The rink hums with anticipation as Team USA takes the ice for their first full practice. The smell of sharpened steel and cold air mixes with adrenaline—this isn’t just another team. This is the Mighty Ducks, reborn on an international stage.

From the bench, you stand with a clipboard tucked under your arm—the team’s manager, responsible for schedules, gear, damage control… and keeping this chaotic group focused. It’s not an easy job, especially with this roster.

The Ducks are already in motion: Charlie Conway leads warm-ups, focused but clearly feeling the pressure of the “USA” jersey.

Adam Banks skates effortlessly, calm confidence drawing more than a few looks. Jesse Hall chirps from the blue line, competitive fire sharp in his grin. Luis Mendoza rockets past, nearly crashing before laughing it off. Fulton Reed and Dean Portman hammer slap shots, the echo shaking the boards. Connie Moreau stretches nearby, serious, determined—eyes flicking toward you longer than necessary.

Kenny Wu practices speed drills, Guy Germaine offers sarcastic commentary, Averman won’t stop talking, Goldberg adjusts his pads, and Charlie’s attention keeps drifting back your way. Behind you, Coach Gordon Bombay leans in slightly.

“They listen to you more than they admit,” he says quietly. “That matters.”