Team USA Men’s Hockey Team Celebrated at the White House
The U.S. men’s hockey team, just back from their Olympic Championship win, received recognition at the White House. President Trump commended the players, saying they had made the nation proud.
On Tuesday, 20 out of 25 team members showcased their hard-won gold medals during a visit to Washington, D.C., right before President Trump’s State of the Union address.
After clinching the gold with a 2-1 overtime victory on Sunday, the team was invited to the capital. Forward Jack Hughes netted the winning goal just under two minutes into the extra period after a tough battle on the ice.
Video footage captured the team as they took photos on the South Lawn and strolled down Trump’s Walk of Fame in the West Wing, accompanied by the sounds of “Free Bird” and “Courtesy of Red, White, and Blue.”
The team continued their visit in the Oval Office, where they were warmly welcomed by the president.
Upon their arrival, Trump remarked, “I know all of you. I know all of you.”
This men’s victory came shortly after the women’s hockey team also topped Canada 2-1 in their own overtime thriller.
President Trump extended an invitation to the women’s team as well, but they had to decline due to their own scheduling issues.
Some notable members of the men’s team, such as Brock Nelson, Jackson Lacombe, Jake Guentzel, Jake Oettinger, and Kyle Connor, weren’t able to attend the White House event.
The team made their way to Washington, D.C., on Air Force Two on Tuesday and, judging by the images, seemed to enjoy themselves. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck was even seen playfully posing with the Secretary of Defense seal.
Despite some American athletes expressing dissent regarding the current political climate, many players from the hockey team asserted their love for the country, garnering significant appreciation from the administration.
Jack Hughes, reflecting on their win, noted, “This is what our country is all about right now. I love America. I love my teammates. It’s unbelievable. America is a hockey brotherhood. It’s very strong, and I’ve had a lot of support from former players. I’m very proud to be an American now.”
