May God Bless Herb Brooks family and keep them close.
What a wonderful coach! Saw the movie "Miracle." He had a very clear and decisive approach to getting his point across and I think it really made an impression on his hockey players. They learned lifelong lessons from him. How proud he must have been. Many blessings to his family.
I watched the movie "Miracle" ,and I cried, not only because Herb was an inspiration, but a dedicated coach.It is so sad that he is now dead.
Just caught the last half hour or so of the film "Miracle" then looked Her Brooks up on the internet when learning he had died. Wonderful film but what a sad ending to a truly remarkable man. RIP.
Bridet Doman, Sheffield, UK
Just seen the movie right now; I know nothing about hockey, but I've seen a great man with a great soul, touching all the others; thank Herb, it seems like I've know you from a long time.
Michele, Milano, Italy
I watch the game with the Soviets over and over. You were my role model for the many years I coached baseball and continue to be an inspiration to me now.
You will be missed.
Thanks for teaching a nation how to dream again.
R.I.P. from four brothers from your hometown of St. Paul, Minnesota. We played at South St. Paul HS in the late 80's and will never forget the impact you had on us as kids growing up in America's Hockey capitol as well as the rest of the Twin Cities, all of Minnesota, an entire nation and a sport. R.I.P. The state of Minnesota still misses you and the impact you had on a place with such a rich heritage in hockey.
Herb made a miracle happen.
Now, he is with God's team.
Thank you Herb for showing that nothing is impossible.
George Vreeland Hill
My boys and I believe that Herb was the best coach in US History - in any sport. His passion, dedication and knowledge of the game was unparrell to any. He is truly missed.
Patti, Dan and Kelly,
it's hard to believe it has been 5 years since Coach's passing, he will never be forgotten and is truly missed, the great game of hockey is just that today thanks to him. Know that Suzanne and I have said extra prayers and candles lit at mass for Coach and all of you in the Brooks family.
I was 20-years-old, the youngest staffer on the traveling Reagan for President Campaign, and we were in a high school gym somewhere in New Hampshire, Gov. Reagan had just started a speech to maybe 5,000, when a Secret Service Agent went pssst, hey kid. come here. I did, and he told me to go out to the war wagon to hear something. I got there, and the agents guarding the limo and war wagon were listening to the final minutes of the Miracle on the radio. At the end, I was so pumped I ran back in to my boss, David Fischer, and told him, excitedly saying I wish we could tell the Gov. He told me to figure out a way to, and just do it.
So on the back of my biz card I wrote: OLYMPIC HOCKEY FINAL JUST IN. SOVIET UNION 3, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 4!!
I walked right down the aisle in the middle of the crowd, right up to the dais, and went to one knee, waiting for an applause interruption. Mrs. Reagan looked at me like I had lost my marbles. When I could, I stood up and handed my card to the man sitting between the podium and Mrs. R, and asked him to please give it to the Gov. I then beat it over to the sidelines.
When the Gov. read it as the applause died down, he got the biggest, goofiest grin on his face, and he said, "I wish I had this news earlier when I was talking about these people." He then read it exactly as written, and finished it of in a deep, emotional roar of United States of America- FOUR!!!!
The crowd went completely bananas, crying, screaming, hugging, complete pandemonium. Biggest spontaneous cheer of the entire campaign. Sure made the Gov. happy... Thanks, Herb. And all of you players.
It was four years ago today the Herb Brooks left us, leaving behind a hockey legacy that will never be forgotten. Herb was my mentor and inspiration to be a hockey coach. And I will continue to honor him by being the best coach I can be teaching kids the game of hockey the way he wanted to be taught. Only six days earlier would have been your 70th birthday and I hope you will continue to guide and inspire me Herb…
I've heard it called one of the greatest miracles of the twentieth century... as far as I'm concerned, it was the greatest. I won't deny I'm not old enough to remember that game - I was two at the time - but I do remember the happiness it brought to my family, huge hockey fans.
I was born two years to the day before they beat the Soviets. I still look at the game as my second birthday present. A day late, yes, but more than worth the extra day.
Mister Brooks, that day you brought the dream back to the United States. You brought us something that we so rarely now have the chance to do - to go beyond our imaginations, to share the dream with the nation around us and its people.
My only wish is that I had been given the opportunity to meet you before your passage, sir. I will never forget the ending dedication in 'Miracle' - it was to you, and they were right... It didn't mean a thing that you didn't see the movie - to you, it wasn't a movie. It was life.
Rest in peace, Coach Brooks, and God bless dreamers like you.
herb you were the best coach known out in the world people admired you so much thanks allot herb
Thank you Coach Brooks for what you did. I don't Coach Hockey, but I teach Leadership to College students, and I share this precious story with each new class.
I still remember to this day the first time I ever went to a hockey camp it was not just any hockey camp it was Herb's Hockey camp only happened once or twice ever i was one of the proud kids to be taught by this man thank you Herb
Herb,
Even though I was not born yet. I saw your movie called Miracle in my history Vs. hollywood class. I was amazed at the stunts and guts that you did for you and your USA team. They did a wonderful job.
God Bless You and Your Team,
Kassondra
My name is Tom I am a ice hockey player in Atlantic City. AllI want to do is play hockey I am always trying to learn more about the 1980 team. I grew up learning this story. And the movie incoureged me to keep trying hard and maybe one day it will pay off. Tom McCabe age 14
The first time I watched the movie Miracle I wanted to become a hockey player. I waited a year. IN the mean time I wrote a 122 Page
Biography book on Herb Brooks. The book gave me a the oppertunity
to meet Herb's wife Patti and his daughtrt Kelly. Now today I'm a hockey player and couldn't have been more proud of myself and more on top of the earth then I am right now.
I am 12 years old to.
We miss you Herbie
Thank You
Michael Finch
Hockey has been a big part of my life. I never got a chance to meet Herb. What he and the boys of 1980 accomplished still gives me chills today. Thank you Herb for all you've given to the sport. Here's to you Herb, the leader of the one and only Dream Team.
THE MAN WAS GREATER.REST IN PEACE MR.BROOKS.
I don't remember a whole lot about my youth, but I sure do remember the 80 Olympic hockey team...me jumping up and down on the couch in our den as the boys pulled off what Al Michaels rightly described as a miracle-courtesy of the genius that was Herb Brooks. Thanks to the boys on that incredible team and thanks to Herb for giving me that amazing moment in time.
THE MOVIE WAS GREAT.THE MAN WAS GREATER.REST IN PEACE MR.BROOKS.
I just watched "Miracle On Ice" for the umpteenth time and each time I watch it, I still get a lump in my throat. The game was awesome when I witnessed it actually happening for the first time in 1980, and re-living it with the movie version makes it that much sweeter. I was born in Minnesota and spent my early years there before moving to Colorado, and it sure is nice to know that they still make heroes. I'm prouder still to have hailed from the great state of Minnesota, which also produced the extraordinary Mr. Herb Brooks! Even though he is gone from us now, I'd still like to say thank you Mr. Brooks, for giving us all a dream, and with this movie version, we can hold on to this dream forever!
Just watched "Miracle" I remember in 1980 I was a freshmen in high school and how much that game inpired me to make the high school hockey team, which I did. Then 16 years later,,I myself, became a high school hockey coach in Colorado and the 1st meeting I had with the kids was to watch the USA and Russia hockey game. Even today, when I watch the game it still gives me goose bumbs , (every time) Thanks Herb
I have always been inspired by the way Herb continued thinking his way, dispite all of the doubts of those who callled him a maniac. His place is secure as the father of the greatest sports moment in history.
Like so many others, I didn't (and still don't) know "a blue line from a clothesline" when I watched the Miracle on Ice game in 1980 in my mid-30's. When the movie came out, it was a thrill to be able to experience it all over again. I want to thank the Brooks family for sharing him and their own lives with us. I fulfilled my own dream this summer when, at age 60, I completed the Tevis Cup ride (a 100-miles in one day endurance ride over the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California). I wasn't sure whether I would have the strength to do it as the completion rate is usually less than 50%, but in the months prior to the ride I watched "Miracle" over and over again and I, also, began to believe. And on July 23 my moment also came. Thank you, Herb, for teaching not only your hockey players, but also the rest of us, to follow our dreams.
i would like to send my condolences to the Brooks family. I was only 5 yrs. old when they upset the Russians. so the movie i watched about it really inspired me and gave me new ways to lead the kids i coach. i'm learning all i can about this incredible man. sincerely , Victor Morrow
Thank you for believing in dreams, Mr. Brooks, and your selfless example in how you pursued them.
We just bought Miracle and it was a great movie. Especially the interviews with Herb. I was lucky enough to have watched the 1980 Olympics on T.V. I cried like a baby when we won. I still get choked up when I hear Al Michaels say "Do you believe in miracles??? YES!" We'll always remember you Herb. You'll never be forgotten.
Went to Johnson High with Herb,and although I did not play the game, I remember the guy's walking and carring their gear to Lake Phalen for practice as few had car's in those day's. That is the dedication it took to win.
Herb - you galvanized a country and changed USA sports forever - USA, USA, USA - We will never forget! Thanks for the memories
Herb, what u have done 4 me and other hockey players is remarkabnle.
you changed everything but 4 the better. i will never forget what you have dont and your memory lives on in hockey and in my heart.
HERB BROOKS RULES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HERB BROOKS RULES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1111
Herb, what you have done for hockey is remarkable. I know why you pushed that 1980 olympic hockey team like you did. You knew the two most important things that a team needs to produce ingenuity, cohesion and camaraderie. Herb hands down, you are the best coach to ever live. I love ya, see ya heaven.
Pfc Jolly, USMC
I can not begin to say how much you changed my attitude as a hockey player. You gave me the will to keep going when the odds were against me and I just want to say Thank You. You will be miss by ALL.
You are an inspiration to hockey players throughout the world. Hockey wouldn't be what it is today without you.
What a visionary to think you could actually beat the greatest Russian team in history. And with delicate player teamwork and a motivator unheard of in this century, you did it. I've heard talks by Lou Holtz, Fran Tarkenton and other great ones but you are by far the best. Thank you. Ron, Dayton Ohio
Completely moved by the Miracle story- What an incredible man, Herb- his fulfilled dream is an inspiration to us all! You are missed.
I just want to say that you did a great deal for the US in 1980 to help the US Hockey Team win the games. I have never heard of you until the movie Miracle. It's great to finally see that Hollywood can finally shine the light on a positive figure for a change. You always be missed.
Just to let you know you lifted the American people in 1980. It was just not a hockey game but it made Americans feel good about themselves again!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed watching the movie made about the great USA victory over the Soviets. It brought back great memories as well as pride in this great country. It's truly was a tremendous loss when Mr. Brooks died. He was definately one of a kind, but his legacy will live on!
Coach:
All I can say is thank you for what you and your team did for this country twenty five years ago today. I remember as if it were yesterday.
Rest in Peace, Coach.
Thanks for all you did for the game, and for all you did to help the young kids, you have made everyone you touched a better person.
I was just in Lake Placid last weekend for the kickoff of the 25th Anniversary celebration. Jimmy Craig was there to relight the Olympic flame. At least 300 people where out in single digit temperatures to see the undying spirit of the Olympics return to Lake Placid. I want to thank the Lake Placid community and Herb Brooks especially for making it so special for me.
