That's the awesome part. Little girls now have a chance to look up and see women playing soccer, basketball, softball and now hockey - and know they can win a gold medal, too.

I'm able to give a voice to the athletes around the world - use my degree for something other than the power play.

I'm not playing for lack of options. But this is such a fleeting thing. When I'm done, I'm never, ever going to be able to come back to it. I know Vancouver is my last go.

I wish I could play the whole game and come back tomorrow.

There were no women's players I knew of. I didn't even know women's hockey existed.

As a veteran, you're a little more poised on that mental side. But athletically, I didn't really think I could get better.

I have enough muscle already. Now I want to use it in more efficient ways.