12-year-old hockey boys Sweden-bound

(WTNH) -- Guilford's Michael Kane, Wetherfield's Jacob Monroe, and Madison's Riley Connors and Daniel Long; for 10 days they will be the face of American hockey.

"It feels great," said Kane.

"This is what we all hoped for and wanted," Connors said.

They are among the top 12-year-olds in the country, chosen to be part of the United States team, competing in the World Selects Invitational in Stockholm, Sweden.

"It makes me feel proud I can represent my state," said Monroe.

"I'm so excited to play against these good players in this tournament," Long said.

Russia, Sweden, and Latvia are among the teams the US will face.

Shaun Kane coached the CT contingent, and he'll be among the parents making the trip.

"These kids worked their rear ends off all year long," said Kane, "and they deserve this opportunity because of the hard work they put in."

Selects hockey is an elite prospect development program.

The tournament has produced NHL and high level college hockey players.

While they'll be playing plenty of hockey in Sweden against some of the best competition from around the world, for these four it's also a little bit of a life lesson.

"Hockey's just one thing," Monroe said, "the sight seeing is going to be great."

"I hope to meet a lot of new friends, develop my skills," said Kane.

"I'm looking forward to meeting the people, the culture they have there," said Connors.

"You get to learn Swedish and everything," Monroe said.

"Heech? It's hello I'm guessing," said Connors.

"Heech! Yes, it means hello," said Long.

On Friday, they will say goodbye United States, hello Sweden. They're packed and ready to go.

"Do you have your passport," asked Sports Team 8's John Pierson.

"Yeah, bad photo though," Connors replied.

"I look like a criminal in mine," said Long.

"Mine is good looking," said Kane.