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hockey city classic | soldier field USA Warriors coach Michael Vaccaro said it was a special weekend for his players and himself. Members of the USA Warriors were given a heroes' welcome in the Windy City during Hockey Weekend Across America. The magnitude of the moment wasn't lost on the USA Warriors as they faced off against the local Chicago Blackhawks' sled hockey team before a crowd of friends and family members who braved the chilly temperatures. "This is a really big first trip and competition for us, and it's at Solider Field. It's just awesome," said Warriors Coach Michael Vaccaro. "These guys did so much for the country and they lost a lot. [It's great] to see them come back and get involved in something that puts a smile on their face – something they enjoy. They forget about everything else when they're out on the ice; it's all about hockey." The city of Chicago made sure the Warriors received a hero's welcome when they touched down at O'Hare, with representatives from the Chicago Fire and "This is a really big first trip and competition for us, and it's at Solider Field. It's just awesome" —Warriors Coach Michael Vaccaro 22 APRIL/MAY. 2013 USAHOCKEYMAGAZINE.COM In addition to some spirited competition from a local sled hockey team, the USA Warriors had a special meet and greet with the Chicago Blackhawks. Police Departments on hand to greet them. "There were fans and signs set up and when we walked off the plane they were all clapping and cheering," Vaccaro said. "All the firemen came on the airplane and shook our hands and helped the guys with wheelchairs off. It was just great." The warm welcome was just beginning. Organizers rolled out the red carpet for the Warriors squad, which also featured a team of standing amputee players who faced off against a team of local celebrities organized by U.S. Representative Mike Quigley. It was a fitting end to a day that began with a special meet and greet with members of the Chicago Blackhawks. "This is a weekend that people really recognize us, and everyone's been thanking us for our service," Vaccaro said. "It's great because a lot of times the guys forget about that. When they're in the hospital having their surgeries and going through all that stuff they get a little down, but this is something they're going to remember for the rest of their lives." N Photos By Steve Woltmann