As the 2026 Winter Olympics draw near, members of the 1980 US men's hockey team, known for their legendary victory over the Soviet Union, are vocal about the current political climate.With the release of a new documentary titled "Miracle: The Boys of '80," players like Mike Eruzione, Jim Craig, Buzz Schneider, and Rob McClanahan have taken the opportunity to reflect on both their historic win and the contemporary issues facing the United States today.
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nbcnews.comThe original "Miracle on Ice" game took place during the Cold War, a period marked by heightened tensions between the US and the Soviet Union.The players received emotional telegrams from fans, expressing their hopes for the game.
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sports.yahoo.comOne notable message urged them to "Beat those Commie bastards," showcasing the national pride and fervor surrounding the event.
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sports.yahoo.comCraig reminisced about how these messages fueled their sense of purpose, stating, "They helped us feel how much America felt - how important that win would be.".Eruzione, captain of the 1980 team, expressed a desire for a similar unifying moment in today's politically fragmented environment."We could use an '80 now," he remarked, indicating a longing for collective pride akin to that experienced during their Olympic triumph.
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sports.yahoo.comThe current geopolitical climate, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, has left many, including Eruzione, frustrated.He lamented the loss of life in the conflict, stating, "How many thousands and thousands of people are being killed for no reason at all whatsoever?".
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sports.yahoo.comThe players, who have remained connected to their roots in Minnesota, have also commented on recent local events, such as clashes between federal agents and protesters.Schneider emphasized the need for respect and common sense among people, regardless of differing viewpoints.
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sports.yahoo.comHis sentiments were echoed by McClanahan, who urged for a return to mutual respect in public discourse.
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sports.yahoo.comReflecting on the atmosphere of the 1980 Olympics, Eruzione noted that the team focused solely on hockey, largely insulated from outside political pressures."It wasn't once talked about in the locker room," he said, emphasizing their singular commitment to the game.
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wbur.orgThe players maintained that their historic match against the Soviets was about sports, not politics.Craig added, "The Olympics represented sports where the best athletes in the world got together.There's supposed to be no fighting.".
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sports.yahoo.comHowever, the players are aware that the Olympic Games have often intersected with political issues throughout history.Eruzione recalled the emotional significance of their victory, stating, "It was just an incredible atmosphere," one that stirred national pride and unity.
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sports.yahoo.comIn contrast to the past, the current political landscape is marred by division, which Eruzione and his teammates find disheartening.The 1980 team's legacy resonates even today, with some players having faced backlash for their public appearances and associations in recent years.Eruzione reflected on a controversial moment when he and other players wore "Keep America Great" hats at a campaign rally, admitting that they might not have made that choice had they known it would provoke such strong reactions.
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sports.yahoo.comAs the players prepare to watch the upcoming Olympics, they express optimism for Team USA's representation, hoping athletes will take pride in their country despite the current political climate."They're athletes.They're not political figures," Eruzione pointed out, reinforcing the idea that the focus should remain on sports rather than politics.
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sports.yahoo.comThe "Miracle" players believe that Olympic moments should transcend political divides.Schneider noted that their telegrams served as inspiration, not political statements.Craig reiterated, "It's inspiration." In a time of division, their hope remains that sports can provide a platform for unity and national pride.
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sports.yahoo.comAs the world anticipates the 2026 Winter Olympics, the sentiments of the Miracle on Ice players echo a call for togetherness, showcasing the enduring power of sports in bridging divides.The players' reflections serve as a reminder of the potential for athletic achievement to inspire and unite in even the most challenging times.
