I can remember what I was doing 33 years ago today like it was yesterday. On the Friday night America stunned the Soviets 4-3. Do You Believe in Miracles! That was all and good but if they lost on Sunday to Finland it was possible that they might not even get a medal. Herbie Brooks did another great job in taking this team that was on the highest of high’s and getting them ready for another game. Team USA was down 2-1 going into the 3rd period. I do not remember being too worried. Team USA had come from behind and performed miracles for 2 weeks. I expected they would come through. Mike Eruzione has said that coming into the dressing room after the second period, Herbie Brooks turned to the players, looked at them and said “If you lose this game, you’ll take it to your f-in graves.” He then paused, took a few steps, turned again and said “Your f-in graves.” and walked out. Greatest motivational speech in sports history. They went out and dominated the 3rd period beating Finland 4-2 and winning the gold.

The next weeks issue of Sports Illustrated was awesome- all they had was a picture [above] the picture said it all.