1980 Us Olympic Hockey Team Members
The 1980 Winter Olympics, held in Lake Placid, New York, were a historic moment for the United States. The US Olympic Hockey Team, made up of a group of young college players, went on to win the gold medal in a stunning upset against the heavily favored Soviet team, known as the “Miracle on Ice”. Let’s take a look at the members of that iconic team and how they achieved one of the greatest moments in sports history.
Head Coach: Herb Brooks
Arguably the most important member of the team, Herb Brooks was an experienced coach who had previously played for the US Olympic Hockey Team in 1964 and 1968. He brought a unique coaching style to the team, emphasizing discipline and conditioning rather than just raw talent. His unconventional methods ultimately paid off, leading the team to victory against impossible odds.
Jim Craig
The goalie for the team, Jim Craig, was a standout player who kept the Soviet team from scoring during the final period of the game. He made an incredible 36 saves throughout the game, and his performance is often cited as a key factor in the team’s victory.
Mike Eruzione
Team captain Mike Eruzione is perhaps the most famous member of the team. He scored the game-winning goal against the Soviet team and became an instant symbol of American pride and perseverance. He went on to become a motivational speaker and a well-known sports commentator.
Mark Johnson
Mark Johnson was one of the top scorers on the team, with a total of 11 points throughout the Olympic tournament. His goal against Finland in the final game helped secure the gold medal for the US team. Johnson went on to have a successful career in the NHL and is now a head coach at the University of Wisconsin.
Buzz Schneider
Buzz Schneider was one of the few team members with previous Olympic experience, having competed in the 1976 games. He scored two goals during the game against the Soviet team, helping to secure the victory for the United States.
Jack O’Callahan
Jack O’Callahan was a defenseman on the team and played a key role in shutting down the Soviet team’s offensive game. He famously took a hit from a Soviet player that resulted in a broken ankle, but he returned to the game with the help of a painkiller injection and continued to play an important role in the team’s victory.
Steve Christoff
Steve Christoff was a forward on the team and scored two goals throughout the tournament. He went on to have a brief career in the NHL before retiring due to an injury.
These are just a few of the amazing players who made up the 1980 US Olympic Hockey Team. Their victory against the Soviet team is still celebrated as one of the greatest moments in sports history and a symbol of American perseverance and determination.
