlets. Hub was determined to take us to the outlets and find us some good steals! (I think Hub was more excited than we were) Again, we stopped for more gelato (it helped energize us for the game!)

                We were in for a big shock last night as we pulled up to the Maastricht field hockey team’s field. Apparently, yesterday was the last day of university classes, so there was a giant party going on at the fields (clearly they like to party in Holland). After stepping off the bus, we ventured through the mass of students. I couldn’t believe how many people were at the fields. I guess when they party in Holland, they go all out! We were greeted by a few students; they were all very entertaining to say the least.

                Last night, we faced our most challenging opponents. We played very well against them. After implementing the “bowl” formation in the back, our passing game was on! Both the defense and offense made some really great plays and saves! The girls we played were extremely nice and even offered to show us around Maastricht. After four days of games, we were ready for some rest!

I will post pictures as soon as my camera is charged!

~Shafi

Day 6

Today was our last day with our favorite dutch coach Roel! We had our last training session from 9-10:30 and then set off to explore the oldest city in Holland--Maastricht.

Upon our arrival in Maastricht, some of us separated on a tour of the history packed city, while others got a head start to the wonderful shopping in the area. Our first impression of Maastricht was that it was quite charming taken the friendly atmosphere and humble Cathedral "Basilica of Our Lady". Little did we know what was to come later that night...

Following our time in Maastricht we crossed the border into Belgium only to find ourselves in a mall quite similar to any mall you would see in the United States. As we were all exhausted from our three games and three training sessions in a row streak we would have simply gone back to rest if it weren't for our tour guide Hub insisting on us making it to our intended destination of the Maasmechlen Factory outlets. After browsing through outlet shops and having gellatto and/or "warm chocolate milk" we returned to the hotel to prepare for our second to last game of the trip.

Being that we had just been in Maastricht hours before our game, we had expected something a bit different than what we were exposed to. As we exited the bus to the Maastricht Club we noticed large tents filled with hundreds of intoxicated Dutch people and an uncountable amount of empty cups on the ground. Bombarded by people speaking to us in Dutch or telling us that we were "too late. the party is over", we fearfully trudged through the garbage to our field. As we walked many of us were reminded, by the wretched smell, of a familiar place at home called Riemert. Some parents are unlucky enough to have moved their children into this place and must understand the extent of this awful stench.

(man in background leaf-blowing empty cups and garbage off the field we played on)


We eventually excused this interesting welcome party with the fact that their summer had just begun, and refocused ourselves on the game. After the trash was literally blown off the field by what appeared to be a leaf blower, and our field was unexpectedly watered down during our pow-wow, we finally began the match. Though we were unable to score against this previously top ranked club team, we seemed to connect better than ever in the entire tournament. We fought long and hard for three 20 minute periods and learned a great deal. We then socialized with our opponents in their Club House and enjoyed the rest of our evening. It is now time for a nice break for our legs until our next and final game in Amsterdam on Tuesday night!

-Bitts

UCFH & The "YMCA"

Day 5

It's hard to believe we are already on Day 5 of our European Tour! But for our bodies... it's very believable. WE ARE ALL SO SORE.

After a tough loss today in our third European match, we hobbled around the city of Valkenburg to get some lunch.  A few of us joked around saying we were all extremely susceptible to robbery due to the fact that if someone grabbed our purses, the odds of our tight muscles being able to push our bodies into a full sprint were slim to none. (Relax Mom I did not actually get pick pocketed. And no I am not wearing that pouch that you suggested I wear under all of my clothes that holds my ID and insurance information. It is highly embarrassing)

We have all been doing really well with branching out and indulging in some true Dutch cuisine. One of the club teams introduced us into some interesting snack called a "bittere bal" that we were all brave enough to try! (Except for our little herbivore, Julie.) Most of you were worried your picky daughters (myself included) would be scoping out the nearest McDonalds while in Europe, desperate for some familiar American cuisine but you will all be proud to know that we have so far enjoyed several little cafes and food stands full of Dutch delicacies!  (Though OK I confess I did buy a pack of Pringles at the local supermarket... but give me a break those things are delicious!)

Today a few of us stopped at a bistro in town to eat lunch.  Julie was satisfied with her vegetarian options, and Rachel had her first bowl of French onion soup! 

Day Five presented us with a tight schedule, so after lunch we raced back to the hotel to pack up our gear and head to our next session with our new favorite trainer, Roel. (pronouced like: ROOL)  His interesting, Dutch approach of warming up had us playing an extreme form of leap frog yesterday and "horseback riding" today.  Let's just say that as soon as he said partner up and hop on your partner's back, I knew it was going to be a disaster. (Our trainer, Vandeburg looked more than a little bit nervous from the sidelines...)

Our game of "horseback riding" claimed one victim, poor Courtney :( But no worries parents, we are in great hands with Michelle! Only Michelle would give us a piggyback ride from the bus to the hotel when we have injured one of our bear paws.

We ended our day with a nice stretch in the hotel pool, and there may have been a little synchronized swimming here and there... Got to nail that choreography for our upcoming music video somehow!


With love from the Netherlands,
Kara

Day 3

Today, after breakfast and a bus ride to the "pitch", UCFH was greeted with a new Dutch hockey trainer. His dry sense of humor and exciting new leap frog- ish warm up games that will be "great for our muscles" along with some Men's Spanish inspired hockey drills left us all excited to be able to work with him for the next few days. His unfamiliar but seemingly easily forgotten name will be shared tomorrow.  His serenade of the the birthday girl (Rachel.. yay!) in Dutch concluded our practice for the morning. We all loaded the bus to catch lunch in our small village of Valkenburg before heading to the Cave tour!

