The team has been taking COVID precautions here, and China isn’t allowing fans from outside the country to attend any events at the Olympics. Families say it feels different, making an event like this even more special.
“We’re super excited for the girls and for Kelly,” said Allie Thuleen, sister of team forward Kelly Pannek. “Obviously we can’t be there so it’s super fun to get to cheer them on from here and give them some special things here, since they won’t have all the fanes there in person.”
So, now these family members are getting ready to send their support from a distance.
“As long as you can see it on TV and get the results, it’s good,” said Pat Pannek, grandmother of Kelly Pannek.
“Just hoping everyone stays safe,” said Jane Rooney, mother of Goalie Maddie Rooney. “We want to get over there and kick some butt.”
The Olympics begin on Feb. 4, and the medal games for Women’s Hockey are scheduled for Feb. 16 and 17.
