Snyder and Crousey: What do US U-23 predict ahead of the Liberec tournament?

How is your team shaping up for the upcoming 2023 Junior World Championship in Liberec? Are you excited?

Snyder: The team is shaping up well with great talent throughout the roster. I can't wait to see it all come together on the field.

Crousey: Excited would be an understatement. The effort put in from both a personal and team standpoint has been on another level. Every man knows his role and is confident that the man next to him will do his job. We are thrilled that our hard work is transferring into success.

The coaches have given you the trust to be key players for your team. Are you nervous about your team role? What are your team's goals?

Snyder: The team's goal is to win gold, and we know it won't be easy.

Crousey: There are so many amazing players and characters on this team who will fulfill their roles to the fullest. As for the goals of this team...what's the point of participating if you don't want the gold medal?

How are you looking forward to the international matches in Liberec? What are your expectations? Which opponent are you most looking forward to facing?

Snyder: I'm really excited about these international matches in Liberec. Regardless of who we play, you know it will be a great game for the fans, and you'll be part of the experience.

Crousey: Since it's my first international tournament, I'm personally very excited about the prospect of facing different national teams for the first time. Based on what I've watched from home during the last few tournaments, they are always fast, physical, and have great playmakers. It's clear that all the matches will mean a lot, but I'm most looking forward to battling it out with our northern neighbors. I think our teams will put on a show with their combined talent.

What are you primarily focusing on in your tournament preparation?

Snyder: We are definitely focusing on being in shape and ready for the speed of international games.

Crousey: Mentality. Being mentally tough. It's a long tournament where anything can happen, so I think just staying focused on every second of every game will help us as a team to achieve our ultimate goals.

What can we expect from your team? What will be the specifics of your game? Aggressive ball hockey? Or more tactics, relying on players to follow the system implemented by your coaches?

Snyder: You can expect a team that is hungry for gold and is willing to do whatever it takes to bring it home. This team has the talent, ability and speed to play any style necessary for victory.