Congratulations To Team U.S.A. Hockey

The American team, a heavy underdog, came within one shot of winning an Olympic gold medal in hockey at Vancouver.

This inspiring and surprising showing will have tremendous benefits to the sport in the U.S.A. As a former owner of the Tri City Americans of the Western Hockey League I am very aware of how hockey needs it’s profile raised.

The U.S.A. team was given little chance before the tournament. One pro hockey scout of my acquaintance said only five or six U.S. players could make the favored Canadian or Russian teams. Other analysts put the number as low as three or four players who could crack the Canadian lineup.

This realistic assessment rather than being an insult to the Americans is a high compliment. They made up with heart and teamwork for what they lacked in talent.

Finally, it should be noted, the players received no money for competing in the Olympics. They played for love of the game and an Olympic medal.