On Saturday, Feb. 22, the USA Men’s National Hockey Team faced off against their biggest rival, Canada, in the highly anticipated Four Nations Faceoff NHL tournament. Within the first nine seconds of the game, three fights broke out between the two teams. 

Many people think this fight broke out due to the Canadian crowd booing during the U.S. national anthem. Jake Biehl ‘28 said “The fights showed they wanted to fight for their country, they wanted to represent.” These first nine seconds set the tone for the rest of the game fueling team USA.

Throughout the game, the physicality did not stop, both teams were hungry for more. “Three fights right away, and bodies were flying for the rest of the game” said Robert Engel ‘25. The rivalry in this game was clear. Both teams wanted to destroy each other.  With USA’s gritty playstyle they were able to beat Canada in a tough match 3-1. Although the USA came out victorious in this game, the same might not be said for the fight for gold.  Biehl says “The game will be more intense”.

On Monday, Feb .24, USA and Canada had their rematch. Except this time, it was for the championship. Coming into this game both teams were hungry for gold. This game had high expectations after Saturday’s intense game. By the end of regulation, the game was all tied up at two.

Going into overtime, the US were expected to pull away with the game, but with a stud performance from team Canada’s goalie, Canada’s forward Connor McDavid scored the game winner for Canada. John Parsons ‘28 said “I threw my popcorn in the air, I was very excited and started hugging my parents”. 

Although team Canada came out with the win, this all-star tournament exceeded expectations and was a total of seven thrilling games.