That's certainly the case for Les Canadiennes' forward Ann-Sophie Bettez.
Bettez will join Team Canada for a three-game series against the Americans beginning on February 12.
It will mark the Sept-Îles, QC native's first appearance with the Hockey Canada program since 2010. Back then, Bettez played five games with the Under-22 squad at the MLP Cup. She finished the tournament with one goal and four points.
Following the Team Canada announcement, Bettez was at a loss for words. She didn't know if being named to the team really happened, or it was just fiction.
"I asked myself if I was dreaming or if it was really true," explained Bettez. "I wasn't expecting that. I was really surprised and happy."
After realizing the significance of the news, Bettez wasted little time letting her biggest fans know she would soon be representing her country again.
"First, I told my parents and my family. They were there for me the whole way, whether it be the money they spent or the time they sacrificed for me," mentioned Bettez. "Giving them the news was a bit of a reward to show them that their efforts paid off."
At age 31, Bettez is the second-oldest player on the team after goaltender Shannon Szabados.
Shifting focus
Unlike many players on Team Canada, Bettez also holds down a full-time job. She works as a financial advisor in Montreal.
She knows, however, that she'll have to focus squarely on hockey in the coming weeks and months.
"It also involves a lot of changes, because when you're a member of the National Team, you have to train as much on the ice as you do off it. The 24 hours I have in a day won't get any longer," said Bettez. "I'll have to change my priorities a bit. I talked to the people in my office and they're comfortable with the new structure that I bring and they're going to support me in the years ahead."
Speaking of her work colleagues, they've been behind her from the start and have helped her reach her goals.
"I explained the situation and they told me: "It's your dream. We're there for you." When you're a part of a team, it changes the way you plan your life, but also the way you handle things with your work group," explained Bettez. "I'm happy that they're all there to support me. They're like a second family for me."
Familiar territory
Bettez will be among familiar faces when she joins Team Canada. Five other players from Les Canadiennes will also be suiting up for the squad, including Marie-Philip Poulin, Erin Ambrose, Jillian Saulnier, Geneviève Lacasse and Emerance Maschmeyer.
