Team USA Concludes Impressive Journey at U17 Four Nations as Title Holders

Throughout his extensive career in playing and coaching hockey at various levels, Guy Gosselin had never encountered an experience quite like this.

Gosselin guided the U.S. Under-17 Men’s Select Team to an unblemished record at the 2026 Under-17 Four Nations Tournament, which took place from Aug. 15-19 at Rocknet Arena in Chomutov, Czechia.

Remarkably, only one match concluded in regulation time—a 4-3 victory for the U.S. against Czechia to kick off the tournament. The Americans required overtime to overcome Slovakia and two shootouts for their other victories, including a 5-4 win against Czechia in the final on Wednesday.

With this victory, the Americans claimed their 10th championship title in this tournament’s history.

“Unbelievable,” remarked Gosselin from Grafton, Wisconsin. “I’ve participated in a few of these trips. It’s a learning experience for these players. When you’re performing well, it’s crucial to maintain focus on the game. They showed remarkable resilience and united as a team. Thankfully, we finished at the top.”

Most of the U.S. players were participating in an international tournament for the first time, and there was limited time for them to bond as a cohesive unit.

“I believed the coaching staff did an excellent job in their preparation,” Gosselin stated. “We had some outstanding coaches who understand how this operates. If you lose focus, all of these teams are very strong, and if you allow them back into the game, it can be a challenging night.”

In the championship match, the Czechs demonstrated their strength by taking a 3-0 lead within the first 12 minutes. The Americans responded with three consecutive goals, leveling the score in the second period.

Czechia regained the lead in the second period, but once again, the U.S. fought back. Soren Saumweber netted a goal early in the third period, tying the game at 4-4.

“They truly came together today,” Gosselin commented after the final whistle. “We had a team full of great teammates who wanted to collaborate. They recognized the importance of working as a team rather than individually.”

Once the game proceeded to a shootout, the Americans took control. Aiden Kelly, Dylan Delgado, and Levi Ellingsen all successfully converted their attempts, while Chase Pastor prevented any Czech player from scoring.

Gosselin noted that the coaching staff had demanded a lot from a group of 16-year-olds throughout the week, and his players managed the high-pressure situation effectively.

“Many of them have not encountered the intensity, style of play, and high skill levels before,” he explained. “It took some time. Everyone gradually understood their roles, which evolved as the tournament progressed. It’s fascinating to observe these kids and their development and backgrounds. You never know who will step up and take on a leadership role when needed.”

Captain Jack Riehl from Mars, Pennsylvania, was among those who rose to the occasion for Team USA. He scored the first U.S. goal in the final and was named player of the game. Riehl tallied two goals and two assists during the tournament.

Although he had previously visited Prague for vacation, Riehl had no prior experience with international hockey.

“It was really enjoyable to experience and spend time with all the boys. All the teams here were quite strong,” he stated.

Riehl mentioned that there were few unexpected moments, including some of the international rules and certain foods the Americans consumed during the week.

“There were some questionable items on the buffet,” he joked. “There were a few days when my stomach was a bit unsettled due to the food we were eating, but I had to push through.”

The experiences these teenagers had during the tournament should benefit them as their hockey careers progress.

“Many of the coaches in the locker room after the [championship] game emphasized that you’ve built relationships that will endure, both in the game and beyond,” Gosselin remarked. “We had players on this team who compete against each other throughout the year. Yet, they truly united, all for one and one for all. It was wonderful to witness.”

Regardless of where the players go from this point, Gosselin was impressed with this group.

“Clearly, the skill levels are remarkable,” he stated. “I was astonished by some of the plays made on the ice. They are incredibly intelligent, highly skilled, and yet they are only 16 years old.

“We placed them in situations they may not have encountered before, and we hoped they would rise to the occasion. You can never be certain. I believed we had a mature group of kids who truly came together.”

Story from Red Line Editorial, Inc.