The US ice hockey players who beat the Soviet Union in the 1980 Olympics, in what became known as the ‘Miracle on Ice’, were awarded congressional gold medals by President Donald Trump at the White House on Friday. This rare bipartisan gesture celebrated the team’s historic achievement.
The original 1980 win, when the underdog Americans beat the mighty Soviets 4–3 in Lake Placid, is still remembered as one of the most iconic moments in US sports history. The victory inspired fans, politicians, and sports journalists, and was famously called by broadcaster Al Michaels with the phrase: “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!”
During the White House visit, the team wore the cowboy hats that were part of the 1980 Olympic opening ceremony. Former winger Phil Verchota said it was “an incredible honour” to be recognised in the nation’s capital.
President Trump hosted 13 gold-medal winners, calling them “true legends of American sports” and signed a bill awarding them the congressional gold medal. The medal is the highest civilian honour in the US, given to individuals or groups who have made a lasting impact on American history and culture.
The legislation was introduced in 2024, passed by the House last April, and approved unanimously by the Senate in September. Key players such as captain Mike Eruzione, goalie Jim Craig, and defence star Ken Morrow attended, along with Dan Brooks, son of the late coach Herb Brooks.
Eruzione praised the team’s effort, noting that winning against both the Soviets and Finland in 1980 was a source of great pride. “Putting on a USA jersey is an honour,” he said.
The team’s success is also remembered for its underdog story, as the American roster was mostly amateur players from universities like Minnesota and Boston College, facing professional Soviet stars. Their story inspired a Disney film in 2003 starring Kurt Russell, as well as the 2014 documentary Red Army by Werner Herzog.
The new congressional medals will be displayed in Eveleth, Minnesota; at the Lake Placid Olympic Center, New York; and at the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs.
Dan Brooks summed up the feeling of the day: “My father believed in American hockey players and his country. It’s an honour to represent him.”
