By / Kristi Patton
With the opportunity to play with some of the best in the world, Angela Frauschi and Anja Stiefel had no problem jumping on a plane and travelling over 7,500 kilometres.
The two forwards, who come from Switzerland, joined the Calgary Oval X-Treme this season so they could learn from some of the best players in the world in the Western Women’s Hockey League.
“I always wanted to play in other and better leagues then the Swiss league. I want to improve my hockey speed and hockey skills and it is a good personal experience too. It is a good challenge to play against such good players, it helps you to become better forwards,” said Frautschi.
Both of the Swiss players found out quickly the differences from their club teams back home.
“The hardest part is the speed with the X-Treme, most of the players are faster and have more hockey experience,” said Stiefel. “The level is much higher and everyone knows what to do with the puck.”
Getting the chance to play with many who have already experienced the highest international levels of the women’s game will only help when it comes to their turn to play for their home country. Both of the players have goals to play at the World Women’s Hockey Championships held in Finland this upcoming April and the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver. Previously, the pair played for their U-18 National squad that came to Canada in 2005 to play college teams.
Stiefel also joined the U18 Swiss team in Calgary at the inaugural U18 World Championships.
“It is exciting to play with so many national players. (Playing with the X-Treme) is a good experience and I can learn a lot through them. I am glad to have this chance,” said Stiefel. |