Both teams arrived safe and sound after a crazy connection in Philadelphia. Who knew the Philly airport was so prone to traffic congestion! A passport may or may not have been lost in the mad dash to the connecting flight, but thankfully the panic lasted only a moment as it was quickly found in another player's bag.

After little sleep on the flight the boys landed in Madrid and quickly checked into their hotels. All were present for a team meeting reviewing the itinerary for the day and then everyone loaded up on coaches for a light training session with the CASL staff.

While the boys warmed up, the parents walked around the local neighborhood to find a local cafe. The friendly owner quickly provided cafe au lait for most of the parents, while the others hit the grocery market next door for a Coke. Thanks to Bob Frame's Spanish skills the cafe owner was soon offering us food to try - including the iberico ham that Madrid is famous for.

Everyone is getting a chance to rest and shower before the big Madrid Derby later today. More posts to come about the game!