Parade Day August 10, 2013

The teams gathered at the Galleri Mall to prepare for a parade of flags to the venue. Lots of songs from many of the countries. Team Finland carried the flags of Finland greeting the spectators as they walked.  A local band and baton twirlers led the parade. Jarno had the honor of carrying the flag onto the field for the opening ceremony. When all the teams were introduced the draw for the tournament was held with local dignitaries and Mel Young, the President of the HWC drawing the team names. Finland is in Group B with Brazil, Costa Rica, Namibia, Greece and long time friends and rivals Sweden. Our first match will be with Sweden at 14:30 local time. Following the festivities, the teams were treated to a BBQ Polish style, with kielbasa and pork on the grill and lots of salads and potatoes and pickles available. An interesting dish was what at first looked like a crock of mashed potatoes, but instead it was a crock of lard. It is traditional to spread a small amount of the lard on a piece of bread and then add salt. The rest of the time was spent enjoying the sunset over Lake Malta, watching for mosquitos and then heading back to the Galleri Mall for an ice cream or a coffee. Tomorrow as the games begin the guys will hopefully enjoy the spirit of the tournament. Good luck Team Finland