Frank Thomas

Notable Sports Figures
1980 U.S. Men’s Olympic Hockey Team
ABC commentator Al Michaels as he shouted the gleeful
question “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!” The victory,
as well as those famous words, have now become
an unforgettable part of sports history.
On To Victory
The task for the U.S. team was not complete however.
Two days later, on Sunday February 24th, the Americans
faced Finland for the Gold medal. Once again the Americans
fell behind in the game. After two periods they were
trailing 2-1. Returning to the ice for the third period the
U.S. team found themselves with a familiar goal deficit.
Inspired by their victory over the Soviets, and the emotion
and support of the home crowd and the prospect of
claiming gold, the U.S. squad exploded. They scored
three unanswered goals in that final period and completed
the incredible feat of securing Olympic Gold.
Perhaps the most indelible images of the “Miracle On
Ice” were provided by the medal ceremony. Team captain
Mike Eruzione stood alone atop the medal stand
while his teammates were aligned behind him. The “Star
Spangled Banner” played and the flag of the United
States was raised prominently above those of the Soviet
1980 U.S. Men’s Olympic Hockey Team
Union and Finland, the Silver and Bronze medal finalists
respectively. All the players stood with their hands
over their hearts singing enthusiastically. Upon completion
of the anthem, an exuberant Eruzione turned to his
team and beckoned them to the stand. All twenty players
squeezed onto the platform embracing and holding their
fingers aloft in the classic “number one” sign.
Miracles Do Happen with Team Work
The accomplishment of the 1980 U.S. Men’s Olympic
hockey team served to boost the nation’s spirit, patriotism,
and hope during a darker period of the country’s history.
Their victory did not drive down gas prices or inflation, it
did not free the U.S. hostages in Iran, and it did not drive
the Soviet Army out of Afghanistan. It did however serve to
inspire the nation. It showed that adversity could be overcome
and gave the nation hope in a time of hopelessness.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Periodicals
“1980 U.S. hockey team lights Olympic flame.” Newstribune
(February 9, 2002): 6C.
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