Donald Trump kept his word, after a long night in Miami and a snowstorm that changed their travel plans, Team USA’s Olympic men’s hockey champions were flown to Washington, DC on a US Air Force 757 sent by the President himself. The team had just won their first Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey since 1980, and Trump had promised to host them at the White House.
On Tuesday morning at 9am, the players left their South Beach hotel and boarded the military jet. This happened just five hours after they returned from a night out in Miami Beach. Photos and video obtained by the Daily Mail showed the players walking out in matching Team USA sweaters and blue Nike sneakers.
Buffalo Sabres forward Tage Thompson and Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews were among those seen leaving the hotel. Even after a little sleep, the players carried their gold medals proudly. Many also carried coffee cups as they headed to Washington for their meeting with President Donald Trump.
Jack Hughes, Connor Hellebuyck lead Team USA celebrations before Washington trip
Before boarding the Air Force jet, the celebration in Miami was loud and joyful. After their flight was diverted to South Florida because of snow along the Atlantic Coast, the team checked into 1 Hotel South Beach on Monday.
Soon after arriving, players went to the rooftop pool, took photos with fans, and enjoyed drinks together. Later, they were seen smoking cigars in the hotel lobby before heading out into Miami Beach, where crowds waited outside to see them.
The team had dinner at COTE Miami and then visited E11EVEN Miami. According to the Daily Mail, the party lasted until early morning. Players sprayed champagne, sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and celebrated their gold medal win.
At one point, a replay of Jack Hughes’ overtime goal against Canada played inside the club. The crowd cheered loudly when it appeared on the screen.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, who made 41 saves in the gold medal game, grabbed the microphone and told the crowd, “Are we having a good time tonight? Can I get a round of applause for my teammates? They battled so hard. Every single guy in here. Every detail mattered this entire trip.
We did this not only for us, we wanted to bring gold to you guys. We want to celebrate the US f***ing A. So enjoy this one with us tonight. We’re having a good time. I know you’re having a good time. This is for the USA. ”
When asked if the players were tired, a source told the Daily Mail, “F*** no. They’re hockey players. They get their teeth banged out. They’re on adrenaline and on a high.”
By 4am, the team returned to the hotel. Just a few hours later, they were on their way to Washington to celebrate at the White House.
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