Pronger expects to fit in well at Winter Olympics

"We made sure that it will be well-stocked and nutritious," Cutler said. "We have a 900-seat dining area, which seats one-third of the population. It's set up like a food court, with seven different prepared cuisines and cultural food types. We also have a little market that has cold foods and cold cuts."

If that doesn't fulfill the craving, athletes can hit the 24-hour McDonald's that was built inside the cafeteria.

When Pronger and the other Olympic athletes aren't competing or sleeping, they aren't likely to be found in their rooms. The living quarters do not have televisions or telephones, as they aren't required by the IOC.

That means the athletes will likely be soaking up the 100,000 square feet of "living room" space in the central part of the Village. There, athletes can find a library; alcohol-free bar; dance floor; two Internet cafes; movie lounge; central fitness facility with pool; phone bank; multifaith religious center; game room with billiards, foosball and shuffleboard; and, Cutler said, a room filled with musical instruments for athletes to "jam out."

Pronger said he enjoyed the time spent socializing with other athletes.

"It's fun. You get to see all of the Olympic athletes not only from your country but all of the countries," he said. "Obviously, you see the highlights from TV from all of the skiing events or different events, so you have a clue of who the top guys are. You get a chance to interact with them, see how they prepare for their various events. It's a good chance to meet some people and kind of talk shop."

Undoubtedly, Pronger will have a slew of stories to share - and plenty of room to make new ones. Negative experiences aside, Pronger is looking forward to his 2-week adventure. This time, on home soil, it doesn't seem so daunting.

"You've got to try to be as positive as you can," Pronger said, "and use it as a positive learning experience and a chance to grow as a person." *