Ralph Cox 1980 Olympic Hockey Team
The 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York will forever be remembered as the site of one of the greatest upsets in sports history. The United States Men's ice hockey team, made up of amateur and collegiate players, defeated the heavily-favored Soviet team in what came to be known as the "Miracle on Ice." One player on that team, Ralph Cox, played a crucial role in the team's success.
Ralph Cox: A Skilled Forward
Ralph Cox was born on July 27, 1957 in Fort Francis, Ontario, Canada. He grew up playing hockey and eventually became a skilled forward, known for his speed and stickhandling ability. Cox attended the University of New Hampshire, where he played for the Wildcats and was named captain of the team in his senior year.
The Road to the Olympics
After graduating from college, Cox played in the minor leagues and was eventually invited to join the United States Olympic hockey team. He was one of the team's top scorers during the Olympic trials, helping the team qualify for the Olympic games.
The Miracle on Ice
The United States Men's ice hockey team was not expected to do well at the 1980 Olympics. The Soviet team was made up of professional players who had dominated international hockey for years. However, the American team, led by coach Herb Brooks, was determined to prove their critics wrong.
The game between the United States and the Soviet Union was played on February 22, 1980. The Americans played a physical game and managed to keep the score tied at 2-2 going into the third period. With just ten minutes left in the game, Mike Eruzione scored the go-ahead goal. The American team held on for the final minutes of the game, winning 4-3 and securing a spot in the gold medal game.
The Legacy of the Miracle on Ice
The Miracle on Ice was a defining moment in American sports history. The United States Men's ice hockey team went on to win the gold medal, defeating Finland in the final game. The victory was not just a triumph for the team, but for the entire country. It gave Americans a renewed sense of pride and patriotism during a difficult time in the nation's history.
Ralph Cox played a vital role in the team's success, even though he did not score any goals during the Olympic tournament. His speed and defensive skills helped the American team win key games during the tournament, and his contribution to the team should not be overlooked.
Conclusion
The 1980 United States Men's ice hockey team will always be remembered for their incredible victory over the Soviet Union. The team's success was due to a combination of talent, determination, and hard work. Ralph Cox was a key part of that team, and his contribution to the Miracle on Ice should not be forgotten.
