Hockey is a full contact sport featuring two teams of half-a-dozen individuals apiece on ice skates trying to put a vulcanized rubber puck into a net.

"It's a great sport, and for a full tilt, high functioning dude like me, it's wonderful, " commented Master Sgt. Ty Henrichsmeyer, Team America's goalie, as he laced up his skates.

"Hockey is my serenity."

The sport also provides a way for members of the Washington Air National Guard and the Canadian detachment assigned to the Western Air Defense Sector, or WADS, to foster camaraderie.

The 22nd Annual Team Building Canada/United States "Hockey Throw Down" was held this past Friday at the Sprinker Recreation Center in Spanaway.

While fostering teamwork between the two countries' militaries, the match also raised money for the Tacoma Pierce County Habitat for Humanity.

WADS is comprised of personnel from the Washington Air National Guard, Army, Navy, Title 5 civilian contractors and Canadian Forces Air Command.

This bi-national organization is one of two sectors responsible to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) for peacetime air sovereignty, strategic air defense and airborne counterdrug operation in the continental United States.

Located at McChord Field, the WADS monitors air traffic from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean and from the Canadian border to the Mexican border, and works in conjunction with the Washington Air National Guard.

Teamwork between American and Canadian personnel is vital, and hockey is one activity that unifies the team.

"Participating in sports events are a way to build and maintain camaraderie," stated Col. William Krueger, commander, 225th Air Defense Group, WADS.

"We work together; we play together; it is a great team."

And playing means fun.

"It is a fun event, even though I have not played hockey since I was six," commented SSgt. Jennifer Sonson, as she prepared for the match.

"I love the fun of skating; I love the camaraderie; and I hope I don't fall down too many times."

Members of Team Canada could not have agreed more.

"We are happy to show Canadian culture to our American friends," commented Canadian Capt. Denis Dorion, Team Canada's goalie.  

"This match is about fun and friendship."

The Canadians hold a 21 to 0 lead in the series.

Within minutes of the starting horn, Team America scored two goals to take an early lead.

As the game progressed, however, Team Canada began to pepper Henrichsmeyer with shot after shot to eventually tie the match at 3 to 3.

At the final horn, the Canadians held a 4 to 3 lead, to preserve the victory and their commanding lead in the series.

"This was a well played game," commented Canadian Lt. Col. Matt Wappler before the presentation of the championship trophy.  

"The sportsmanship, the working together on the ice; this event is great for all."