Minnesota, it's time to celebrate! Both the U.S. men's and women's hockey teams have brought home Olympic gold, each clinching thrilling overtime victories against Canada, with significant contributions from our very own Minnesota players.
Picture this: driving through town and feeling the hockey buzz in the air, or flying into Minneapolis-St. Paul and spotting backyard rinks dotting the snowy landscape. From the 24-hour rinks in Warroad to friends investing in goalie gear for their kids, and even those still battling it out in men's leagues, hockey is more than a sport here-it's a way of life.
February 22nd is a day for all nearly 6 million Minnesotans to remember. From International Falls to Albert Lea, Lake City to Luverne, we've done it-twice!
The U.S. women's team secured their gold on February 19th, followed by the men's team three days later in Milan, both edging out Canada in nail-biting 2-1 overtime wins.
On the women's side, Lake City’s own Taylor Heise, a former Gopher and two-time PWHL champion, delivered a clutch assist to Megan Keller, who danced past a defender to score the golden goal. On the men’s side, Zach Werenski initiated a breakout from behind the net, setting up Jack Hughes to seal the deal with a pinpoint shot.
This triumph echoes the legendary Miracle on Ice from 46 years ago. Back then, Jim Craig's heroics in goal were unforgettable, and now Connor Hellebuyck has matched that magic, stopping 41 shots to keep Canada at bay. His performance deserves free dinners for life!
Breaking a 46-year drought calls for celebration, and maybe even another Congressional Gold Medal for this team’s heroics. As Lou Nanne put it, "Isn't that phenomenal?" The U.S. women’s team looks unstoppable, and they’re poised for future dominance.
Minnesota's influence was undeniable. Taylor Heise, Lee Stecklein, Kelly Pannek, Grace Zumwinkle, and Rory Guliday shone for the women, while Brock Faber, Jake Guentzel, Jackson LaCombe, Brock Nelson, and Jake Oettinger represented on the men’s side. The Wild's own Boldy, Faber, and Quinn Hughes made their mark, with Hughes earning accolades as the tournament's best defender.
Kudos to Wild GM Bill Guerin for assembling the perfect roster and to coach John Hynes for orchestrating a flawless penalty kill. This Olympic run was a true testament to Minnesota's hockey heart and soul.