For PWHL Toronto players not at worlds, break brought right mix of fun and practice

Despite a split from some of their teammates and coaches, the Professional Women's Hockey League's international break served as a welcome reset for the players on league-leading Toronto.

Seven players, along with head coach Troy Ryan and goalie coach Brad Kirkwood, went to Utica, N.Y., for the women's world hockey championship. Those that remained found time to practice four times a week during their break, which began March 24 and was set to end Thursday at Boston.

"I think it was a good reset for the girls that were here," forward Rebecca Leslie said after practice Tuesday. "Time at home, consistency and a routine, that was huge for us.

Forward Maggie Connors said they were able to work on concepts and improve even while missing some of their teammates and coaches.

"I think our coaches did an amazing job scheduling and planning lots of lifts, practices, different skill work," Connors said. "And so I really think it benefited the group here and hopefully, obviously, when we get back together on Thursday, we won't have lost a step."

With work, though, came fun. One instance was defender Lauriane Rougeau wearing a balloon on top of her helmet all practice for her birthday last Friday.

"Obviously, this group knows how to have fun on the ice and balance between hard work and having that fun," Connors said. "The coaches implemented tons of games, we had a little competition cup between two teams to keep that competitive energy high."

There isn't a shortage of excitement to get back to action, however.

"I think that we're pretty lucky, we play hockey for a living," Leslie said. "And so, it's pretty fun to come to work every day. Some days were long, it was a long three weeks, not going to lie, with just practising and not