4 of 19

Miracle On Ice

“Do you believe in miracles?” Most people alive in 1980 know sportscaster Al Michaels’ call of the Miracle on Ice hockey game by heart. In fact, most people know where they were when the game was played. To understand the thrill that lingers 34 years later, you have to remember how dominant the Soviet Union hockey team was: They had won the previous four gold medals heading into the Lake Placid Games. They even defeated the U.S. team in exhibition play 10-3 weeks before the Olympics. Throw two countries embattled in a Cold War together on the ice, and the movie script writes itself. So when this team of unknown amateurs upset the Soviets in a medal round game, it brought the nation to its feet. Many people forget the U.S. team actually had to go on to beat Finland for the gold medal. It’s no wonder Sports Illustrated named it the best moment in sports in the 20th century. Who are we to disagree?



