: Hockey News:
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As if Herb Brooks needed anything more to be permanently etched into Lake Placid and USA Hockey history.
The man who orchestrated one of the greatest moments in sporting history will have his name affixed to the rink where he and 20 players manufactured a miracle that will stand the test of time.
With Brooks wife Patti, son Dan and daughter Kelly on hand, New York Governor George Pataki dedicated the 1980 Rink in honor of Brooks, who died in a car crash in 2003.
Im just really proud, Patti Brooks said afterwards. [Herb] was very, very humble. He wouldnt have liked it. I dont think he ever understood the impact. He was just incredulous. It was shocking to him, and Im just overwhelmed.
The dedication wrapped up a two-week celebration of the 25th anniversary of the 1980 Winter Olympic Games, which culminated with a tribute show appropriately titled, A Night of Miracles, Memories, and Magic.
A total of 35 Olympians from the 1980 Winter Games, including 18 members of the Miracle on Ice hockey team, were on hand to celebrate the silver anniversary.
Its hard to believe it was 25 years ago, said Mike Eruzione, captain of the 1980 U.S. Team. It was a special time in our lives and were happy to be back to celebrate it.
The plaque reads:
In memory of the man who is a symbol of America, this ice arena will forevermore combine the name of the coach who stood his ground, the players who together executed the unimaginable and the ice upon which that magical moment transpired. The 1980 Hockey Teams victory is part of the intrigue of Lake Placid and holds its rightful and significant place in Olympic history.
Let the memories, words and accomplishments pay tribute to all that is right in sport. Let them represent not only Coach Brooks, but all the athletes of the 1980 games, as well as the countless volunteers and staff who created the backdrop
whereby MIRACLES OCCUR.