MILAN – The conversation Brock Nelson had with his grandfather when he informed him of his selection to the U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team was described as “an emotional one filled with tears,” Nelson recounted on Wednesday afternoon at the Starbucks Winter House.
Bill Christian, Nelson’s 88-year-old grandfather, was a forward on the United States team that secured the nation’s inaugural gold medal in men’s hockey at the 1960 Olympic Winter Games held in California.
“There were many tears,” Nelson stated. “I could sense he was getting emotional on the phone. It was significant because he has always been such an inspiring figure for me. I recall skating with him during my childhood in Warroad (Minnesota). He remains my biggest supporter, watching my games daily. He has never pressured me, and he supports me unconditionally.”
Just think about their next conversation after Nelson’s impressive debut for Team USA on Thursday night, where the Americans triumphed over Latvia, 5-1, at Milano Santagiulia Arena. Nelson recorded two goals, despite having an earlier goal in the first period, which was beautifully deflected, disallowed due to a challenge from the Latvia coach.
"I felt all the emotions coming out there,” Nelson remarked. “I was just trying to absorb the moment. This opportunity means everything to me, so I was extremely excited to get out there and start playing."
And who reached out to Nelson, who reminisced about his childhood in Warroad after the game, shortly after the victory?
“I received a text from (grandpa) saying good game and checking in, so I look forward to calling him and catching up,” Nelson shared.
Nelson is a third-generation Olympian for Team USA, following the legacy of his grandfather and uncle, Dave Christian, who earned a gold medal as part of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team. His great uncle, Roger Christian, also contributed to the U.S. winning gold at the 1960 Olympic Winter Games, while another great uncle, Gordon Christian, secured silver at the Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.
Bill, or grandpa as Nelson refers to him, recorded two goals and 11 assists in seven games during the 1960 Olympic Winter Games. Notably, both of Bill’s goals were scored in a single game, marking the United States’ first victory against the Soviet Union.
“It is an incredible story,” stated Mike Sullivan, head coach of the U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team. “He has had a fantastic start to the tournament here. I am delighted for him, but his family history is a remarkable hockey narrative. We couldn’t be prouder of him. I am certain his family is thrilled with the impact he has made on this team so far in the tournament; it is a wonderful story.”
Nelson’s offensive contributions for the U.S. on Thursday helped to break a 1-1 tie in the second period. He may just be getting started in Milan after already scoring 29 goals for the Colorado Avalanche this season.
“Great start,” said Nelson, the oldest U.S. player at 34 years old. “The first period was solid. We came out with good energy. We got the first goal, and although a couple were overturned, I thought we responded well. We maintained our focus, regained control in the second, and took charge of the game. I believe everyone contributed; all the lines and special teams performed well, including power play and penalty kill, marking a strong start for the tournament.”
Jack Hughes understands the familial connections at the Olympics. Not only is Jack playing alongside his brother, Quinn, but their mother, Ellen, serves as a player development consultant for the U.S. Olympic Women’s Ice Hockey Team.
Jack assisted on both of Nelson’s goals, playing on the fourth line with him and J.T. Miller.
“You look around the team, there are NHL All-Stars on every line,” Hughes noted. “Elite players are present, which is the reality for USA moving forward. With the depth of talent we possess, each game will tell a different story, and various players will rise to the occasion. We have a deep team across all positions.”
Nelson’s impact extended beyond the scoresheet. His two-way play was also impressive on Thursday, as he contributed to the U.S. achieving a perfect 3-for-3 on the penalty kill.
“He's a complete player with scoring vision, making him a significant threat,” remarked goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
The U.S. will face Denmark on Saturday at 3:10 p.m. ET (USA Network | Peacock).
Nelson outlined the objective moving forward is to continue striving for improvement as the Olympics progress.
“Continue to build,” Nelson stated. “We understand what leads to our success. We observed in the second (period) that getting all the defensemen active, maintaining puck possession in the offensive zone, cycling down low, providing good support, and excelling in special teams are crucial. We need to keep emphasizing that, as it can be the deciding factor between winning and losing in tournaments like this.
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