The Miracle on Ice will always be remembered as one of the greatest moments in American sports history. But most people don’t know that captain Mike Eruzione went out for beers the day before the big game.
February 22 is a special day for any American who loves sports. That was the day when Team USA, made up of amateur players, defeated the seemingly invincible Soviet Union.
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Miracle on ice in Lake Placid
The four-time defending gold medalists from the Soviet Union were heavily favored, but Team USA managed to win the game 4–3. The victory was not only an athletic triumph but also a significant cultural moment, coming in the midst of the Cold War. Team USA went on to win the Olympic gold after a win against Finland in the final game. The American players became national heroes, and several went on to have successful NHL careers.
Mike Eruzione, however, did not pursue a professional hockey career after winning Olympic gold. He was an excellent player but felt he had already accomplished his ultimate goal. He approached the big game against the Soviets like a college player—by relaxing with a few beers the night before.
Mike Eruzione drank beer
Appearing as a guest on the Wingmen podcast, hosted by Matthew Tkachuk and Brady Tkachuk, Eruzione recalled the night before the now-iconic game:
“The night before the Soviet game, I wanted to go see my mother and father. A State Police officer drove me to the campsite where my parents were. I had five or six beers and hung out with my dad. My dad played the guitar at night. I think I got back to the village around 11; curfew was like 10. It was a way for me to relax before the game. Went back to the village and back to my trailer. Billy, Phil, and Jimmy were still up, and we just kind of chatted, went to bed, and got ready for the game the next day. I was having a few beers with my family and friends,” Eruzione recalled.
Just legendary stuff! You can watch the interview below.
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