Players On 1980 Olympic Hockey Team
The 1980 Olympic Hockey Team, also known as the "Miracle on Ice," is one of the most iconic moments in sports history. This team, made up of amateur players, defeated the heavily-favored Soviet Union team and won the gold medal for the United States. While most people are familiar with the team's coach, Herb Brooks, and his famous "Do you believe in miracles?" speech, there were many unsung heroes on the team who contributed to their historic victory.
Mark Johnson
Mark Johnson, a forward for the team, scored two goals in the game against the Soviet Union, including the game-tying goal with just one second left in the second period. Johnson finished the tournament with five goals and three assists, and his contributions were crucial to the team's success.
Mike Eruzione
Mike Eruzione, the team's captain, scored the game-winning goal against the Soviet Union and also scored the winning goal in the gold medal game against Finland. Eruzione's leadership on and off the ice was a key factor in the team's success, and his famous celebration after scoring the game-winning goal is a lasting image from the 1980 Olympics.
Jim Craig
Jim Craig, the team's goalie, made 36 saves in the game against the Soviet Union and played a crucial role in the team's victory. Craig's performance in the tournament earned him the honor of being named the most valuable player in the Olympic hockey tournament, and his iconic image of him draped in the American flag looking for his father in the stands after the game is one of the most memorable moments in sports history.
Jack O'Callahan
Jack O'Callahan, a defenseman for the team, played a key role in the team's success, both on and off the ice. O'Callahan was known for his physical play and his willingness to sacrifice his body for the team, and his rousing pre-game speech before the game against the Soviet Union is still remembered today as one of the most inspiring moments in sports history.
Conclusion
While these five players were among the most prominent members of the 1980 Olympic Hockey Team, every member of the team played a crucial role in their historic victory. The team's success was a result of their hard work, dedication, and willingness to work together as a unit. Today, the "Miracle on Ice" is remembered as one of the greatest moments in sports history, and the players on the 1980 Olympic Hockey Team are remembered as unsung heroes who achieved the impossible.