Gabbie Hughes talks about the PWHL Takeover Tour OTTAWA -- Ottawa took to the ice this morning for one final practice at TD Place before heading off to Quebec City to take part in their first Takeover Tour game of the season at Videotron Centre. For much of the team, this game marks their first time participating in such a game and while the three points are critical in a league with such parity, being able to take part in off ice activities, away from media and the like, offers a unique opportunity to bond. “It’s a really important piece of a team’s success,” Hughes said. “Everyone has a lot more fun when you gel and everyone has that family mentality. We’re just excited to continue to spend time together. We always have a blast!” The team departs Ottawa immediately following practice and will arrive in Quebec with plenty of time prior to puck drop to take part in many fun activities, including sledding, as well as a quintessential meal: poutine. The importance of these games, and having the opportunity to take part in them and help grow the game is not lost on the players. “I’m excited,” said Larocque. “This is my first Takeover game of the season, and I’m really looking forward to it. I think it’s important to have these games. Seeing the community, giving back to the game that we love and putting on a really good show is what it’s all about!” With so many new additions to the team, through both the draft, free agency, as well as trades, opportunities like these provide players with the opportunity to escape the pressures of wins and losses, points and the standings, and connect on a personal level. Those connections and bonds are the intangibles of the game that work in a team’s favour down the stretch and into the playoffs.
