Florida Gulf Coast University hockey players Shayne Tomlinson and Jordan Comilla recently had the unique opportunity to trade their school colors for the Stars and Stripes. Over the course of five games in three European countries, the duo represented the United States in international competition.
“Playing for the Stars and Stripes is an incredible honor. Anytime you get to do it, don’t take it for granted,” said Tomlinson.
Comilla shared the excitement of the moment when he learned about the opportunity. “When I got the text from the coaches, I called my parents and when you’re going through it, it’s kind of a hard thing to kind of wrap around. Just like traveling to hockey you’re just used to going to the states,” he said.
The two were selected to join the American Collegiate Hockey Association’s Division Two Select Team, allowing them to compete internationally.
“We were playing all of their uni teams. So one of the teams we played, all their fans are out there. So they got the drums banging, got all the chats going throughout the game. Just being able to experience that where it’s not like that in the states,” said Comilla.
Tomlinson described one particularly memorable match. “We played the Polish home team in Poland on a Saturday night at 6. And they had about 12 power plays. We had about 1,” he said.
“It’s not only a trip. You’re going over there to play games, meet new people, play in new environments. It was definitely a surreal moment,” said Comilla.
Before each game, the players had the honor of hearing the national anthem while representing their country.
“You want to focus on the game but you kind of take a look around, you’re playing with some of the best players from all over. It’s very special. It’s kind of hard to describe,” said Tomlinson.
Now back with their Eagles teammates, both players reflect on the experience with fondness.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience especially with hockey involved,” said Comilla.
“It’s something for me, something I’m going to remember for the rest of my life,” added Tomlinson.
Their international success made the experience even more special, as the ACHA team won four of their five games overseas.