While most families spent Boxing Day cleaning up wrapping paper and shopping for deals at the mall, the Peewee Markham Majors squad had other plans in mind. With bulky hockey bags in tow, 17 players and their parents took off on a pro-like trip to Germany and Switzerland.

“As far as the kids go, all I saw were smiles and wide eyes everywhere,” explained Head Coach Troy Binnie. “I think the biggest adjustment for them was the big ice and the three 20 minute periods every game.”

In between sightseeing adventures, the Majors were treated to a true European pro hockey experience, including playing games in 17,000 seat arenas.

“My favourite moment during the trip was going to the SC Bern vs. ZSC Lions game in Bern,” said Majors forward Braedy Martin. “We had just played on the same ice as the real pros that we were now watching.”

Martin added that having his name announced in German after scoring a goal was also a highlight of the trip.

In order to make the nine-day adventure a reality, the Majors organized a team fundraising golf tournament to help cover costs.

“I hope one day all the boys will be reminded of what their parents did to make this happen for them,” said Binnie.

The Majors ended the five game trip with a 2-2-1 record.