Defenceman David Clements says he is “enjoying every minute” of his World Championship journey so far as Great Britain undergo their final preparations for their opening match against Russia tomorrow.
The 26-year-old, who made nine appearance for GB Under-18s and five for GB Under-20s, is part of a GB senior squad for the first time.
“I know I am going to have to adapt quickly but I’m really excited,” said Clements.
“I am enjoying being around this group. These guys have been together for a long time now and have a great bond amongst them.
“They’ve worked really hard to get where they are. The hockey side and off the ice I could not be more happier. I have enjoyed every minute of it so far.”
GB also face Slovakia, Denmark, Belarus, Sweden, Czech Republic and Switzerland in the eight-team Group A at the Olympic Sports Centre in Riga.
But all eyes are on tomorrow’s game against Russia, who are ranked number two in the world.
“Russia have size and will have big bodies out there,” continued Clements. “They can shoot the puck hard and are physical.
“We are just going to have to adapt to the speed as much as we can and frustrate them for as long as we can.”
All matches will be shown free-to-air on FreeSports, which is available free on Sky Channel 422, Virgin Media Channel 553, on Channel 64 on Freeview and BT and via the FreeSports Player.
GB fixtures
Saturday 22nd May – Great Britain v Russia – 16:15 face-off (14:15 UK time)
Sunday 23rd May – Great Britain v Slovakia – 12:15 face-off (10:15 UK time)
Tuesday 25th May – Great Britain v Denmark – 16:15 face-off (14:15 UK time)
Wednesday 26th May – Belarus v Great Britain – 20:15 face-off (18:15 UK time)
Friday 28th May – Sweden v Great Britain – 16:15 face-off (14:15 UK time)
Saturday 29th May – Czech Republic v Great Britain – 12:15 face-off (10:15 UK time)
Tuesday 1st June – Switzerland v Great Britain – 12:15 face-off (10:15 UK time)