Hockey Chaos: Darkened Milan-Cortina Arena Echoes with Noise and Barking
The upcoming hockey matches at the Milan-Cortina arena have generated significant excitement and some unexpected challenges. The Santa Giulia Arena, where teams are preparing, recently experienced a brief blackout during a Slovak training session, causing a stir among players and staff.
Blackout Disrupts Training
During a training session for the Slovak team, the arena lights unexpectedly went out for a few seconds. This moment of darkness elicited laughter from the players and staff. One of the coaches humorously addressed the technical staff working on the electrical equipment near the benches.
Unique Arena Sounds
As the arena buzzed with activity, the sound of a police dog barking added to the atmosphere. The dog appeared to be excitedly tracking the puck, mixing with the noise of drilling and the usual sounds of hockey practice.
Player Insights on Ice Conditions
- Tomas Tatar of Slovakia commented on the arena’s unique conditions, noting the puck’s unpredictable bounces.
- Swiss player Alina Müller mentioned the softer ice, attributing the team’s early arrival as necessary for acclimatization.
Coaching staff also expressed their concerns. Colin Muller, head coach of the Swiss women’s team, remarked on the quality of the ice, indicating that it becomes soft after extended play. He highlighted that NHL players might adapt more easily because they often play in arena setups designed primarily for hockey.
Challenges in Ice Preparation
Don Moffatt, responsible for the ice at the Colorado Avalanche, has been overseeing the preparation for these Olympic events. He faced delays in starting his work, which was pushed back multiple times. Moffatt noted that a new ice surface requires conditioning before competition.
Ice Conditioning Techniques
According to Moffatt, he employs various techniques to enhance the ice quality:
- Applying consistent water to maintain a solid surface.
- Creating pressure to eliminate air pockets.
He explained that during play, the ice must endure wear, which can alter its quality over time.
Impressions from Players
As tournament play approaches, players expressed their anticipation. Pierre-Édouard Bellemare noted the arena’s distinct sound, comparing it to a subway arriving at a station. Despite the challenges, players acknowledged that they were adapting to the unique environment.
In summary, the Milan-Cortina arena’s preparation for hockey events is a dynamic process. From lighting issues to the quality of the ice, teams are adapting while eagerly anticipating their first matches. As these athletes acclimatize, the stage is set for an exciting tournament filled with high-stakes competition.
