Moose Jaw Warriors defenceman Libor Zabransky got a letter under the Christmas tree this year - the C to captain the host Czech Republic team at the World Junior Hockey Championship.  

They opened the tournament Thursday with a 4-3 upset win over the Russians. Zabransky picked up a minor penalty and had a team-high five shots on net in 20:54 ice time. 

A packed rink in Ostrava watched the game and the Czechs will now have an off day Friday before a Saturday date with Germany, which was promoted to the top tier tournament just this year. 

After the Canadians' battle with the Americans today, they'll also have Friday off before a Saturday match with the Russians.