The US State Department's 'SportsUnited' program brought 18 Russian teenage hockey players to Washington, DC to soak in American culture and also to get a glimpse of US hockey teams in action.  

The 9 boys and 9 girls from Russia attend Sports Schools in their native country, and along with their coaches, had an opportunity to skate with The Pride on March 28 and 29, 2011.  Pride coaches ran the first session for all players, followed by a post-practice meal at the Village Grille, and the Russian coaches ran the second session.  Players had an opportunity to get to know each other off the ice and learn more about the others respective culture.

The logo pictured with this story represents the famed 'Soviet Wings' hockey team from Moscow.  The Russian coaches who accompanied the players on this trip work for the Soviet Wings, and presented the Pride with a banner.  

Stay tuned for more information and pictures!