The U.S. Women’s National Team program lives by a mantra that states “we are part of something bigger than ourselves.” It’s not just an empty saying. Instead, it’s a standard that is the core of what the group is all about.
 
The team-first mentality was on full display during the Four Nations Cup pre-camp in the Chicago area this week. The players took part in several opportunities to engage with the local girls and youth hockey communities.
 
“It’s an honor for all of us to represent our country and the women’s program and we believe in giving back to communities like this that come out and support us,” said veteran defenseman Gigi Marvin. “We’ve all looked up to the players who came before us and hopefully we can do the same and help inspire the next generation of girls.”

Over the years, the responsibility to live the mantra has developed and evolved from a sense of loyalty and the desire to help better the sport and impact the growth of the game. It has been past on from generation to generation of Team USA players and carried out like a badge of honor.
 
As the Chicago-area community can attest, the genuine desire for the women in the program to leave a lasting impression on young players they come across in their travels is something that helps set this group apart.
 
“We’re so thankful for the generosity of the national team players and all the time they take with their fans,” said Mary Ann Robinson, USA Hockey's girls'/women's representative for the central district. The smiles on the faces of the young girls who play in our program is priceless and that impact will last a lifetime.”