Team USA Captain Under Fire For Lack Of Sportsmanship While Accepting Gold At World Juniors
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Tom Banks
Jan 5, 2024 (7:23 PM)
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Photo credit: Team USA Hockey
After a strong tournament, the 2024 World Juniors came down to the two pre-tournament favorites in Sweden and the USA, but ultimately, it was the US that prevailed by a score of 6-2, winning their sixth gold at the tournament.
Team USA dominate Sweden in the Gold Medal Game
Team USA lived up to the pre-tournament hype, but during their victory, several instances have been brought up of this team not showing the type of class that a Champion team should.
Firstly was defenseman Sam Rinzel, who would score to put the team up big before doing an over-the-top celebration and blowing a kiss to the Swedish crowd, and while it doesn't sound too bad, it just wasn't necessary.
Team USA's captain shows no class in victory
Next was captain Rutger Mcgroarty, who would accept his gold medal by doing a ridiculous dance at the same time, and while there's celebrations that are acceptable, this was just a touch too far.
Ultimately, it won't effect how he's viewed by the larger hockey community, as it is an event for junior players after all, but if he wants to make it big at the next level and gain respect, this is just something that wasn't necessary.
As Read on Oilers Daily - Team USA Captain shows no class while accepting gold at World Juniors
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