22 February 1980 - United States vs. Soviet Union (1 Viewer)

[BLReed]

Thirty-six years ago today, a group of young men brought hope to a nation in desperate need of a miracle moment. The 1980 U.S. Men’s Olympic hockey team defeated the Soviet Union 4-3 in the final moments of the game. The game, played in Lake Placid, N.Y., was set against the backdrop of the Iranian hostage crisis and the Soviets’ recent invasion of Afghanistan. No one gave the U.S. team of college hockey players a chance against the seasoned players of the USSR, especially since the men’s hockey team had only claimed one gold medal in the span of the winter games. Under the instruction of coach Herb Brooks the team overcame their challenges and infighting and not only beat the Soviet Union but went on to win the gold medal against Finland.

The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame has the whole miraculous story.
http://www.ushockeyhalloffame.com/page/show/831562-the-1980-u-s-olympic-team

 

[Larry Allen]

I often hear people say that they remember "exactly" where they were the day that the US team defeated the Soviet Union. I DO!

My wife and I went to a dinner at a local restaurant. The dining room was on one side and a small bar was on the other. The restaurant was pretty full, but I recall seeing the place start to empty out and everyone was heading to the bar. Strange part was that hardly anyone had finished their meals. The poor waitresses were bringing out food and no one was there.

Someone came into the dining side and announced(actually screamed in excitement) that the US team had just taken the lead and there was only 9 minutes left in the game. The bar probably held 30 - 35 but at that moment there were easily 60 people crammed into the space, eyes glued to the Television. During the last 60 seconds, EVERYONE counted down until the last second then the place erupted in cheers and back slapping.

To top it off, the owner announced free drinks for everyone. We were there for 4 hours since no one wanted to leave.

Thanks for the GREAT memories!

--- LaRRy

 

[lancer]

It is and remains my all-time favorite sports event/memory, for what it represented and what it meant to this country. There is nothing else in sports that has ever come close to this achievement, for me. -- Al

 

[nysoldiers]

Also a great memory....during my brother's wedding party.

 

[hotel3alpha]

Gents,

I was 8 and playing hockey at the Broadmoor. I remember being scared of Nuclear War, but I don't remember watching the game. I was not until later in life did I learn about the feat of the Olympic Team.

John from Texas