Quick Intro: USA Hockey

USA Hockey has been an association dedicated to expanding interest in hockey across the United States. USA Hockey is a part of the International Ice Hockey Federation.

USA Hockey’s roots begin at the turn of the century. USA Hockey runs national competitions for both girls and boys teams. Interest in the past decade has included the growth of Sunbelt teams, an area not known for hockey until recently.

The spotlight on USA Hockey has always been on their Olympic team. The team’s greatest moment came on its home ice in Lake Placid, New York in the 1980 Winter Olympics. A team composed of college players, the United States on paper was no match for teams like Russia, who fielded older, professional players. The United States would defeat the Russians in the semifinal in what was known as “The Miracle on Ice.” They would go on to defeat Finland and win the gold medal.

From there on a new standard was set. Many NHL players began to play for Team USA. They included Brett Hull, Brian Leetch, Mike Modano and Chris Chelios to name a few. The USA hockey team won the World Cup in 1996 and won the silver medal in the 2002 Winter Olympics.

In the 2010 Winter Olympics the US won the silver medal when they lost in overtime to host Canada 3-2 in the gold medal game. Also in 2010, Team USA defeated Italy 3-2 in the IIHF World Men’s Championship to earn a spot in the 2011 tournament.

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 USA Hockey