The United States men’s hockey team captured their third Olympic gold medal on Sunday with a victory over Canada, continuing a family tradition that spans decades. Each of these winning teams featured a member of the Christian family: starting with brothers Roger and Bill Christian in 1960, followed by Bill’s son Dave Christian in the 1980 Lake Placid Games, and now, in 2026, Dave’s nephew Brock Nelson has added a third gold for Team USA. Brock Nelson’s achievement in the Olympics has carried deep personal meaning as he looks forward to sharing this milestone with his grandfather.
Brock Nelson Reflects on Emotional Connection with Grandfather
Nelson expressed to NHL.com’s Dan Rosen how proud his grandfather is and how meaningful it will be to connect after the victory.
“It’s going to be special. It’ll be a fun conversation when I get to call him. I know he’ll be choked up, which will make me choke up. He means the world to me. Yeah, crazy to be here now and share this with him. I know he’s at home watching and not here, but my uncle is here and he was emotional. It’s going to be really fun to see my grandpa and embrace him,”
Nelson said.
Family History and Presence at the Games
Due to travel difficulties at age 88, Bill Christian was unable to attend the Milan Games, while Roger Christian, Bill’s brother and a co-founder of Christian Brothers hockey sticks, passed away in 2011. Dave Christian, who was part of the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” team, was present to celebrate the latest gold medal and shared his amazement with Rosen:
“It’s incredible. Absolutely incredible. A dream come true.”
Brock Nelson Seizes a Rare Olympic Opportunity
For Nelson, who has spent most of his career without the chance to participate in the Olympics because of NHL regulations, this gold medal likely marks his final Olympic appearance. He acknowledged the rarity of such an opportunity:
“I’m not naïve to think I’m not old in the game. To have this opportunity, I mean for me, once in a lifetime. I’m forever grateful for the opportunity. You never know how long you’re going to play. You don’t know if you’re going to get an opportunity. But here we are.”
Nelson made a significant impact by scoring two goals during the round robin phase, helping secure the title.
Community Pride in Warroad, Minnesota
With Nelson’s triumph, Warroad, Minnesota, boasts another Olympic gold medal champion, adding to the town’s rich hockey heritage. This victory carries emotional weight not only for Nelson and his family but also for the broader community that has supported these players and their continued success on the world stage.
