The Olympic gold medal-winning U.S. men’s hockey team visited the White House on Tuesday and later received a bipartisan standing ovation during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address.
Trump praised the players for their historic achievement and announced that the U.S. women’s hockey team, which also defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime to win gold, will visit the White House soon. The women’s team declined to attend the State of the Union because of scheduling conflicts.
As the men’s team entered the House chamber, lawmakers from both parties stood and chanted “USA,” with some pumping their fists in celebration. Republican House Conference Chair Lisa McClain shouted “Love you!” toward the players.
“I want to thank you all,” Trump told the team. “What a special job you did. What special champions you are.”
Trump also revealed that goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, who stopped 41 shots in the gold medal game, will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honour. Hellebuyck placed his hand over his heart as the chamber applauded.
Earlier in the day, the players were welcomed to the White House and posed for photos along the West Wing colonnade before entering the Oval Office. Videos shared by Trump administration aides showed the team flashing their gold medals near the press office doors and celebrating with staff.
“I recognize every one of you. I know every one of you,” Trump said as he shook hands with the players, who wore dark tops marked with “USA,” the American flag and the Olympic rings.
The team won gold with a dramatic 2-1 overtime victory over Canada at the Milan Cortina Olympics, marking the first U.S. men’s hockey gold medal since the “Miracle on Ice” at Lake Placid in 1980.
Forward Matthew Tkachuk greeted Trump with “Good to see you again,” during his third White House visit in just over a year following consecutive Stanley Cup victories with the Florida Panthers. For several other players, it was their first time visiting the White House.
The team returned from Italy on Monday, landing in Miami to a heroes’ welcome. They dined together in Miami Beach and later visited a nightclub where hundreds of fans gathered to celebrate their victory.
“Our sport just got the biggest stage in the world of sport,” said Panthers general manager Bill Zito, an assistant GM for the Olympic team. “That’s wonderful. And we need to celebrate it.”