My family and I saw The Movie "Miracle" in the Palace Theater in Lake Pacid last February. (We live just a short drive south of Lake Placid.) Unbelievable! Fantastic! I felt as if I were back all those years ago watching the game against the Soviets, got all choked-up, felt like a fool until I looked around the movie theater and saw the faces of the others around me. You could tell that the movie brought back such wonderful memories in a time we needed a boost as a country, this team gave it to us, as well as the other US olympians. It's just too bad that we have to have Pros playing in the Olympics, when there should ONLY be Amateurs showcasing their talents. Herb Brooks was a phenominal coach! What he did is unmatched to this day. With the 25th Anniversary of the games upon us, Herb will be missed, but thought of often during these celebrations.
It was a pleasure to watch you turn a bunch of inexperienced hockey players into gold-medal winners. Thank you
What a pleasure and joy it was to watch Coach Brooks and his team during those Olympics. It was not only a great game but it brought hope to a weary nation. America can rise again. Thank you to that "Miracle" team and Coach Brooks.
From what I Know Herb is a great motavator and very smart. I Wacht Mirical on DVD #2 and they talcked about him alot and i learnd a lot and saw some of his playrs they talked about him alot.
Her Brooks was the greatest coach knnown to man. Hard, but good! I give my hats off to him for sticking with his team in the olympics in 1980. That was a good one. Every single time i watch the movie, Miracle, i always get excited at the ned, no matter how many times I watch it! If I met you Herb, it would be so soon...RIP
We all live our lives wondering just what our purpose in life is and very few of us ever get a chance to make a lasting difference. Herb Brooks, maybe without knowing what his purpose was, defined a nation's emotions by simply doing what he did best, coaching a hockey team. I doubt he had any preconcieved notions about the implications his life's work would have. He simply did his job and it changed forever the emotional makeup of this nation. By the simply act of coaching a hockey team he managed to polarize the pride of every single person who is proud of this great country. We should all be so fortunate to have our lives impact so many in such a positive way. May God keep you on his first line.
I never met ya Herb, but man I miss ya. Rest in Peace my friend..
I watched Miracle and I couldn't believe that we had won. Being born in 1991 I never witnessed the actual event but then I saw movie credits and features and there You were. Wow , you did an amazing thing and you'll always be remembered, I could watch that movie all day. Thx Herb Brooks. I am interesested in Hockey now, as in playing Hockey.
Thanks Herb for being a wonderful person to me and wehn i get older i want to coach the USA Olympic hockey team at the olympics and beat Canada
Herb thank you buddy for helping this country believe again. If it were not for you caoching the 1980 USA team the Miracle would have not have happened. I was looking forward into meeting you one day, but you have gone to a beter place. Hockey will never be the same. When i become Equipment Manager for a NHL team and we win the cup, I will bring it to you. I will dedicate the cup in your memory. you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers forever. God be with you Herb. LONG LIVE HERB BROOKS (1937-2003).
Herb: you were an inspiration to us all--from when we were juniors at Win Stephens, to our time at the "U"--I'm honored to have played for you and I'm certain I speak for many of your players and friends.
"Herbie" was a great guy, a good friend, and a fun cohort when I worked with him at W.A. Lang many, many years ago! I was very sad to hear of his untimely death.
He was the man, Long before it was politically correct he allowed me to skate on a team. He also covered my back on the ice!! Soul Brother Number 1# In my book.. Peace and Blessings In the words of a famous rapper ("only God can judge Me!!) you the man Herb!!!
Herb was not just a coach he was a husban, he was a dad. herb was a great man, and never to be forgotten
what herb did and what the usa hockey players did is truly remarkable..it inspires every athelete in the world..."NO ONE CAN BEAT A TEAM PLAYING AS ONE..."
I was 13 when Herb and the rest of the USA Team played their hearts out to win what was a true "Miracle". That was one of the most exiting moments of my life to witness the heroics of the biggest underdogs in the world beat the Soviets. I now understand what Herb was all about after watching "Miracle". Herb is my new Hero. If you beleive and work like there's no tomorrow then you can achieve anything.
I just watched the film Miracle with my family and it brought back the memory of watching the games of the 1980 Olympics and the pride they gave us in America.
I didn't know much about Herb or the 1980 olympics (seeing as I wasn't born yet)but after seeing Miracle I learned about the 1980 olympics and I think that with what's going on over in Iraq right now that the movie can give the people of America a feeling of hope. To this day the Russians still have a good hockey team. May you rest in peace Herb and thank you for giving the nation a chance to believe my heart goes out to his wife Patti and his kids Danny and Kelly.
Herb has been a great mentor to me and I will never forget him. He has taught us to follow our dreams and listen to what our heart tells us. You are a true friend that I will always miss. Rest in peace.
Herb gave us reason to dream.
HERB BROOKS WAS A LIVING LESSON IN HOW TO HANDLE FAME. HE NEVER FORGOT HIS ROOTS. HE GREW UP ON THE EAST SIDE AND NEVER LEFT. I LIVE IN THE SAME NEIGHBORHOOD THAT HERB GREW UP IN AND IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE DOWN ARCADE AVE. WITHOUT THINKING ABOUT HERB.YOU ARE MY LIFELONG HERO. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING &GOD BLESS YOU
Just saw "Miracle". I was 10 yrs. old when USA won the gold. It was like stepping into a time machine. Herb Brooks will forever be missed.
The true testament of Herb Brooks was giving the credit of the accomplishment to the players. I have coached youth sports for many years and have found this to be a rare quality only found in the best coaches and people. His contribution to sports in America is that his name by itself inspires people to do their very best.
I am amazed in what can happen i this world. I think Herd Brooks and his Team were one of those things i cant believe in this world. They made a great accomplishment as team and worked together "as a family".
(still workin on other part of entry)
What a shining example to our country and as an American Coach Brooks was. He was the greatest coach of all time and forever. There will never be another like him. I can remember watching the '80 Olympics and screaming until I lost my voice. I wasn't even a hockey fan. Herb Brooks made us so proud to be Americans. I will miss him forever. Thank you, Herbie, for inspiring and achieving every dream possible for all of us. God Bless you and your family.
Herb its going to be a year on August 11 that you been gone. Its still hard to watch Miracle and not cry because I know if you would be alive you would be glad Kurt Russell played you. Herb as I look back to the accident I wish you could have been here. The Penguins had a real bad season and they said that one reason was because they lost a good friend and coach. We held a moment of silence to honor you and say goodbye since we couldnt go to Minnesota.
Herb REST IN PEACE TILL WE CAN MEET IN HEAVEN. My prayers are with you and your family. Goodbye Herb..
yesterday i have seen the movie miracle. i was so much impressed of this movie and of course of that great coach.
greetings from germany
I WITNESSED THOSE FABULOUS GAMES, AND WILL NEVER NEVER FORGET THE OVERWHELMING EMOTION AND PRIDE FOR THOSE YOUNG MEN, THEIR COACH, AND OUR COUNTRY.
I WILL ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL FOR THE COURAGE AND TENACITY DISPLAYED BY THAT TEAM, BECAUSE THEY ARE A CONTINUING INSPIRATION TO AMERICAN'S TODAY, AND TO OUR YOUNG PEOPLE WHO DESPERATELY NEED HEROS WHO REVEAL INTEGRITY AND STRENGTH IN THE FACE OF TRULY DAUNTING TASKS.
THESE PEOPLE MERIT OUR RESPECT AND OUR GRATITUDE, AND MR. HERB BROOKS MERITS OUR PRAISE AS A MAN WHO MATCHED HIS VISION WITH THE ABILITY, COMMITTMENT AND WILLINGNESS TO SEE IT THROUGH.
HE IS A MARVELOUS EXAMPLE OF THE INDIVIDUAL WHO UNDERSTANDS THE DEFINITION OF "PRESS ON!"
THANK YOU FOR PUTTING THIS WEB SITE TOGETHER. HE IS A PRECIOUS EXAMPLE FOR EACH ONE OF US.
I was not alive when the "Miracle on Ice" happened, but having a mother from Minnesota and a father from Wisconsin, I learned about it as I grew up, from trips back to Minnesota, and just having my parents talk about it. My parents always talked about Herb, the amazing coach from Minnesota, whenever the subject came up on the "Miracle on Ice". When I found out he died, it just hit me like a pile of bricks. I had just gotten home, and on TV is this stuff on how the "Minnesota Miracle Man" had died. I was very upset, because I had grown up learning about this event. When "Miracle" came out, though, I thought the ending to the movie was very touching, when they dedicated it to him. I never met Herb, but he has played a role in how I live my life every day. Thank you Herb, and rest in peace.
Herb Brook's was the type of Coach that I always respected. He knew how to coach and he researched the game inside and out. I watched the game during the 1980 Olympics and I was so proud of what he and his team accomplished in such a short time, truly a testiment to his coaching ability. That particular year I was coaching a High School team in Chicago and I used the USA team as a morale booster for my kids to show them what hard work on the ice could accomplish. I follow the Golden Gophers to this day and remember what he brought to that program up there. Thank you Herb for the greatest of all Hockey memories.
I was 28 years old when I watched this event and even today at age 52 I can't think of any experience that made me feel so patriotic and proud to be a part of America. It was one of the most exciting things in my lifetime. America was more simple and innocent in 1980 and I think all Americans felt a part of this great occasion. I fell in love with all that were a part of this great team. I have never forgotten how I felt ... that wonderful feeling. Thank you so much!
What Herb Brooks accomplished in the 1980 Olympics was a true miracle. Even more important, it gave our country's citizens a reason to be proud of their heritage. Thank you, Herb.
I wasn't alive in 1980 but i wish i was after watching Miracle. It was so amazing how one game could bring out the emotions of so many Americans.Your impact left a never ending mark on hockey. You will missed.
Quel magnifique personnage que j'ai eu la chance de connaître à travers le film "Miracle". Dommage qu'il soit déjà parti au-delà. Malgré son jeune âge, il a su laisser amplement sa marque.
It was a very sad to see this hockey icon leave us. What he did in 1980 helped establish hockey in the U.S. for years
I was 11 years old when i watched arguably the best team play the best game i ever watched,i still remember that night like it was yesterday it was one of the best moments of my life,it was 11:00 pm the whole block was waving flags and singing the national anthem,I never felt more patriotic or american I never knew you personnally but you've been a part of my family since that night and you always will be too.we miss you coach!
herb my family my and i wanted to let you know that you were a great guy
I am but 18 years old, While not old enough to have watched the 1980 Olympic Games, The movie 'Miracle' has offered great respect and gratatude towards Herb and the rest of the team. While i have not played hockey i have love for the game. Watching this movie has given me the courage and determination to do anything in life. While i do not know any of his family or the players of the Olympic Gold winning team, i would like to send my admiration to the them all. Thank you for making my goals easier to reach.
