Herb Brooks - Coached Usa Team At Olympics

In 2002, Brooks was selected to coach the U.S. Olympic hockey team again. The challenges he faced this time were much different than in 1980. By this time, professionals were allowed to play in the Olympics, so his team was primarily composed of older NHL veterans. Brooks' job focused on getting the Americans to adjust to the wider ice surface and different style of play. He let them play their own game, but got them to play together. However, there was no miracle this time. Team USA won the silver medal, losing to the Canadian team 5-2 in the gold medal game. As Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald wrote, "He commands a certain respect for being able to do the unthinkable. Even Team Canada coach Pat Quinn talked this week about 'Herbie magic'. Brooks is that rare X-Factor."