After the final horn and win 4:2 unruly celebrations broke out in the Tre Kronor team, which were enhanced by touching scenes. The captain of the Swedish world champions Jack Berglund couldn’t contain his emotions and broke down in tears.
“You can be a big tough guy, but it was really emotional. It’s the best team I’ve ever played in, a great group. When you work on something for so long … and suddenly it’s a dream come true,” described the proud leader.
In the midst of the celebrations came a shock. The trip home from the US was canceled due to the snow storm in Amsterdam. The original plan was for the junior national team to return to Sweden on Wednesday morning, followed by a public welcome and celebrations. But it failed.
Silver Czechs at the Junior World Championships
But the players don’t particularly mind. “Of course we’re looking forward to going home. But I’d like to spend a few more days here. Let’s have popcorn and drink milk,” laughed Anton Frondell. “It’s going to be fun, I’m not complaining,” winked goalkeeper Love Härenstam. “Yeah, not too bad to be with those guys for a few more days.”
Under parental supervision
The legal drinking age in America is 21, but it’s clear that some beer will be spilled during the championship shootout. But young people can’t overdo it. Some will be watched over by parents who arrived for the finals and are now stuck in Minneapolis with the players.
The world champions will miss the official celebrations in Sweden, which have been cancelled. The association will recognize the junior champions only in May at the senior Swedish Games.
President Petr Pavel invited the Czech juniors directly to the Castle. “Our hockey juniors are on the podium for the fourth year in a row. Excellent representation of the Czech Republic and a great business card of Czech hockey. Big congratulations, guys, and I invite you to the Castle!” he said via social media.
The Czech twentysomething is to fly home on Wednesday. If there are no complications with the weather…
