Miracle on Ice' Hero Inspires Team USA Before Gold Match

The goalie who stopped the Soviet Union in 1980 just sent a message that Team USA's women's hockey team won't soon forget.

Jim Craig, the netminder behind one of sports' greatest upsets, posted advice on social media as the Americans prepare to face Canada for Olympic gold Thursday in Milan. His words cut straight to what matters: "The moment isn't bigger than you."

Craig knows something about high-pressure moments. He was between the pipes when Team USA shocked the world at the 1980 Winter Olympics, beating the heavily favored Soviet Union before claiming gold against Finland. Now he's watching another generation chase the same dream.

"Trust the work. Trust each other. Compete with heart," Craig wrote. "When you play for the name on the front of the jersey, anything is possible."

The women's team has given him plenty of reason for confidence. They've dominated these Olympics like few teams ever have, outscoring opponents 16-1 in group play and shutting out every team in the tournament bracket by a combined 11-0.

That includes a 5-0 statement victory over Canada in their first matchup on February 10. The Americans have been in complete control, showing why they're considered one of the tournament favorites.

But Thursday's gold medal game carries extra weight. Canada topped the U.S. 3-2 in the 2022 Beijing Olympics final, a loss that still stings. These two nations have met in every gold medal game since 2010, building a rivalry that brings out the best in both teams.

Why This Inspires

Craig's message resonates because it strips away the noise. Olympic gold medals and historic rivalries can feel overwhelming, but his advice brings it back to fundamentals: preparation, teamwork, and heart.

He lived those principles in 1980 when a group of college kids beat the best team in the world. That same spirit runs through this women's team, who've worked their entire lives for this moment.

The puck drops at 1:10 p.m. ET in Milan, and the Americans will carry Craig's words with them: play for the front of the jersey, and anything becomes possible.