I've never been a Hockey fan in my life, but I have never lost my interest on it. My love in sports it's to Baseball, but this doesn't mean that I don't know about other sports, because that's why I live for. Some of you who are reading this, maybe are asking yourself's why I'm writting here because I know nothing about Hockey. And I understand your feelings. I'm writting because I've been a sports fan since the day I was born. And after doing some researches about the all the greatest moments sports had ever had, and I saw the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. When I saw team USA winning the USSR in their own game with a team full of college kids against the best the USSR has ever had. Then I asked myself; WOW!! this is amazing!! As we all know teams are made not only because of the players, but it is more about their managers. When I first looked at the name Herb Brooks, I asked myself who is this person?, what had he achieved to have all this credit?. As we sports fan know in Puerto Rico, Basketball and Baseball are the only sports that we are one of the best in the world, so which means its rare to us to hear the name Herb Brooks. Then afterward I saw the movie Miracle, it was amazing how the director used the same footage and recreated in a different angle. And most of all Herb Brooks attitude and love to his game and family. That was unbelievable, this has been the first movie I had ever seen that recreates a series of real life incidents of something that happened in the real world. Well I just would like to say to Herb's family and friends that here in Puerto Rico his name have been heard and most of all praised as one of the greates coaches in sports history. And by myself and my family thanks for the memories and the strategies you gave for sports in about that everything is about the name in front of the jersey, not on the back of it. Because when you play the Olympics its all about playing for your country not for your name. And thats the way it should be. Thanks for everything Herbie and hope to see you soon on heaven and in our souls.
I am 15 years old i was not alive when the 1980 miracle happend but i just rented to movie miracle and i wanted to say that i wish i was alive to see the games, to see herb brooks coach. Herb and the movie miracle make me want to try harder and do better in everything i do. i want to thank herb brooks and his family
Herb Brooks was a great man. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy never die!
Herb Brooks to me was a great example of leadership, committment, loyalty, and devotion. He was the greatest coach to ever coach the game of Hockey. He will be missed and I am sad to see him gone. But thanks Mr. Brooks.
I have seen Miracle.All three family members seen it.I new it was hard to hand pick players.
Just finished the movie "Miracle". We were so sorry to hear Herb was no longer alive. He was quite a guy! We need more men like him.
I first met Herb Brooks while I was working at a gas station while going to school. Then again at a hockey camp he held. His camp was tough, and hard, and everyone was a better player after it. It is almost a year since his passing and seeing miracle again, makes me realize what a treasure we lost that day in I35. I live in Tampa now and I know he would have enjoyed this years Stanley Cup. Both teams the Lightning and the Flames were made of players we would have picked for his teams.
Thank You, Herb, for everything.
I was very young when the U.S beat the Russians in 1980. After watching Miracle,I feel as if I celebrated our victory for the first time. This movie allows everyone to get a small glimps into the life of a great man. His spirit inspires us all. God Bless..
I can remember that game, I can remember the look on his face as they beat the Soviets. It was from that moment, I idolized Herb Brooks. He has inspired me to be the coach I am today. With all the kudos I get from the parents and coaches, I always thank Herb. For its his coaching methods which I strive to continue. He truly was a MIRACLE!
What an inspiring individual! Rest in piece.
I remeber watching the game with my family I was 12 years old. The feeling of pride after the us won i will never forget, RIP Herb Brooks thanks for the memorys.
Herb, Rest in Peace, friend.
I've never been a Hockey fan in my life, but I have never lost my interest on it. My love in sports it's to Baseball, but this doesn't mean that I don't know about other sports, because that's why I live for. Some of you who are reading this, maybe are asking yourself's why I'm writting here because I know nothing about Hockey. And I understand your feelings. I'm writting because I've been a sports fan since the day I was born. And after doing some researches about the all the greatest moments sports had ever had, and I saw the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. When I saw team USA winning the USSR in their own game with a team full of college kids against the best the USSR has ever had. Then I asked myself; WOW!! this is amazing!! As we all know teams are made not only because of the players, but it is more about their managers. When I first looked at the name Herb Brooks, I asked myself who is this person?, what had he achieved to have all this credit?. As we sports fan know in Puerto Rico, Basketball and Baseball are the only sports that we are one of the best in the world, so which means its rare to us to hear the name Herb Brooks. Then afterward I saw the movie Miracle, it was amazing how the director used the same footage and recreated in a different angle. And most of all Herb Brooks attitude and love to his game and family. That was unbelievable, this has been the first movie I had ever seen that recreates a series of real life incidents of something that happened in the real world. Well I just would like to say to Herb's family and friends that here in Puerto Rico his name have been heard and most of all praised as one of the greates coaches in sports history. And by myself and my family thanks for the memories and the strategies you gave for sports in about that everything is about the name in front of the jersey, not on the back of it. Because when you play the Olympics its all about playing for your country not for your name. And thats the way it should be. Thanks for everything Herbie and hope to see you soon on heaven and in our souls.
It's almost been a year since Herb's passing, but he'll be with me for the rest of my life. When life gets tough, and I sometimes don't want to do my best, I think of Herb's character, and what it said ! Even though I never met you, God Bless you Herb, I'll see you in heaven, Rick
I was stationed at Holloman AFB NM at the time. The pulse of the nation was weak with no hope in site. Several of us from the base watched the game against the soviets. I can still see us all jumping around the room for joy after the victory. The nations pulse once again beat proudly....As One!
Thank you Herb, coaches and The US hockey players for restoring our faith in a nation for which we proudly served.
I didn't know who Herb Brooks was until I saw the movie MIRACLE ,however, I do remember as a child seeing repeat footage of the '80 game. Where I'm from hockey isn't that popular. But, you don't have to be a hockey player know a great coach. He's an inspiration. My condolences to the Brook's family.
Herb Brooks was the best coach ever!
Watching the Miracle on Ice DVD over and over and still can't get enough. Makes me proud to be an American. Thank you, Herb, for being the catalyst. Rest in Peace. God Bless your family. You will be missed.
i just wish i was around when it really happened. i heard a bit about it but after watching it in theatres i truly understood what it was about. i recently bought the DVD and i cant get enough of it. everytime i watch it i just want 2 jump on the ice and play hockey. miracle is a great motivational tool. i watched it before my hockey playoffs and it really helped me raise my game. Herb Brooks was a great man and may he R.I.P
Herb was a great man. I'm so inspired by what he did to that hockey team in 1980. He was a great man, and a great loss.
It wasn't as much a miracle as it was a person in the capacity of the coach who understood the sacrifices necessary to achieve greatness. I too was completely impressed with Mr. Brooks. As well as his wife and family. I am sorry for the loss of this great man.
Herb Brooks was my inspiration in becoming a hockey coach. I started coaching hockey when my son was 6 years old and from that point on I haven’t stopped. I am now a USA Hockey Master Coach and now coach high school hockey for the Hudson Valley Hockey Association. So Herb thanks for guiding me all these years and I hope you are watching because your legacy will continue for many years to come.
Until last night, I was unaware of Herb Brooks. Now after watching the movie "Miracle" I know more about what being driven and inspired is all about. What an masterpiece! We need more people in this country to inspire us and bring out the "good" in us all!
Coach Brooks, thank you for dreaming and allowing others to be inspired to keep dreaming. I was 13 at the time and will never forget the victory over the "evil empire" (at least that is what a lot of us thought of the USSR at the time). For a moment in time, we were the best in the world, without professional players! What a special moment that was shared and cheered by a nation! Thank you for reviving in our nation the ability to believe. Those 20 young men were giants and seized their moment in time. I do believe the name on the front is more important than the name on the back. Rest in peace and Godspeed. Deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Herb Brooks.
Thanks for inspiring me ..Thank-you for giving so many people chances in life. By watching your Movie " Miracle"I now know what I wanna do with my life .
Thanks ,
Love
A Hockey Fan ,
Melissa
To your family & friends God bless you .
If everyone could live their lives with such spirit and determination for their dreams...what an amazing person. Thank you for inspiring.
Herb
You are one of the reasons why I love the game of hockey so much. I wish we could have sat down n talked about the game. You're will to win n motivation is the greatest reason hockey is a great sport that proves True Miracles do happen. God Bless you. Now Badger Bob has company in talking stadgey.
Always
George M. Wagner
hockey fan since 1977
I saw the movie Miracle tonight and was very moved, to the point that instead of going to sleep at 1 A.M. I searched out this website.
I was 7 years old in 1980, and have only fleeting memories of the Miracle on Ice. Now I truly understand what happened that day, what it meant, and why it happened.
The "why" is Herb Brooks. A few people on this earth inspire true greatness in others, and Herb must have been one of those people. He brought so much happiness to this country at a time when we needed it most, and for that we all owe him our deepest gratitude.
Thanks Herb, and just like you, may we all leave everything we have on the ice before passing on.
WE LOST A GREAT PERSON AND HE WILL BE MISSED.
I was 16 when the game was played. Having nothing to do, I turned on the TV and the first thing I saw was Herb Brooks' face on the screen. I sat there and watched the rest of the game. Good thing I did not change the channel. This will always be one of the "Greatest" moments in sports history.
Three months ago in February I made it a point to see "Miracle" to relive the experience again. After the movie was over I just knew when the movie will be released on DVD, I was going to buy it.
Herb, was a guy everyone loved to hate, you couldnt be like him you couldnt achieve in a lifetime what he would do in a week, he accomplished and touched more lives that he would ever be able to recongnize. I have not skated for Herb but i have skated the "Drill" "again" and "again", our team called the drill Herbies, in commenberation of Herb Brooks. Your words and heart still stay!
will be missed more than he may ever know may he rest in peace for ever
Herb, I doubt it was your goal to touch the lives of millions which is exactly what makes your loss so difficuly. May you rest in peace knowing you inspired generations of hockey players to come.
DAG
Herb you were a great coach and a wonderful person.You deserved the gold medal all the way. You pushed those boys for a reason.Good job and hope you rest in peace.
mr. brooks will always be a honered man.from everything hes ever done 2 help the game of hockey and thta is why i play this wonderful sport today
Herb: Thank you! For being a friend, a well respected brother, for our laughs, fights and many more memories we had shared when we where kids. Skating at phalen rink, swimming at Lake Phalen, walking the lake, golfing and being chased by the park police for playing foot ball in the park. We sure had some great times growing up. Our parents how your respected them and loved them and always having the right answer (even if I didn't agree.)You are a very special person and I will never ever forget you. How mad you used to get me and Chico (our dog)watching the time until I got home. Driving me to Johnson High School but most of all keeping in line. Remember when I kicked you in the knee and put three scars in the knee cap with my figure skates. You left Mother and the family name with the highest humbleness anyone could ever want. Thank you so much for representing the Brooks name with such high ideals and quality. There isn't a day that I don't have tears in my eyes. Visiting the cemetry as you lay along side of our father,it is so very hard to deal with. Rest in peace Herb, I miss you so and you'll never know how much love I had for you. I will never forget you and will be visiting you and dad often. Someday I know we will meet again. Mom and I miss you so. I still have a very hard time dealing with this. You where always so strong and I never thought anything would ever take you from us. I know you are at peace and resting in his love.Take care and may the Lord hold you special in his hands always.I just have to keep my faith and know that the Good Lord had other plans for you and for the family. It just isn't the same though.
Your only sister,
Gayle
Gayle
"Miracle" put tears in my eyes. I'm doing a ceremonial speech for one of my classes on Herb. Thank you for all the inspiration that youve given me and everyone.
herb brooks was a good coach to the pens and good friend. he will be sadly missed by the entire penguins organization and family. herb i miss you alot may you rest in peace.
Herb,
This year for school we have to do a report on a famous American and I just wanted you to know that I picked you because of the great things you've done including when you restored hope in Americans everywhere in 1980. Thank You!
