WORCESTER, Mass. - Everyone on the Holy Cross men's hockey team would love to play in the NHL, and the guys get a glimpse of what life as a pro must be like during their winter break. 

There is no school and no responsibility, other than hockey. They can put in more time on the ice, in the weight room and film room, as well as just hanging out together. 

"It's definitely unique, I know we have a longer break than some other schools do," said defenseman Nick Hale. "So definitely a lot of time is spent with the guys, but it's also awesome for hockey purposes. We're able to really focus on taking care of our bodies, making sure we're getting the right amount of sleep time, to recovery with Randy, our trainer, who does a great job."  

"It's fun over the break we get to just play hockey and focus on that," added forward Jack Ricketts. "That's why we're here, we want to win hockey games.  It's fun to hang out with the guys over break and also be at the rink and get extra work in, and really excel in that area."

"I love it," said goalie Jason Grande. "Any day you can just wake up and have hockey on your mind and not really have any responsibilities other than going to the rink and getting better, getting a lift in. Just taking care of your body and hang out with the boys is obviously a great opportunity for us, and the winter schedule is definitely a good time for the boys."

The Crusaders are hosting nationally ranked RIT this Friday and Saturday night at the Hart Center.