BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Hockey fans across the country, including here in Western New York, were over the moon Sunday morning as the U.S. men’s hockey team secured the gold medal in the championship game against Canada.
The victory was 46 years in the making. Forty-six years ago, the underdog Americans stunned the world in what would become known as the “Miracle on Ice,” when the U.S. defeated the Soviet Union during the 1980 Olympics.
“It’s a once in a lifetime experience,” said Team USA fan Tim Privitera. “You could never imagine this to happen again in your life. It’s just awesome.”
Team USA defeated Team Canada 2-1 in overtime thanks to a goal from Jack Hughes.
“Electric. I can’t catch my breath,” said fan Scott Doster. “Unbelievable. I have shivers still.”
Fans flocked to Southern Tier Brewing in downtown Buffalo to watch the action. On Saturday, Gov. Kathy Hochul directed the state liquor authority to suspend enforcement from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. so fans could gather for the big game.
“We really appreciate the opportunity to have these fans come in,” said Southern Tier Brewing General Manager Joseph Creegan. “To have the environment to have a drink and enjoy this game like anybody would on any other day if it were happening at a later time is great.”
This matchup was especially meaningful for Buffalonians as they got to see Buffalo Sabre Tage Thompson fight for a gold medal. Thompson capped off his Olympic debut with 3 goals and 1 assist, and the title of Olympic champion.
“It’s going to be amazing to see him come back,” said fan Heather Williams. “He played such a hard game, and it’s been crazy seeing him play against his teammate. They’re going to come back, play together, and I’m so excited for them.”
Thompson’s Olympic run lit a spark in the next generation, showing young hockey fans what’s possible.
“Seeing someone from your hometown do something so amazing, it inspires you,” said fan Allie Pawlewski.
For other fans, this was not just a game on an international stage — it was a moment that meant so much more.
“Seeing these NHL teams come together and play for their countries on different sides of the ice but also seeing the camaraderie,” said Williams. “As a country, we need something like that right now.”
Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.