Herb Brooks~
Thanks! You are the one who inspires me in the game of hockey! You don't let people down you encourage them! Especially me! Thanks again to you and your family! I will miss you and I will never forget you!
~Samantha Nelson
My husband and I just experienced the "Miracle" once again. What Herb Brooks, his coaches and players did for themselves and fans everywhere in February 1980, was unimagineable, unbelievable and unsurpassed. Our condolences to Patti and his children (grandchildren) and also our thanks for sharing him so freely; it could not have been easy at times.
herb i saw the HBO special and than i saw your movie miricale i wanted to let you know it changed the way i am going to play hockey for the rest of my life im still young but im leading my team all the way as a goalie. ur my hero i am going to miss you
I just returned from watching MIRACLE. I was a young 19 year old man on an aircraft carrier out in San Diego, CA. I remember an announcement coming over the ship's speaker system saying that the US had beaten Russia. I never played hockey growing up in Southeast North Dakota, however if I had, man would I have loved to play for Coach Brooks. He truly understood the game and the little ways in which to motivate his guys. Thank you very much to the Men of the 1980 United States Gold Medal Olympic Hockey Team for the inspiration that you are now giving the youth of today in the way to play the game.
Thanks Herb for everything u have helped me with in hockey. I'm gonna miss seein ya at hockey camp.
I was a goalie playing in the state hockey championship.......we were playing on the night that Team USA beat the soviets.......mt teammates started calling me Jim Craig......doesnt get any better than that..........
Dear Herb, I saw the movie "Miracle" and could hardly control myself about the intensity of the game. This was my first year to play hockey and already I realize I world make a better coach than a player and you provided me with the inspiritation to do my best and follow my dreams because "Miracles Happen Every Day" Thanks.
Hey Brooks,
Your a miracle Man! I wish that I could have been in 1980 and seen the Olympics because seeing the movie just isn't as good I'm sure.
I just seen the movie Miracle tonight! I still remember watching the game that February day in 1980 when Herb and his band of 20 took on the Russian's - great day for the USA! A Minnesotan who will be truly missed in the hockey world! Great inspirational movie!
Dear Herb Brooks,
I'm doing a report on you in my Minnesota Bear Book.I'm learning alot about you that I never new. you are the best hockey coach in the world.
P.S.Way to go for the GOLD!
Your Fan,
Aaron Brown
Herb,
Thanks for showing to all that
you dont have to be the "best"
player on the ice just the player with the "biggest" heart!
p.s.way to kick some russian butt!
Herb Brooks was a great coach and I really enjoyed watching Miracle.
Just came home from the Miracle. Excellent movie. Remember this very well. Our sincere sympathy to the Brooks family.
I remember the "Miracle on ice" when I was just a kid. I didnt know what all the excitement was, but I knew it had to be good. After seeing the movie "Miracle" (for the third time now), I have a full understanding of what happened that day. I was saddened to learn, well after the fact, of Herb Brooks' death. He truly WAS an innovator for American hockey, and has left an impression that will not soon be forgotten. He will be missed.
I just saw the movie Miracle and was incredibly moved by the story of Herb Brooks and the 1980 hockey team. I only remember watching the game as a 13 year old on television, never realizing all that went into that triumphant moment. Thank you Herb Brooks for helping to make such a miracle happen.
It has been a pleasure to say that I have known Herb Brooks since he was just a young man playing hockey on a small pond on the East side of St. Paul, Mn. There is a very large picture hanging in a small resturant on the East side of St. Paul,of the winning team that he was so very proud of. Serlin's Cafe, where Herb Brooks frequented, and as a reminder that he would always remember where his roots were. A very humble individual.
In February 1980, I was stationed with the Navy in Rota, Spain, so none of us saw the broadcast. Most of the European bases were on alert because of the terrorism ( Bader Meinhof, and the Americans taken hostage about 100 days earlier.) It was a tough time to be an American. I raise a glass in a toast to you, Herb and your 20 great guys, who gave us something much bigger than a hockey or a sports victory. President Carters speech ending 1979 had said, "stop crying and start sweating, stop talking and start walking.Working together with our common faith, we cannot fail." Who expected you and your team to serve as examples of Carter's sentiment? Your victory was an Upset. What you did for us as people was indeed a Miracle! Thank you and God Bless you Herb!
For him not to see this remake movie of the dream he lived was unreal. The movie "Miracle" that is based on Herb Brooks road to a championship was unreal. You'll laugh you'll cry and you'll feel like you were there walking in his shoes. God Bless Herb Brooks.
Thank you for just being you,(coach herb).You had a special way of teaching players what it takes to become #1.Play hard, Work hard,and Play as a team.I coach too, I learn alot from you,thank again.....
I was not alive during the 1980 Olympic games but from what I have been discovering it seems like Herb Brooks was a very inspirational coach. He didnt act like a friend to the players he coached but he did end up being their friends after the accomplishment the team made.
Herb Brooks was a truly inspiration coach and a master motivator. The 1980 Olympic victory over the Soviets will always be one of the greatest events in the history of sports.
Miracle, also, will one day be regarded as one of the greatest sports films of all times.
What a great inspiration he is to so many. He has left a lot here on earth. Everyone in the theatre stood up and clapped and cheered after the moveie. It was a great time for history and a story that needs to be told and inspire again and again. You were great Herb!!!
I highly recommend 'Miracle' as one, if not the best, sports movie I've ever seen. It ranks up there with Billy Crystal's '61*'. Every time I think of, or hear Al Michaels play by play of the '80 Olympics, it gives me chills. No sporting event in the 20th century came close to matching the triumph of our Olympic hockey team - it's effect upon the United States, the sport of hockey, and the complete satisfaction it has to this day - it just makes every American feel good that when we put our minds and hearts to it, we can accomplish some amazing things.
I watched the movie "Miracle" last night and when I was 16 I saw the 1980 USA Olympic Hockey team play in that very game in the Olympics at Lake Placid. I can only remember going crazy when the announcer counted down to the win and the USA team beat the Russians and later won the gold. Not until the movie "Miracle" did I understand who was the man most responsible for that great win. Herb Brooks is a inspiration to everyone. This was the first movie I had ever watched in a cinema where at the end of the movie after the Kurt Russell narration everyone would stand up and applaud. Kurt Russell did a outstanding acting job in this movie as well.
My Wife And I Enjoyed MIRACLE,It Was A Great Movie,Brought Back Lots
Of Memories Of 1980.I Was Sorry To Hear About Herb Brooks.
Myself, and my lady, watched the "Miracle" earlier this evening.
It was a great movie! I wish Herb Brooks was around to see it!
I've never really held a hockey stick my whole life, but after watching MIRACLE, and the extraordinary passion of Mr. Herb I feel that I have missed out on a lot.
A man of such wisdom and positive attitude truely deserves the appreciation of the world.
The State of Hockey has lost its beloved coach. Herb Brooks will always be a miracle man.
I was blown away when I saw the Movie MIRACLE it was such an insiration. Mr. Brooks was truly an inovator and great contributer to the game of hockey. His determination and self comfidence aloud him to convince people and make them belive in him but also in his team and thats what the miracle on ice did it made everyone belive
I think what Mr. Brooks did with that group in 1980 was awesome. He taught them more then the game of Hockey. Mr. Brooks Taught that about team work and how individual hockey is not the way to win games.
Mr. Brooks will be missed by the Hockey World. The Movie by disney will help show a younger generation how the Hockey Boom was started in the USA
I must also say that the movie was great. The 1980's Tv Version was not even close to the Disney version. I was shocked to see how good Kurt Russel was as Mr. Brooks. Its a shame Mr. Brooks was not here to see the movie.
Good Job!
I saw the movie "Miracle" yesterday and throughly enjoyed it. What a great tribute to Herbie and his family.
Saw Miracle on the 2th anniversary of the game in madison square garden.
I highly enjoyed this film and the highlights as well as for how much you provided for this team and your gratification.
I used to play and think of the what if's.
You lived beyond them took the what if to what you did, thank you.
I went to see Miracle last night with my four sons. Three were playing minor hockey at the time of the 1980 Olympics. I was covering the games at Lake Placid. While we were doing mostly features, not covering games. I did manage to see all of the hockey games except the gold medal game. I recall the excitement of the Russian game. And the festive crowd after the biggest upset in sports history. Herb certainly was the motivating force. We all clapped and cheered every goal in that game and we weren't the only one in the theater doing that. Herb, thanks for the memories.
The movie Miracle has just brought back the memories from that great day in Feb, 1980. Without a doubt, Herb Brooks was the greatest motivator/coach and will be missed by all who love this wonderful sport.
Miracle on Ice brought back many memories of a special time in our lives and certainly a special time for all Americans. Thanks Herb for giving everyone that memory.
Not often is it possible to see the same thing twice in one's lifetime. My Husband and I just saw the movie "Miracle" and we felt as though we had lived that February day, 1980, again. Thanks, Herb, what a story, what a team, and what a legacy.
to the family of mr. herb brooks,we send our heartfelt condolances.after being there for the premiere of miracle ,in lake placid,it made me sad to think we lost one of the most engenious
motivators of our time.his lost presence in usa hockey will be felt for decades to come ,but we have always
the history of what he did in lake placid one february night to keep his memory. god bless
Thanks Herb, you proved to the world that ANYTHING is possible.
Herbie was the man of USA Hockey and I am greatly honored to also call him a Minnesotan.
I wish I would have went to that golf tournament before I moved because it was in my hometown at Giant's Ridge, but that is only a minor regret to the loss of Mr. Minnesota.
May you rest in peace and guide Team USA from above.
He was a great man, perhaps the greatest at hockey
God takes the good ones for his team, Thanks to Herbie and thanks to his family for sharing him with us.
Herb you were the best, thank you for all you have done for hockey.
To the rest please help out with this petition:
http://www.petitiononline.com/hbmt2003/petition.html
Great job coach..you seem to have been a real humble man despite your fame..GOD BLESS THE FAMILY
Thank you Herb Brooks for opening my eyes to Hockey during the Olympics. Several years later, I married a man who had a passion for hockey which has been passed down to our son. The excitement that was generated in my house when you joined the Penguin hockey association was immense. God Bless you, Herb Brooks.
I was 10 when I followed the US Hockey team through the Olympics. And went crazy whenever the TV didn't show a game. It is because of Herb Brooks and that 1980 team that a farm kid from Mayville ND would plead to be driven into town to play hockey every chance he got. We would play outdoors in the cold, we flooded backyards for years. All this because of Herb and his team. I ended up playing basketball even won a state high school championship (because no organized hockey existed in the area) but hockey never left my mind. And years later when I had children, I vowed that they would have a choice of playing hockey if they wanted to. Today 3 more kids play hockey and my old hometown even put up an indoor ice rink - all in part to Herb Brooks.
May God Bless the memory of Herb Brooks!
Thank you, Herb, for such a thrill when you coached the award winning team. Also, thank you for always being a gentleman and showing your players the finer side of competition. May your soul rest in peace. Richard and Marjorie Castiglia
To the family of Herb Brooks and to all his friends and colleagues our deepest sympathy. The hockey world has lost some of its luster with his death.
To the family and friends of Herb Brooks, I am keeping you all in my thoughts to get through this tragic event. Although famous for his life dedicated to hockey, I find him an amazing role model for his character as a human being. I have the utmost respect for someone so giving, caring, and honest. We should all aspire to have such character, and have the strength and leadership to make a difference in this world.
