The International Ice Hockey Federation announced today that the 2026 U.S. Olympic Men’s and Women’s Ice Hockey Teams, together with the U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey Team, have been honored with the 2026 Bob Johnson Award, recognizing their unprecedented dominance on the world stage.
A Golden Hat Trick in Milan
At the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Milan, Team USA completed a historic golden hat trick, capturing gold in the women’s tournament, the men’s tournament, and the Paralympic sled hockey competition. The women’s squad finished 6‑1‑0‑0, with Hilary Knight and Megan Keller delivering the decisive goals, while the men’s side posted a 4‑2‑0‑0 record, highlighted by Jack Hughes’ overtime winner. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was named the tournament’s Best Goaltender and earned a spot on the Media All‑Star Team. Veteran forward Quinn Hughes contributed a key assist, and defenseman Caroline Harvey and forward Hannah Bilka added depth throughout the roster. Goaltender Laila Edwards also turned in strong early‑game performances for the women’s team.
The Paralympic sled hockey team continued its reign, securing a fifth straight gold medal with a perfect 5‑0‑0‑0 record. Jack Wallace sparked the final with a four‑point hat trick, and Griffin LaMarre chipped in with a crucial goal. Declan Farmer shattered tournament records, finishing with 15 goals and 26 points to claim MVP honors.
These achievements reflect the breadth of talent cultivated across the United States, from training camps in Colorado Springs and Sun Valley to development programs in Cleveland Heights, Farmington, Commerce, Canton, and beyond. USA Hockey, the sport’s national governing body, coordinated the athletes’ preparation and emphasized a unified approach that blended tradition with innovation.
The award ceremony, held in Milan’s historic Palazzo della Fiera, celebrated not only the athletes but also the coaches, families, and supporters who made the achievements possible. As the United States looks ahead to the next cycle, the golden hat trick serves as a benchmark for future generations.