Mike Eruzione praises U.S. women’s hockey team for victory over Canada
Mike Eruzione, team captain of the 1980 U.S. men’s hockey team, talks about Olympic hockey and praises the U.S. women’s hockey team, which just won the gold medal.
The gold medal-winning U.S. women’s hockey team declined the White House’s offer to attend Tuesday’s State of the Union address, citing “timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments.”
The women’s team won the gold medal with a come-from-behind 2-1 overtime victory over Canada, with Hilary Knight breaking the U.S. Olympic scoring record and Megan Keller scoring the winning goal.
The U.S. men’s team defeated Canada on Sunday to win the gold medal with a 2-2 record.
President Donald Trump then called the men’s team, invited these players to the State of the Union address and visit the White House, and offered to transport them on a military plane.
He also said on a conference call, “I have to say, we’re going to have to bring a women’s team, you know that?”
The president added, “I’m pretty sure I’ll probably be impeached.”
A USA Hockey spokesperson said the women’s team received an invitation but will not be able to participate.
“We sincerely appreciate the invitation to join the gold medal-winning U.S. women’s hockey team and are deeply grateful for the recognition of their extraordinary accomplishments,” the spokesperson said. “Due to timing and academic and professional commitments scheduled after the Olympics, the athletes are unable to participate. They are honored to participate and grateful for the recognition.”
The Women’s Professional Hockey League has a game on Thursday, and the U.S. team’s college hockey players have a game on Friday. The NHL season resumes on Wednesday.
