Eruzione Critiques Skier Hess Over Remarks on Representation
Mike Eruzione, known for his pivotal role in the U.S. Olympic hockey team’s “Miracle on Ice” in 1980, expressed strong disapproval of Team USA skier Hunter Hess on Saturday. Eruzione reacted to Hess’s controversial statement regarding his feelings about representing the United States at this year’s Olympics.
Hess, along with teammate Chris Lillis, conveyed regrets about wearing the American flag, linking their discomfort to issues surrounding the Trump administration and its use of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In a post on X, Eruzione remarked, “American snowboarder Hunter Hess says he doesn’t represent his country, but his family and friends. Then don’t wear the U.S. uniform. Maybe you’re just wearing it for your family and friends. Some players don’t understand that.” He has since deleted this message.
The comments from Lillis and Hess stirred significant backlash online. Lillis stated that while she would “never” want to compete for another country, she felt “heartbroken” by the government’s actions. “I love America, and I would never want to represent another country in the Olympics. That being said, athletes often hesitate to voice their political opinions,” she added.
Eruzione continued, sharing his own heartache about the current state of affairs in America. “I’m sure he’s referring to ICE and some of the protests. I think as a country we need to focus on respecting everyone’s rights and treating everyone with love and respect,” he said. “I hope people recognize that the athletes competing in the Olympics are representative of a more positive vision of America.”
Hess echoed these sentiments but noted having “mixed feelings” about representing the U.S. at the Olympics. “I think representing the United States right now brings up mixed emotions. It’s a bit tough,” he acknowledged. “There’s a lot going on that I’m not a big fan of, and I don’t think many people are either.” He emphasized a desire to represent his friends, family, and the values he believes in. “Just because I wear the flag doesn’t mean I support everything happening in America right now.”
Ultimately, Hess expressed a desire to honor those who have supported him along the way. “I want to do it for my friends and family and the people who helped me get to this point.”
