Had a request to post this to the group.  Julia Ashmun seems to
have been working very hard in kicking a lot of folk into action
making this happen, so if you can help, that's great.  Otherwise,
if you might be in the area for any of the games, then go and
watch.  Should be some good hockey. The Russian squad is going
on to Brampton afterwards.  Julia is in Montreal this week trying
to get some direct help from the various manufacturers (big hockey
equipment trade show for next season).
 
Graeme Bailey
 
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The Russian National Women's Ice Hockey Team
to play five Exhibition Games at MIT on March 22-26
 
The Russian National Women's Ice Hockey Team is comprised of the
best women hockey players in Russia.  The Russian National team is
competing in tournaments in Europe, Asia, and North America in
preparation for the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan.  Boston
has been included in the itinerary because it has some of the best
women's ice hockey in the United States, and many of the US National
skaters will be chosen from the NorthEast.  Five exhibition games
will be played against local teams at MIT (Johnson Athletic Center)
on March 22-25th at 8pm and Saturday at 12pm.  Admission is free.
 
As you know, the economic situation in Russian has continued to
deteriorate, making it very difficult for the Russian team to travel
to international tournaments and even to acquire adequate hockey
equipment.  In most countries, including our own, women's sports
receive far less funding and sponsorship than men's sports.  In
addition,
the average worker in Russia earns $300 a year.  Without international
hockey experience, this team will fail to qualify for the Olympics.
This inequity is not in spirit of the Olympics and CAN be corrected
with
our support.  Fund raising efforts have been undertaken and some money
has been raised from local area players and businesses to cover some of
the team's expenses.  But donations, contributions, and sponsorships
are
still needed ($15, $25, $50, $100, or any amount).  For further
information contact:
 
        Julia at email address      <[log in to unmask]>
 
or send contributions to Julia Ashmun, 21 Seavey Rd, Danville, NH 03819
payable to "Women's Ice Hockey Fund".
 
Thanks, Julia