Miracle On Ice 45 Years Later and Its Faith Reminders

In February 1980, the United States was to hold the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, NY. The country was on the brink of many disasters, which included an energy crisis, a failed attempt to rescue hostages in Iran, and everything in between. America needed something that would bring everyone together.

The summer before the international sporting competition was to take place, a hockey coach from the University of Minnesota, Herb Brooks, was hired by the Team USA committee to lead the men’s hockey team. During the tryouts, he picked his roster of 26 men, which would later be reduced to a mandatory 20 men by the beginning of the event.

These amateur athletes, many of whom were college-aged men, hailed from mainly either Minnesota or Boston University.

The team overcame a near loss to Sweden, but they were able to flourish in a much-anticipated match against the Soviet Union, who were favored to win. In the end, team USA accomplished the impossible by defeating the Soviet Union 4-3. Even Brooks would tell his team before the biggest game of their lives, “Great moments are born from great opportunities.”

The Miracle on Ice phenomenon in the Winter Olympics gives us five lessons on how it correlates with the message of faith.

Unwavering Belief and Overcoming Adversity

The team was labeled underdogs. Yet, underdogs are hungry for more. Faith encourages us to achieve the impossible.

Mark Johnson, who scored two goals in the pivotal game, reflected on this day when he said, “I know that my value doesn't lie in winning championships but in who I am in Christ.”

When we humble our hearts and give it all to Christ, we make an act of faith and trust that Jesus will work wonders.

Power of Unity

The team came together under one goal. They wanted to win the gold medal. All it took was going out there and beating the Soviets. The team came together.  The team was never a one-man show. It was a combined team effort to achieve greatness.

Likewise, we need the help of holy priests, spiritual directors, and even faith-loving family and friends to help us achieve our goal of sanctity before we enter heaven.

Lead with Inspiration

Herb Brooks was the architect of putting together a group of young amateurs and molding them into fierce and tenacious competitors. He did it because he saw potential in each of them. He encourages his team repeatedly.  He learned from his team while they learned from him.

At times, Brooks pushed them. He pushed them to achieve greatness. The team didn’t believe it at first. Yet, they began to believe in him and each other.

Yes, we believe in miracles. They happen every day. When we place our trust and faith in God, he will work wonders.