(some members of the team playing leap frog at our training session)

After arriving at the entrance to the caves, unnerving bathroom breaks and a 40 m descent on a never ending spiral staircase left us in the largest underground mines of marl stone in Europe extending over 70 kilometers.

(Shafi and Pappas holding hands in fear walking down the steps to the caves)

Our differing levels of biking experience were demonstrated as we trekked through the cold and humid tunnels yelling BUKKEN for duck. No worries though, parents!.. our expensively educated heads were protected in beautifully fitted hard hats complete with protective hairnets.  Our favorite stop of the tour included a room filled serenely lit perfumed candles and marked with intricate religious charcoal drawings. Upon completing our favorite excursion thus far we made it back to Valkenburg to get ready for our next friendly match. 

As we lined up across from our opponents the size deficit was obvious, but UCFH persevered as Jenna Stover broke open our international goal scoring on a nicely executed corner, a goal followed by Maddie and an impressive second half by the entire team. A short visit was payed to our opponents in their club house before loading the bus. 

Upon entering the hotel after another late game night, everyone seemed to catch a second wind as Rachel was serenaded by the entire lobby which was full of British elders who insisted on having us join them for the YMCA song . After YMCA-ing for a bit with sore legs and a talented pianist.. as a tribute he began to play the national anthem which the entire team felt obligated to finish with the traditional "home of the bears" ending. It was a great way to conclude an eventful day. Some of us caught a stretch with Van de Berg in the hotel pool before heading to bed early in preparation for our friendly match against HC Heerlen/Kerkrade tomorrow! More pictures/videos and updates to come :-) 

Best, 

Jul

Day 2

Yesterday after an early morning breakfast we found ourselves standing in front of a highly accomplished dutch hockey coach. He was not that fluent in English which added a lot of comic relief to the otherwise unfamiliar practice routine. The lack of stretching and water breaks was definitely new to all of us. Parched and ready for afternoon touring we made our way back to the hotel to freshen up before leaving for Aachen.

All of the girls were ecstatic to make a stop at the Lindt chocolate factory on the way, all of our hands full of amazingly priced sweets for family and friends. After being released for lunch on our own in the historical city,  Rachel and Pappas indulged in some traditional food including Bratwurst with mustard and potato pancakes. The other girls fancied gelato and sandwich shops before we took a tour of Charlemagne's Cathedral. The local farmers market was up and running which in combination with the tour around the cathedral a perfect combination for experiencing the culture of Aachen.

The rainy weather found us excited to get back to the hotel for dinner and a bus ride to our first friendly match against HC Blerick. The whole team experienced a brand new style of hockey complimented by a post game gathering in the hockey club's swanky club house. It was nice to interact with people from completely different backgrounds after being brought together by a sport that we all love and enjoy.  The hour bus ride back to Valkenburg soon put everyone to sleep after two days of traveling, touring, and play.

Pictures compliments of Bits to come!

Best,
Jul

(seniors at the Lindt factory with their colorful rain jackets)

(front of the beautiful Cathedral)

Day 1

After a six hour flight to London and a transfer flight to Brussels, we have finally made it safe and sound to the Hotel Walram in the cozy village of Valkenburg, Holland. Most of us are now fighting to conquer the effects of jet-lag and stay awake after an extremely busy day of traveling and touring.

When we got to Brussels we met our tour guide Hub, or "hoop"as we would call him. He showed us the Atomium, the famous Mannequin Pis, and the lovely Grand Place. We then enjoyed some free time, walking along the cobblestone streets on a beautiful sunny day in the city. The streets were filled with paintings, shops, and most importantly a multitude of precious unleashed dogs. We also took note that some people don't like when you feed their dogs...

It was nice to know that we were not the only obvious tourists, as a group from Korea jumped in one of our photos in the square. However, I think it is safe to say that one of our most favorite parts of today's trip was finally getting our hands on a delectable, warm, chocolate/whipped cream/strawberry/whatever it may be covered BELGIUM WAFFLE!!! 

You could practically savor the taste by one whiff at every corner we turned. Despite a wonderful time in Brussels, we eventually found ourselves gathering at our meeting place earlier than directed by our tour guide due to extreme lack of sleep. Needless to say mostly all of us immediately zonked out on our 2 hour bus ride across Belgium to our current destination.

We've had an extremely busy day (or two... we aren't really sure), but it is now time to get some rest and prepare ourselves for our first training session with the Dutch Coach followed by our first game overseas. We are all so excited for what we will learn!






-Bitts

      (The whole team at the Atomium)

UCFH Takes Off

First and foremost, Happy Mother's Day (especially you mommy)!!The day has finally come! UCFH is taking on Europe! Despite Shafi and Juli arriving late, and Jenna and Paige getting searched at security, we have finally made it to the gate. We are going to board in approximately one hour. We are all very excited and we are currently entertaining ourselves with silly activities such as making friendship bracelets, making music videos, and using the wifi. Shout out to Mrs. Kornfeld.... We are making memories!! We will miss all of you back at home. Don't worry we will bring back some souvenirs! I hope you are looking forward to our musical debut; we are currently working on it. Try not to miss us or worry too much; we are all having a great time and we will update you soon with pics and videos to come :)

<3 Bitts and Shaf and the rest of UCFH