The US women’s hockey team was once again led by a shining Knight. Hilary Knight, who has won five Olympic gold medals with the US team, helped them remain undefeated in this year’s Olympics, en route to their fifth consecutive gold medal.
Knight has been so crucial for the recent years’ success of the American squad that it is no surprise everyone is talking about her leadership before any major competition. And talk they did— everyone from fellow hockey players to reporters were discussing how much influence she has had over the US team ever since claiming the first gold in 1998 in Nagano when she was just 18 years-old. No one can deny her contribution to women’s hockey in general— during that game 16 years ago which turned out to be her first game with the US team, Knight recorded the game-winning goal and an assist in a 5–2 victory over Canada.
Knight was not only named best forward in the games after recording seven goals and five assists but also won the Directorate Award for Best Player of the tournament (the equivalent to FIFA’s Golden Ball) becoming just one of six athletes that have received all three awards.
Since then she has led women’s ice hockey teams to four more Olympic gold medals, eight consecutive world championships, 26 international tournaments with 68 total points (34g, 34a), and is known as one of the most decorated players in any sport. As captain of both Boston College and New Hampshire college she set records for career points (289), goals (145), and assists (144).
As if Knight’s accolades were not enough, she also has a passion for community outreach. She recently launched her own non-profit organization with the mission to inspire young girls in sport by encouraging participation, promoting leadership, and providing positive sports experiences. Her work with young people is another example of how Knight has become one of the most respected athletes in America.
Knight continued her dominance during this year’s Olympics by leading all players in scoring with 14 points including six goals and eight assists. After just three games her name was already being mentioned among history’s greats such as Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, Mario Lemiuex, Bobby Orr who are the only others to ever surpass 14 points in a single olympic tournament.
Knight and her teammates sported great teamwork and camaraderie throughout the games, culminating in a shootout victory over Canada for their 20th consecutive Olympic win — an all-time record of any U.S. team sport at the Olympics or world championships. The US women’s hockey team is once again led by a shining knight – Cammi Knight who has carried on this tradition since 1998.