Dave - We share your shock, grief and loss in only a way that our two families can truly understand. Please know that you are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers!
To the Brooks Family:
I wanted to send my heartfelt condolences.
I was shocked and stunned to the hear the news.
Herb was a treasure. His wit, charm humor and dedication to hockey was boundless.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
To the Brooks family,
On behalf of every hockey fan in the US, I would like to thank Mr Brooks for all he has given to USA Hockey and to the fans of this wonderful sport. Although he is remebered most for the Miracle on Ice, he was so much more to so many people. May God help you through this very sad time.
a former minnesotan my self(plymouth,mn) herb taught me at summer camps from 78-80. i still play and enjoy the game that was taught to me by a great man and a great coach. yes coach, i will always be proud to say that he was my coach.
We'll never forget the wonderful inspiration you and your team gave our country in 1980.
As a young journalist working to, first, start a US-based hockey weekly and, later, covering the sport for a variety of minor news outlets, Herb was always so helpful, enthusiastic and accommodating, despite my not having "important" credentials. He was a hero to all who love US hockey, and a great guy to those, like myself, lucky enough to have encountered him professionally. And he was the best damn coach the New York Rangers ever had. Thanks, Herb, for everything.
Brooks Family:
The city of Pittsburgh, the States of PA and Minnesota, and the Country of USA will truly miss a great and wonderful person. I followed Herb since 1980 with the USA Hockey team. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
Shirley Lazor & Family - Hockey Fans.
Rest In Peace Mr. Brooks...May God Bless your family
To the family of Herb Brooks,
A true legend "has just left the building" and will be sadly missed.
Thank you Herb, you have been such an inspiration to me. I wasnt born when your team defeated the Soviets in the 1980 olypics, but whenever i see a documentry on it i am glued to the tv. It is truely the most exciting sports event ever. May you rest in peace
Coach Brooks made a difference! What a wonderful life!
With our deepest sympathy to his family and close friends.
The Osborne Family
Looking back one of the greatest honors in my life is was when Herb
invited me to sit at his table when he went into the all of Fame along
with Patti, Dan, Kelly and his presentor Mike E.
Even in death Herb is thinking of me as my flower arrangement at the funeral was pictured in Saturdays Tribune.
If Miracle on Ice was Hockey USA's
finest victory.---Then 8/11/03
was Minnesotas' biggest loss.
Scott Dahl
Duluth
I was only 7 years old and new to the US when Herb Brooks stunned the world by leading a team of rag-tag collegiates to victory over the USSR in hockey. To young to know what it meant to the nation and to the sport, but old enough to know that it was something big.
I didn't realize the dedication and firey spirit of Herb Brooks until many years later while watching a Colorado/ Pittsburgh game. In that game I saw a legendary coach stick up for Matthew Barnaby when he was accused of diving. I watched the passion in his eyes as he defended his player and I knew in that instant why he was so loved.
As a Pens fan I have been priviledged to watch Herb Brooks work and even more so to have gotten to meet him briefly and shake his hand. As a hockey fan I am deeply saddened at the loss of what is arguably one of the greatest men in the game.
My sympathies to the Brooks family. The hockey world has lost a great light and the world has lost a good man.
To the Brooks family, My condolences. Many years ago at the Kenny Yackle Hockey School, Herb came to the clinic with Mr. Cotroneo to skate with us. He was the only coach I've ever had who had us gather around him and then said. "OK kids, take off your helmets so I can see each one of you." I dont know why but that stuck with me. God Bless you all.
Goodbye Herbie,
I can't be there with all your other friends and family, although I wish I were.
We first met when you were playing at the UofM and my Dad (Pat Sr) would take me to join your up with your Dad (Herb Sr) and we'd all watch you and Dave play. Later, you gave me a set of used Gopher socks to wear when I started to play hockey--Thank you.
Most of all, thanks for all the great memories and moments over the past decades. I do believe in miracles!
I am at a loss for words. I grew up in rural MN, played hockey. Herb came to my senior year hockey banquet. I had, and have not since, heard anyone speak with such passion. Not just for hockey, but for life. That was 9 months before Feb. 1980. He was a passionate man. Thanks for the lesson Herb. And thanks(I think) for teaching every coach in Minnesota how drill "Herbies". Skate, Skate,Skate.
All legends are eventually known as mortals, like all of us. But they achieve more than most of us. Herb Brooks inspired America to reach for what had been an unattainable goal. I'm honored that he spent part of his career with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Dear Patti, Dan and Kelly,
I met Herb in a business setting many years ago. I was amazed at his special gift of making everyone he met feel very important, especially considering his own status of fame. I am so saddened by his untimely death, and wish all of your family God's peace as you heal from this tragedy.
Herbie, You will be missed forever by everyone!! Our Condolences go out to your loved ones and may God Bless them always.
Dear Patti, Dan and Kelly,
I met Herb several years ago when I was with IAI. I didn't know much about hockey then and I still don't, but I would like to think that I recognize a good person when I meet one -- and that would certainly be Herb.
My heart goes out to all of you at this very sad time.
As a young rookie sophmore from Edina playing in my first state tournament in 1955, I remember standing and listening in the wings as Johnson High received such a moving pep talk from Coach Rube Gustafson that the team hit the ice flying and most of them had forgotten to take off their skate guards and they fell like ten pins on the ice. To me this was the true Phalen Park Eastsider passion for the game and something that Herb Brooks personified. He was a true treasure for the State of Minnesota and the game of hockey. I went on to play college hockey with three members of this team and the 1956 team, and they too had that great love for the game that what Herbie as all about, and the proud work ethic of the Eastsider. He was a true gentlemen and champion and will be greatly missed. Kind Regards, Jim Richards
Thank you to Mr. Brook and for all you have ever done.
Thank you for being you, a man that was more than just hockey.
And thank you to your family for sharing you with us.
Keep the memories alive:
His legacy to us all is that our dreams can be a reality, that no obstacle is too great for the determined and the motivated. Believe and you can achieve.
Thanks for changing my life.
Thank you Herb! You were a great coach a great man and now a legend.Godspeed.
Patti: Hard to find words to help console an old friend but know you have my love.
Rest in peace Herb.....You will be greatly missed.
Thank you for all the memories, Mr. Brooks! You brought a ton of pride to a whole lot of Minnesotans-- May the Lord bless you!
Herb Brooks was Mr. Hockey America, and will be missed in the great sport of Hockey. As the great Bob Johnson said! It's a great day for Hockey, and I add, thanks to Mr.Brooks
As I get older I realize how many of my boyhood idols have become mortals. And how few people I could really look up to. Well today I can honestly say that I lost another hero. First Badger Bob and now Herbie. The world seems a little less bright and I know if there is a hockey league in heaven herbie and the Badger are pobably facing each other. Thank you Mr. Brooks for all your hard work with USA hockey and the Pens. You will not be forgotten.
My deepest condolences to Herb's family and friends as well as the whole hockey world.
I grew up behind the Iron Curtain where USSR's hockey team seemed to be unbeatable. However, once i had heard that in 1980, Tikhonov's unstopable team was defeated by the United States. Herb Brooks was the one "blamed" for this upset.
The hockey world has lost one of the best coatches. However, the greatest sport on the planet will remember Mr.Brooks forever.
Mr.Brooks
RIP.
Thanks for everything you did for Hockey and the Penguins.
Godspeed Herbie. I know you and Roger will be coaching some the best games of hockey ever seen on the other side!
Dear Patti, Dan and Kelly,
I am so sorry for your loss. The loss of your dad and husband had a profound impact on all hockey fans. But you have lost a loving husband of 38 years and a father and grandfather to your children.
I was in awe of Mr. Brooks - - I saw him frequently at a physical therapy office, (where we were both receiving treatment) and I just could not bring myself to speak to him. Finally, he spoke to me - - "Hi!" he said. And I will not forget how "normal" he was. Just another guy, getting help with a bum shoulder....
I pray for God's peace and guidance for all of you through these difficult days. May your memories sustain you all.
Godspeed Herbie! Thank you for everything, on and off the ice
I was traveling on the same road, heading south, when i heard the news of his death, i didnt know him but was deeply sadded of the news, my symothey gos out to his family
To Patti and family,may God be with you all in the coming days and weeks. I am sure Herb will be silently coaching you all the way.
I am a '55 classmate at Johnson High and saw Herb a number of times over the years. He once gave a motivational talk at 3M and it was very evident how he could inspire his teams to great accomplishments. Thanks Herb from all of us who were so proud to watch your achievements. You will be missed.
It's hard to swallow that a legend like Mr. Brooks is gone. Thanks for all you've done for hockey and everything you've done for the Penguins organization. You will be truly missed.
Thank You Coach Brooks... for the Miracle on Ice.
My deepest regrets to the Brooks family. I am a transplanted Eastsider. I used to see Herbie down at the barber shop on the Eastside of St. Paul for years. He was always a joy to talk to. We talked hockey & we talked about the Eastside of St. Paul. I was so proud of Herbie since he came from my part of town & he was so down to earth to talk to. We all lost a great Minnesotan & a super neighbor.
To family and friends of Herb Brooks:
I wish to pass along my sincerest heart-felt sympathy for your loss. As a hockey fan growing up in Pittsburgh in the 70s, 80s, and early 90s, I have learned as much about hockey and its history as I can. Herb Brooks leaves his mark on a sport much the same way Bob Johnson did. More important than that, you can see the impact on the boys he turned into men and left them with lessons-learned that they will use the rest of their lives. I never met Mr. Brooks, but he was obviously someone of high integrity with the work ethic and drive that everyone should strive to emulate. Please don't be sad at his passing, but be joyous at the opportunity to have known this man.
My Prayers and Thoughts go out to your Family.
I wanted to say, Herb may be gone here in this world but he will always be with you in your Heart!!!!
What a wonderful man/human being. Made you proud to stand up and say "Im from Minnesota, home of Herb Brooks"...Rest in peace, condolences to the Brooks family..
To the family of Coach Brooks,
So sorry to hear of the loss of Coach Brooks. He embodied class wherever he went, and I am sure he is doing the same where he is now. He supplied me with one of my all-time greatest memories in sports, the 1980 Olympic Gold medal. I will never forget what he accomplished with that Gold medal team, and all that he accomplished with his many services to the Pittsburgh Penguins. God bless you and your family, Coach Brooks.
This story has more meaning to me now then it did when it happened...but I thought I would share how great of a man he was.
Last September my cousin went on a road trip to Columbus Ohio to see a preseason game against the Blue Jackets. As we sat outside Nationwide Arena in our Penguin gear waiting to get into the arena to our surprise up came walking Herbie Brooks. To most he was unrecognizable but to us as Penguin Fans we knew who he was so we decided to say hello. He sat down on a bench beside us and talked to us for almost an hour...He thanked us for making the long trip for a simple preseason game....of course we talked hockey..asking about our favorite players.. (MOROZOV FOR ME)had a picture taken with us and was smiling the whole time.
As we entered the arena we thought our adventure was over...but as I stood there talking on my cell phone ( I of course called a friend from home right away to tell her what had happened) As we stood there talking he walked by us again and of course new we were talking about meeting him. He took my cell phone and spoke with my friend on the other line for like 5 minutes. Again very cool. And yet it was still not over for our HERBIE BROOKS adventure.
