This weekend we head north of the border to play two games in Abbotsford, BC against the Heat. Unlike most road trips, we actually get a warm reception in Abbotsford, because we are associated with the Vancouver Canucks, who play about an hour away.

Packing for a road trip is something I haven’t had to do in quite a while.  Over the years, I have picked up some tips to successfully packing for a weekend of hockey.  A suit is essential, as we are required to wear one while traveling, as well as, to and from games.  Shoes and a toothbrush are the other key essentials.  Unfortunately, I know from personal experience that forgetting dress shoes can be a costly mistake, because your only options are to buy a new pair, or pay the fine and have the #thebooys remind you of it for weeks to come.  The option I chose, trying to pass black sneakers for dress shoes, was a poor one as I didn’t even make it down the hotel hallway before I heard laughter and saw some pictures being taken. 

Personally, another key item to pack is an extra dress shirt or two depending on the length of the trip.  Nothing worse than only having the one shirt and you end up spilling something down the front.  For me, it’s usually the chocolate sauce from the pregame ice cream. 

The last key to packing for a road trip is managing to get everything to fit into a carry-on bag.  Here the usual tricks work, travel size toiletries, rolled up tees, etc.  It’s a lot easier for the European players, because their clothes tend to be smaller and a bit tight, not to mention any specific players, but one rhymes with Smeddie Tack!

Maddog….out!

This year I will be writing a blog throughout the season touching on a variety of topics both on and off the ice. I'm definitely geared up and excited to kick-off the 2012-13 season at home on Oct. 13 in front of the best fans in the league. See you soon.

Maddog... OUT!

Hey Wolves Fans...Wish this blog was coming with a update on our travel in the second round. As I'm sure many of you are, the entire organization is disappointed to be finished with our year so early.

We thought we had the right team to go far into playoffs, but unfortunately we fell short in the final game of the series. Sometimes in playoffs, a little bounce can be the difference in the series.  I want to thank all of you for your loyal support throughout the entire season! We definitely have the best fans in the league.

I also want to thank those of you that have shown concern over Twitter regarding my injury in the final game of the year. For those who don't know, I was hit in the head with a slap shot in the second overtime period of Game 5. The puck actually hit me in the ear and fortunately my eardrum was not damaged. Right now my ear is cut, swollen, and bruised, but I expect to be fully recovered in a couple of weeks.

At the end of the hockey year, most players take no longer than a week to tie off loose ends and pack up their stuff before leaving town. It's always a strange feeling at the end of a season, because the same group of people that you have spent every day with over the past nine months is suddenly gone. I guess it's just a part of a hockey player’s life.

This year will actually be a nice change because there are a few players, including myself, that are hanging out for awhile. It will be fun to have a chance to further explore the great city of Chicago, take in a few ballgames, eat at some unique spots, etc. I wish all of you a safe and happy summer!

Follow me on Twitter @25Maddog. Maddog...out!!