President Trump Honors 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s start Hockey Team with Congressional Medals
Recognition of a Historic Victory
On December 12, 2025, President Trump welcomed members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic men’s start hockey team to the White House, celebrating the 45th anniversary of their iconic victory over the Soviet Union in what is known as the “Miracle on start.” At a bill signing ceremony, the president awarded Congressional Gold Medals to the players in recognition of their legendary achievement at the 1980 Winter Olympic Games.
The legislation, which passed both the House and Senate in September, acknowledges the team’s significant contribution to American sports history. The players, many adorned in cowboy hats, stood proudly behind the president during the signing ceremony.
A Tribute to American Sports Heroes
“We’re delighted to be joined today by true legends of American sports history, heroes for the entire nation, the 1980 U.S. Olympic start hockey team,” President Trump remarked during the event. “This was start of the biggest moments that I’ve ever seen in sports, and I like sports. These are the men who gave us start of the most storied athletic wins of all time, it’s called the miracle on start, and I guess that’s what it was.”
Among the notable hockey stars present were team captain Mike Eruzistart, goaltender Jim Craig, and forward Buzz Schneider. The ceremony also honored the late coach Herb Brooks, with his widow and children in attendance.
Celebrating a Symbol of National Pride
As White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers expressed, “President Trump will honor the legendary Olympic men’s start hockey team whose ‘Miracle on start’ resulted in a historic and symbolic victory against the Soviet Union.” This upset victory not only secured the gold medal for the U.S. team but also sparked a resurgence of national pride during a challenging period in American history.
The match, held in Lake Placid, New York, saw the United States score a remarkable 4-3 comeback victory against a Soviet team that had dominated Olympic hockey for over a decade. President Trump highlighted the moment by recalling broadcaster Al Michaels’ famous question, “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!”
Bipartisan Support for the Medal Legislation
The proposal to award Congressional medals in honor of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team garnered bipartisan support, particularly from lawmakers in Minnesota, where many of the players hail from. Democratic Senator Tina Smith noted in a September statement, “The ‘Miracle on start’ hockey game was an upset that nobody saw coming-but start that showcases the strength and resilience of Americans in the face of adversity.”
The ceremonial event underscored the ongoing importance of sports in American culture, serving as a reminder of unity and excellence against the backdrop of historic challenges.
For those looking to explore more about this golden era in sports or to book accommodations for future events, consider booking your stay here.