On our way home we stopped at Iceoplex to see the guys and to our surprise again there was Herbie....He came up to us and began talking the other people were like what's going on here...we were all like...Yeah we go way back...hehe!!! He pulled me aside and told me to get something for Morozov to autograph and he would take it to him to sign. So I had a picture I got at Iceoplex and upon him returning it to me it said "To Michelle....All the Best... Aleksey Morozov" I treasured that autograph and still do..... but as I think today I treasure the person who got it for me even more. I am just a simple girl who loves the Penguins and a person for one weekend crossed the path of Herb Brooks. He touched my life for just a small time...but you could tell he loved every minute of it. Imagine how many more lives and how much more he touched the lives of others.
I'll miss you Herbie..... Thank you for making a simple girl from Pennsylvania have an unforgettable weekend of adventures.
God Bless.
In the early 70’s, while I was a student, Herb Brooks, Olympic hockey player and college hockey coach, was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Johnson High School.
Another gentleman was inducted that day. He was a doctor who worked with plants – a man who was considered to be one of the one hundred most important people in the world in the 1950’s.
Herb spoke plainly at the induction and, with great humility, made it clear how humbled he was to share the stage with this accomplished man. And it seemed as if he really thought that he should not be there at all - even though, before many future glories, he was already a household name throughout Minnesota.
In his speech that day, he mentioned his greatest thrill – playing on the Johnson High School team when it won the state high school hockey tournament. This was his greatest thrill, he explained, by virtue of the impression that can be left by such things when one is young. It was the boy talking, the same one that would bring Minnesota and our country to glory by “bringing out the boy” in his players.
In one of those great ironies, after he coached the 1980 U.S. Olympic (Miracle on Ice) Hockey Team, many people around the globe considered Herb to be one of the one hundred most important people in the world!
Wendy Hess
St. Paul
Our heartfelt sympathy to the family
From your 1980 Miracle on Ice victory, to your position of player development coach to our Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, we thank you for making hockey the respected sport it is today. Your passion for the sport and your contributions will never be forgotten.
My sincere condolences to the Brooks family, the Pittsburgh Penguins organization and to every person's life that you have touched over your career.
R.I.P. Herb Brooks
It was a sad day when the world lost a true hockey hero...Thanks for everything you did and God Bless. You were the best and will be truly missed.
Mr. Brooks,
Thank you for all that you've done for hockey in Pittsburgh and for the USA.
Our prayers are with your family and friends.
Herb: You were definately "A Pittsburgh kinda guy." Thanks
Herbie,
I watched the 70's Gopher Championships at Williams Arena and was not at all surprised when the 80's Olympic hockey team won the Gold. After all, I had watched you do the same thing with the Gophers to bring home those National Championships! And, when I worked at William's Arena my last winter at the U, you always stopped and chatted with me for a couple of minutes as you went in for hockey practice. I'm so sorry to see you go; please say hi to Les for me.
Thank you Herb, for a great service to your country. Rest in peace.
Thankyou Coach Brooks for passing your spirit and values to so many players and fans throughout our planet. I never had the pleasure to shake your hand, but have met and worked with many who did. Your legacy has just begun. We all are blessed with your memory. Thankyou.
To Patti and family, May comforting prayers help you all through your loss on earth of Herb. He will forever be a shining star in your hearts and the world. He was everyone's person. From when I worked for him to calling him to speak at a convention for me and he worked it in. Always there to make you feel special. Be ready, heaven, for a great man.
THANKS'MR BROOKS FOR EVERYTHING.
Thanks Herb. You touched so many people throughout your life both in and out of sports, your memory will live on.
Herbie and family,
The world knows Herb as a fabulous Hockey Coach, with a remarkable ability to develop skilled hockey players and a lifetime of winning achievements.
Herb's hockey roots date back to an Eastside outdoor hockey rink at Lake Phalen in a kids hockey program coached by dads before there was an organized kids hockey program. Herb played on the Johnson High School state hockey championship teams of 1953 & 1955 (runner-ups in 1954). Herb was an outstanding player with a quiet determination and a total team player. Even then Herb showed his ability to pull the entire team together. Minn state hockey was dominated by the Northern Minnesota teams, but Johnson H.S. took 2 out of 3 championships, and a 2nd place during these 3 years of H.S. play. A mini-version of the "Miracle on Ice" a generation later. A tribute to the hockey dads that taught these kids the game and their character.
Herb devoted his life to spreading this legacy throughout the world of hockey. His hockey coaching accomplishments speaks for itself, but is surpassed by his accomplishments in helping people build their confidence in themselves and their character. May you rest in Eternity. Doug Norman, classmate, Johnson H.S., 1955 & U. of Minn., 1960
To the Family of Herb Brooks,
I am very sorry about your loss of this special man. So I was so shocked and also it was a very sad day for all of us. You have my deepest heartfelt sympathy. He was the great coach of hockey in all over and he was very respected man in our Minnesota. I admired him so much and will never forget him. He is a true hockey legend! So many good memories about him and hockey, too. He will be sorely missed by all of us, people in America. God bless you all the Brooks family.
Love, Nelly the biggie hockey fan
Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with the family. We are so sad to hear of your loss. May the LOVE of your Husband, Father, Grandfather always shine in your heart. He will live with you for ever.
As a student at numerous camps run by Mr. Brooks as a youth I remember him as an inspirational man who treated all of us like we had all of the potential in the world. It meant everything to a kid to get words of praise from the coach of the Gophers and made 1980 even more special to those of us who had been around him.
Decades later, during chance encounters on airplanes, he was approachable, friendly, and willing to chat about hockey when he probably felt more like being left alone. A special man who truly loved the game. The State of Hockey will miss him but will always have a special place for him.
Minnesota still loves Herb Brooks and mourns with the Brooks family.
It was a pleasure to know you.
Dear Mrs. Brooks:
I'm sorry to heard about the lost of a fine and gentle person in your husband.
I've met your briefly while my wife and I live in Minnesota as he was at a benefit that he was at.
Yes we lost a great man in the hockey world but we can also think on what he as accomplish on what he
did as the coach at the University of Minnesota and also the coach of the Minnesota North Stars and yes the miracle on ice at the Winter Olympics in Lake Plicad, N.Y. as the USA best the Soviet Union and winning the Gold Medal.
We the nation was very much proud
that we had Mr. Brooks coaching that team to the Miracle on ice.
Also Mrs. Brooks, think of the happier days that you and him had always. that will give you the happier day during the saddiest day
on Saturday Morning.
I wished that my wife and I could be there but we will be there in spirit on that day.
Sincerely.
Mr and Mrs. Michael Rose
My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Herb Brooks. He was a true example of sportsmanship for all athletes.
To the Brooks family, my deepest condolences. I never met Herb, but was friends with one of the Miracle Men. Herb, do me a favor & tell Lester Auge that his Texas friends miss him dearly.
Patti
To the Brooks family,
I was in the class of "56" at Johnson and got my first taste of hockey. We were always getting the players together and having so much fun. Herbie was one of my favorites. I followed his whole career. He made everyone from Johnson so very proud.
God Bless you Patti, and your whole family.
DEAR MRS BROOKS, YOUR HUSBAND WAS AN ICON IN THE HOCKEY WORLD. HE WAS ALSO A GREAT HUMAN BEING IN REAL LIFE. HE WILL BE SADDLEY MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN.MAY GOD BE WITH YOU IN ALL THE DAYS THAT LIE AHEAD. SINCERELY, DAVE STADTERMAN
My condolences go out to the Brooks family. You were the reason why so many of us who grew up in the great state of Minnesota wanted to play hockey and play for the Gophers.
My deepest heart-felt sympathy goes out to the entire Brooks family. I have followed Pittsburgh hockey for many years and will always be grateful for the impact that Herb made.
What can I say that hasn't been said already ? Thanks for being you. Rest In Peace coach.
My sympathy to the Brooks family and all fellow Minnesotans. We have lost an icon of hockey, but most importantly a good family man. Herbies leadership in the 1980 Olympics made me so proud to be and American an alumni of Johnson High School.
Godspeed Herbie..
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES, HERBIE. MY CONDOLANCES TO THE BROOKS FAMILY.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Brooks family. Thank you Coach Brooks for all that you have done for the game of hockey.
The Brooks Family:
I talked to Coach Brooks several times at various tournaments around the country. He always made positive comments although I was wearing my North Dakota gear. He was a gentleman and thanks for lending him out for 1980. It was a great show.
DEAR BROOKS FAMILY -WE KNOW THAT GOD IS TAKING CARE OF YOU-THIS IS SO SAD-VERY HARD,THE MATTER OF CLOSURE?WELL IT DOES NOT-IT ALL GETS CLEARER AND WARMER THOUGH-AND YES GOD,THANKS FOR HERB BROOKS.
Being a native of Minnesota, I felt very sad to find out that a great individual was no longer with us. The reality is he will always be with us in our hearts and in our souls.
For all the achievments he has made and the lives that he had changed, I say "Thank You" Mr. Herb Brooks. God Bless you in heaven, and God Bless your family here on earth.
I was fortunate enough to meet Herb last year when he spoke to our adminitrative staff here at 3M. What a wonderful and inspiring man! My deepest sympathies to your family. This is truely a great loss.
Thanks for the great memories Herb! You will be truly missed...
My thoughts and prayers are with the Brooks family, the Minnesota family, the Penguins family and the 1980 players as well.
It doesnt seem fair. I just want to talk to God and say why?
It wasnt supposed to end like this.
For ANYONE who knows ANYTHING about February 1980, this country OWES a debt to Herb Brooks that can never be repaid.
If there was ever a man for his time, it was Herb Brooks.
Truly God sent him here for a reason. We were ALL privledged to watch that reason.
I wept with joy when the 1980 Olympic team beat the Russians...as a season ticket holder, I had the opportunity to meet Herb Brooks in 1987, when he took the reins of the Minnesota North Stars...I mourn this great man now...
My Deepest Sympathy to the Brooks Family, I was saddened by the news of our old Eastside friend,I will always remember what Herb meant to me coming from the Eastside community and Minnesota.
I still remember the day when the 1980 USA hockey team captured gold from the world. I was only a kid living in Wyoming, but it is vivid memory. Moments after the game with Finland, the words "USA GOLD" were written in red dye on a Casper Mountain ski slope to celebrate the victory. Mr. Herb Brooks officially became a legend that day.
It is with great sorrow that we have to mourn his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Brooks' family. Your loss is our loss.
Respectfully,
Rejoice! for Herbie is with the Lord and I, just one fan of millions, share your sorrow here on earth.
You taught us to believe dreams can come true.
I SIT WITH TEARS IN MY EYES ,THINKING BACK TO THE MOMENT MY MOM CAME UP TO MY ROOM WHILE I WAS SICK IN BED WITH THE FLU. IT WAS 1980. THE GAME HAD ALREADY BEEN PLAYED. THE LOOK ON HER FACE TOLD ME.THE UNITED STATES HAD WON! WE BOTH CRIED. AND THEN WE WATCHED THE GAME.AGAIN AND AGAIN. MR. BROOKS, WE NEVER GOT THE CHANCE TO FORMALLY MEET, HOWEVER, FROM THAT DAY ON YOU HAVE ALWAYS BEEN PART OF OUR FAMILY.REST IN PEACE.MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY NOW.
