It was at the Pearson International Airport where they hit one of their biggest challenges.
"We almost missed our flight because the US customs was so backed up," Angelo said.
Enter Gary Drysdale - the father of Anaheim Ducks defenceman (and Perfetti's teammate at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship), Jamie Drysdale.
"He was on the flight as well, he actually held the plane for us. He literally told the pilot that Cole's parents were on the way and they were going to miss the game," Angelo said. "The pilot then did a little thing on the plane saying welcome."
In Newark, the Perfettis connected to a flight taking them to California. They got to the hotel, dropped off their belongings, and made a beeline for the rink.
They got there just in time to see their son's solo lap.
"It's something he's worked a really long time for," said Angela, her pride noticeable as she spoke. "To see it come together for him was special."
It was one of the craziest hockey trips they've ever taken, but they knew they'd do everything in their power to watch their 19-year-old experience this milestone.
"The night before (the road trip), he didn't know. He packed his bags as if he was going on the road trip," said Angelo. "I said 'just pack, take it to the rink, and they'll let you know at some point.' He was pretty excited."
The excitement their son had was perhaps only matched by their own, as they each gave him one last piece of advice before he got locked in for game day.
"It's such a mom thing," Angela smiled. "I said the same thing to him since he was four years old. Just have fun."
As for Angelo, his advice sounded similar to what Maurice likely told Perfetti before he took the ice.
"This happens only once. Make sure you take it in and you enjoy it," said Angelo. "At the end of the day, it's the game you've always played. Just play your game. Don't do anything different, just play your game."