Dear Coach Brooks,
Thank you for taking the time to teach a kid the details of the game and allow me to be a part of all those great Gopher teams. I appreciated greatly my time as the team "stick boy" and doing what I could to help. But most of all, I appreciated the pats on the head, the 1-1 moments of teaching and always making me feel like I was a part of the team. Even years later, you took the time to drop me a letter regarding our first Championship that I have kept to this day.
Not a day goes by, when I am with my own team, that I'm not using something from all those years of listening to you - on the bus, on the bench and in the locker room.
May God bless your soul with the same magnitude that you have blessed our lives. Good-bye my friend, my coach and my distant mentor. Keep skating and enjoy looking back on a life well lived. My deepest sympathy to your family and may your strength and resolve in life be their cornerstone to lean on during this difficult time.
Warmest regards and fondest memories,
Mark Wilbur
Head Coach, Ice Hockey
University of Southern California
I can't tell you how hard I cried when I heard of the news...Herb was my "Hero" and he always will be! The World will miss him so ! There is definitely some great hockey games going on up in Heaven tho - someday we ALL will witness the "Miracles" he has going on up there. Mr. Blue Eyes...you will NEVER be forgotten and May You Rest With Peace - you left our World too early and your memories will never be forgotten! To Patti and Family...you are in our thoughts and prayers !
After growing up in Minnesota and loving the sport of hockey it saddens me to see one of the true visionaries pass. May God's blessings be with family and friends during this difficult time. Every American remembers where they were in 1980 when Mr. Brooks guided the U.S. to the Olympic hockey Gold Medal. Again, may God's blessings be with you all.
Dear Brooks Family -
When I think of great leaders, motivators, integrity, honor and hockey I think of Herb Brooks. As a boy who grew up in Minnesota playing hockey I had the privilege of witnessing the National Championships at the U of M and the 1980 Gold Medal victory. More importantly, these incredible accomplishments spanned more than the game of hockey for me. Mr. Brooks personified all that is right about being a decent human being, working hard and being an American. While attending his hockey camps as a kid he made it point to connect with each and every kid at the camp. That kind of personal attention deeply affected me as a hockey player, man and husband. His wonderful family, contributions to the game of hockey and more importantly what he did for a country on the ropes in 1980 will be his legacy.
Thank you Mr. Brooks
To the family and friends of Herb Brooks,
In light of your sudden loss, may you take comfort in knowing that your loved one lives on in the hearts and minds of millions more around the world. The game of hockey is better to have known Herb Brooks.
May God be with you and your family at this time and always. I'm so very sorry.
Kathy
To the Brooks family i'm so sorry of your lost. May god be with at this time.
Kathy
First time I ever watched hockey was during the Olympics and I never missed a game. Still remember how great it felt to watch history in the making when they won the gold over the Russians. He will be greatly missed!
Herb's family are in our prayers for the great loss and their time of sadness.
D. Ronnei
To Mr. Brooks's family and friends the world only knows the kind of man that Herbie was. I used to enjoy going to Williams arena and watching the Gophers Play.Playing hockey in Grand Rapids And watching My Brother Donny play for the Gophers under the Masters Guidence of you Herbie. That year they won the NCAA. Herbie you brought so much not only to Minnesota Hockey but to the world as well. God Bless You and Heaven just got one of the best coaches ever. My condolences go out to the family and friends
I was only 8 years old when the miracle happened. I had no idea of its impact. Now as an avid hockey fan and History teacher, the impact is so clear. I still get chills when I watch that game or see an excerpt of it. Thank you, Mr. Brooks, for the greatest moment in sports and one of the greatest in US history.
My condolences to the family. I regret that I was unable to see the Miracle on Ice live, when I was in high school in Iowa, I had chosen to see a Sioux City Musketeer hockey game instead. However I vividly remember the announcer updateing us on the score. I have never missed another U.S. Olympic Hockey game since. Thank you Herb.
To the Family,
We were truely saddened to hear of Herb's passing. He will be missed dearly. He was a great advocate for hockey here in Minnesota and around the world.
Thanks for the many, great memories, Coach! God Speed!
The single-most inspirational hockey figure in history. Thanks for the memories, you will be sorely missed.
I started at the University of Minnesota in 1979 and remember the teams of that era. I also remember the improbable defeat of the Soviets. I have been a Gopher season ticket holder for many years and was at the games in St. Paul when the Gophers broke their long national title deficit. My heart is with Gopher hockey and it goes out to the family of Herb Brooks. He really was a legend. God bless him.
Scott
As a kid growing up in Rochester, MN, I used to go to all of the semi-pro Rochester Mustangs games, and I'll never forget the two years Herb Brooks played for them. He was never the best player on the team, but was by far the most intense. That's what I'll always remember about him. His intesity on the ice, whether the score was 1-1, 10-0 or 0-10!!
From Dale A Labby Pittsburgh Will miss you
I was covering the Winter Olympics in 1980 for the local paper. I remember how hard it was to get credentials to the U.S.-Russian game. I sat behind Al Michaels nearly in the rafters at Lake Placid. I'll never forget the game and the crowd and the U.S. players after the game. I saw Herb head for the dressing room. He wanted the players to get the credit. I followed Herb's coaching career, especially with the Rangers. He was an excellent coach. My thought and prayers are with his family. God bless.
When someone of a famous stature passes we hear all of the kudos of what a great person this individual was. It often appears to be from persons that knew the party for their fame.
I did not know Herb from the "ice". I met Herb playing golf at Oak Glen Country Club with a long time friend Dave Johnson. That was in the late 80's. I got to see him at least annually after that.
From one of the "little guys", I can say that Herb was a great guy. He always remembered those of us that were "less famous", or at least he made us feel like he did.
A true example of what Minnesota Nice is all about, Herb Brooks is and will always be "Mr. Minnesota Nice".
I thank you for sharing him with us.
A hockey player since I was six years old, I graduated from high school in a small northern Minnesota town in 1979--as the Gophers were finishing a run of NCAA hockey championships, and just before the 1980 Olympics. Herb Brooks, the sport he loved, and the teams he guided, obviously meant something to me.
Unfortunately, I never met the man. But I read, or viewed on TV, much about him. As a young hockey coach, I learned much from him--lessons that I still use to this day as I coach youth hockey in Colorado.
I will soon invite my 2003-04 Pee Wee hockey team--17 or 18, eleven and twelve year olds over to my house. I'll get them hopped-up on spaghetti, Mountain Dew and chocolate chip cookies, then pop in the ESPN Sports Century tapes of Bobby Orr and Wayne Gretzky. Then--as I do every year, these young Colorado hockey players will sit glued in front of the television as we watch the 1980 Miracle On Ice. I always brag about how half that team was from Minnesota! Watching that tape this year will surely take on new meaning. Every team I ever coach will see it. During those two hours, they will become acquainted with Coach Brooks. He, and that entire 1980 Olympic team, will leave a lasting impression on them. Who knows--maybe I'll be coaching a future Gopher this year!?!
I will be bringing my hockey team to northern Minnesota this December or January--to either Duluth or, more likely, Grand Rapids for a tournament. As in years past we'll try to set up a game in Cloquet where Millen, Plante and Langenbrunner grew up. We'll try to set up an outdoor game for the boys in a small town...perhaps in Eveleth near the USA Hockey Hall of Fame. We'll teach them much about the history of hockey in Minnesota.
Every year, the boys love the trip to Minnesota. They love it because Minnesota IS hockey. Due in large part to the gifted, life-long dedication to the sport of Coach Brooks.
He will be missed but he will be remembered--even by young hockey players who have yet to hear his name, and learn of his contributions and accomplishments.
I will see to it.
Thanks Herb...
To Herb Brooks family--my sincerest sympathy. As for Herb Brooks---- I watched him as a coach in the 70's at the U of MN. Then as the coach of the "Miracle on Ice" team. I have always been proud to be an American, but even moreso that day! And for all the encouragement for many people at all stages of their lives. You were truly a leader among leaders. Thank you. Bless you.
Coach,
I grew up in Minnesota and graduated from St. Cloud State. You inspired more people than you will ever know. RIP.
Back in the 1970's Herbie and Paul Giel always attended our annual fund raiser for the Williams Scholarship Fund in Blue Earth, Mn..
Herbie liked our 9 hole golf course and always gave us a pep talk on starting a hockey program in Blue Earth which is right on the Iowa border..
Now together with Fairmont, Blue Earth youth play hockey... Has to be due to Herbie's influence. He was a great guy and always remembered me and Blue Earth..
I remember the 1980 Olympics and the "Miracle on Ice" quite well. One of the best sporting events in history. You led 'em there, and you will be forever immortalized in the hearts of hockey fans everywhere as a result. You were one of the best, Herb.
You were a great person as well as a great coach. Thanks for helping my baby pens out.
I will miss you, and my prayers are with your family.
I WAS A YOUNG BOY AT THE TIME OF THE OLYMPIC MIRICLE. IT SHOWED ME HOW HARD WORK AND DEDICATION DOES PAY OFF, I'VE BEEN A HOCKEY LOVER EVER SINCE, AND I APPLY SOME OF HERB'S PRINCIPLES TO MY LIFE AS A BROADCASTER. I DID NOT KNOW HERB PERSONALLY, BUT I WANTED TO SAY THANKS FOR THE LESSONS IN COMPETITION AND THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES. AFTER LAKE PLACID I BELIEVED ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN IF YOU CONTINUE TO DREAM, AND WORK HARD TOWARD YOUR DREAMS
JD JUSTICE
WLLR RADIO
DAVENPORT IOWA
I remember the turmoil going on in our country at the time of the 1980 Olympics: prices rising for food and gas daily, our hostages in Iran, a lack of leadership in our nation's capitol.
But there was one area of strength of leadership that kept shining on - our Olympic team and its great coach - Herb Brooks. The teamwork, desire & passion, and willingness to give it your all, was truly the example our country needed to get it jump-started on the road to recovery again!
Thanks, Coach Brooks, for giving our nation what it needed most in a time of discouragement. That hockey team in heaven just got a little better with the inclusion of "The Coach"! Take good care of him, God, as we will be expecting a perfect team this time around!!!!
Coach Brooks was a special man to a
a lot of people. I am very fortunate to have known him. Life will go on but will have a major hole in it without Herb, God Bless My Sympathy goes out for Patty and his family.
God bless you Herb & your entire family.
When we heard of Herb, it was a shock. He grew up in the Phalen park area and attended Johnson High School as my children did. Hockey was the game. Rube Gustafson the coach. Then there was Herb who took the limelight with his wonderful talent of being the World's top coach. He will be in our thoughts and prayers for many years to come. May he rest in peace. Our condolences go out to his family.friends, and all the many students and players who mourn for him.
Herb was a good guy and a great coach. It was a pleasure knowing him and covering him as Devils' and Rangers' coach.
Hugh Delano
Sportswriter, New York Post
Growing up as young hockey players everyone knows Herb Brooks, and I was no exception. My high school team went to state in 1995 and we are all extremely fired up to play. He spoke at our banquet dinner the night before the quarterfinals, and I didn't think it would be possible to be more motivated and ready to strive for the greatest goal in our young hockey lives before his speech. However afterwards we felt like we could have beaten anyone. God Bless Herb Brooks and Thank you for making every US hockey player believe in miracles.
The best tactician and coach that hockey ever saw, or will likely see in my lifetime. I've only been affected by a handful of deaths of people that I didn't personally know, and this is CLEARLY one which affects me. I had hoped that Herb would return to coach the NYR and save the NHL. There was only 1 coach who could've beaten the trap, and done it with the EXCITING hockey, that HE brought to the league in the 1st place. Now there's none. Herb, I didn't know you, But I REALLY miss you.
You will be deeply missed and always remebered as a Minnesota Sports Legend.
To the Brooks family; please know that every American in 1980 became a hockey fan because of Herb; that thousands of hockey coaches and captains of teams from pee wee to NHL have since closed their locker room doors and told their players "you were born for this moment", because Herb had said it, and it worked; that for one brief shining weekend oin the midst of a n Americna malaise, Herb took us above it all, grabbed the country by the throat and made it better, if just for a long wonderful weekend. Herb and Craig Patrick and all the boys of that winter team will never be forgotten; they were al truly born for that moment, and Herb's passing is not an end to anything, just a reminder of how the game ends for all of us sooner or later; but how many of us will ever taste such victory? We mourn Herb even as we envy him; he truly lived, he truly triumphed!
I'm not old enough to have seen Herb's Miracle On Ice in person, but from what i hear and see, obviously it was great! i just wish i had the chance to see it in person. Herb's legacy will live on forever in the entire hockey world.
R.I.P Herb
My deepest condolences to the Brooks family.
To paraphrase a nugget of advice to youth hockey coaches from Herb Brooks in the '70's when we lived in Hudson, Wisconsin..."shut off the scoreboard and let 'em play"...
As a college student studying to be a teacher and hockey coach I watched every second of the 1980 Olympic hockey games "Miracle on Ice." I loved how Herb coached and the style of game he used. I dreamed of one day meeting him.
My dream came true my first year of coaching high school hockey. I got a chance to meet him at a clinic when he was coaching at St. Cloud State. I probably would have been content to just shake his hand that day. What transpired was a beginning of a friendship. Herb had me come to practices at St. Cloud and would mentor me as a new coach.
Since that time we've talked on the phone, played golf, and have written many letters back and forth to each other.
Herb wrote letters of recommendations for me, called potential employers for me, but most of all he constantly encouraged me. He always would have time for me and he always made me feel special.
I'll miss you, Herb. The memories I have of your warm, kind friendship with me will never be forgotten!
Tell Lester Auge that all his Texas friends miss him dearly.
As a former resident of the Twin Cities in the late 70's and all through the 80's I enjoyed watching Herb Brooks coached teams at the U of M and went to several of the pre-Olympic games. He and his team made me proud to be a Minnesotan as well as an American. Even though I had never met him personally I felt like I knew him. He will be greatly missed.
RIP HERB! I had the pleasure of meeting Herb and having my picture taken with him. He was here alot guiding the Baby Penguins. The entire hockey world will miss Herbie!
Herb, Thanks for showing all of us what we can accomplish if we work together and dig deep inside ourselves. You taught us we can accomplish anything we truly believe we can. thanks for comming to Pittsburgh and letting us enjoy you during the 99-2000 season. God Bless you Herb, and thank you.
Dear Patty. So sorry. Such a sad time for you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers
A great coach who turned a not so great team into a great team and won the gold in the olympics.
With the tragedy of Herb's passing on August 11th 2003 and the national tragedy of September 11th, I will remember the 11th day of the month forever!! :(
I feel like Herb Brooks was a member of my family. For more than 30 years my Dad, Gary Olson, covered sports in Minnesota and had lots of great stories to tell about his friend, "Herbie." What a loss for the Brooks, Minnesota, and fans of hockey around the world.
My deepest condolences.
Herbie, you provide goosebumps for a Nation (not many can say that!)...you and your family are in our prayers
I grew up in a "hockey" family in South Minneapolis. My brother,Wiz, started playing hockey in the third grade. In those days the games were played at skating rinks on Lake of the Isles or a neighboring park. We never missed a game. We spent several summer vacations in Aspen,CO. so my brother could go to the hockey camp my uncle Bob ran. Herb Brooks name always seemed to come up during those summer outings as well as many times during dinner when hockey season was in full swing. I did not know the Brooks family personally yet, the love of the sport made all of us family. We lost our coach(Dad) suddenly at age 62. We lost Badger Bob way before his time and now that dear man, Herb Brooks, has gone to join them. It surely is a sad day for hockey but, a glorious day for the Lord! My heart goes out to Patti and all the Brooks children. Cacky Wyatt-West High School. U of M
The legends of "Gopher Herb" and "Badger Bob" will continue to be discussed for years by all who are true hockey fans. We are thankful for having seen true talent at work. God Bless!!
HERB I ONLY MEET YOU ONCE FOR A MINUTE BUT YOU WERE GREAT.
BRUCE KOETZ
BOONE IA
Thanks for the memories ! And for sticking with us EastSiders. You
will be missed by thousands !!
Hockey and non-hockey fans.
Prays go out to your loved ones.
God Bless you Herbie. Rest in Peace.
Herb Brooks, you will be greatly missed. Even though I wasn't even alive in 1980, every time I see footage I cry. This is a loss for hockey, the USA, and Pittsburgh - but I hope you're having fun coaching against Badger up there. RIP
I am very shocked and saddened to hear of Herb Brooks' passing. I never got to watch him make the miracle, but just from what I got to know of him over the past 7 or 8 years as he was part of the Penguins organization made me gain such a great respect for him.
Out of everyone I have ever admired in the hockey world, Herb Brooks was always right there at the top when Id discuss great minds in the game of hockey and I didnt even know nearly the full story of how great he truely was all-around.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. God speed Mr. Brooks.
When Everyone Thinks of Mr.Brooks they think of the Miralcle On ice, I know I do but I also think of another Upset courtesy of Mr.Brooks in 2000 when he was tookover Kevin Constintine's job as Head Coach of the Pengins, he took the team to the playoffs and they were 8th seed an they had to play the number one seed Washington I knew the Penguins already had their tickets to Philadelphia after game one but the thing that will stick out in my memory of this series that a week before the playoffs Washingtons head coach Ron Wilson said ''I don't care if they Beat us 8-1 we will still win the Series,so that score was Exactley the score then to win he series 4-1 I was the Happiest Kid to see his local team lose very badly
I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Brooks, his wife and son while working at Tautges, Redpath.
My heart goes out to his family and friends. He will be missed by all!!
I am just a friend from our youthful days at St. James Episcopal Church - we were confirmed together there - and always a fan.
Patty
I am saddend by this new's.Please know that all of us in the Springfield community are praying for you and the rest of the family.
God Bless
Love,Maureen (MO)
Herbie....R.I.P
May your memory live forever! Thank you for making the sport of hockey what it is today!! Every Hockey fan will miss you greatly! As a WILD fan we will win the cup for YOU!!! Thank you and Godbless!!
So few heroes; so many memories! May God bless you and your family.
He made us all a little prouder to be an American in 1980. Thanks for the miracle Herb Brooks! We'll never forget!
I grew up in Minnesota and also watched as coach Brooks delivered the "Miracle On Ice". I was also lucky enough to hear Herbie speak at my high school's athletic banquet. I was touched by everything Herb Brooks stood for. He was an amazing coach, speaker and individual and it's unfortunate we now mourn his loss. My heartfelt condolences to his entire family and all his friends in hockey and beyond.
My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to Patti "Mrs. Brooks", Dan, and especialy Kelly, an old friend and classmate from St. John the Baptist in New Brighton. I'm so sorry on the loss of your dad.
Jeanne
What a man and a coach, as a Alumni of St. Paul Johnson I took pride in saying he went to my high school. I pray Gods peace to the Brooks family.
I pray young men and women athletes can grasp his legacy.
Michael Angelo Pilla, Minneapolis
michaelangelo@pclink.c om
When the news reached the West coast about the death of Herb Brooks, several sports fans asked me, a former Minnesotan, what I knew of the famed hockey coach. I tell them that he was not only a sports figure, he was part of our heritage, our culture,our lives-someone we are proud to say, "He was a Minnesotan." He'll be missed. Officer Jack Richter, Los Angeles Police
Department.
The tragic news of hockey's mastermind, Herb Brooks, is heartbreaking.
Having coached Mark through the US Olympics and New York Rangers, we had come to respect and admire the man and to love him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this great loss.
The Pavelich Family
Rest in peace to an American Hero.
Our condolences to Coach Brooks' family & friends. Thank you for all you've done for hockey and the great state of Minnesota!
Chris, Shannon & Garrett Jackson
There are a few men in each liftime that exceed the normal expectations of performance, Herb Brooks certainly was one of those men. God bless Herb and be with his family at this time of loss.
Many thanks go out to you Herbie. The hockey world would not be the same without you. I'm sure you are up there making sure that all is right in hockey. Thank you for all the memories.
Although i was born in South Africa, currently live in Vancouver and i'm too young to have witnessed "The Miracle", I realize what an impact Herb had on the hockey world. He didn't steal the spotlight, but rather chose to be a silent leader. RIP Herb.
You will be missed by all of MN and also the world... Mary and Dave Brislance
Herb, thank you for the wonderful hockey memories.
He is and always will be the man, myth, and legend...Herb, God Speed.
Herb Brooks,
Thanks for the memories, and for bringing hockey the dignity it deserves.
My deepest symthany to the family. I worked with him at W. A. Lang Co. in the 60's & 70's.
A true American Original and a passionate Minnesotan. God Bless.
I met Herb on a flight from Mpls to NY late in 79 when he was training the Olympians. I was spellbound for the 3 hours we spent together, talking not just about sports but also life in general. A man ahead of his time and a great person. Thanks for spending those few hours with me. They effected my life.
Thank you for your wonderful contribution to the world of sports and all you have helped.
RIP Herb, you will be sadly missed in person, but your legacy and the good you brought into the World will live on and you will continue to be an inspiration to many of us.
My condolences to the Brooks Family on your tragic loss.
Herbie was a one of a kind, larger than life, living legend. As a student at the U of M during the 1979 Championship Season, my friends and I always looked forward to reading the Minnesota Daily to review the latest "Herbieisms." Herbie's comments were meant to motivate his players and many times we'd chuckle at his audacity. All Golden Gopher hockey fans are in his debt for the fabulous job he did for his alma mater. As well as the entire USA Hockey Nation for his tremendous contributions.
PS - Dear God, the greatest hockey coach in U.S. history is behind the bench for you now. Expect to have your expectations exceeded.
Herb was such a class guy and meant
so much to everyone's life that he touched..Rest in peace my good man..
Minnesota and the world of Hockey has just lost a great coach and a special person. Herb Brooks will be sadly missed. I hope there is a hockey team in heaven that is in need of a coach.
My condolences to the Brooks family.
Having had the pleasure of making Herbs travel reservations over the past year we learned we both had mothers in the 90's. That was always a topic, and every phone call, Herb asked about my mother. He was just such a caring person, and this is a great loss for hockey and most of all his family.
So glad I had the privilege of working with him. Truly sorry I never met him in person. Needless to say, he will be greatly missed.
Judy Getz - Navigant International
When they interviewed one of the Russian guys about the 1980 Lake Placid Games, he commented " We lost to a bunch of students".
This was meant that the Soviets were men, and the USA were boys.
In reality, they lost to the master student of the game - HERB BROOKS - and his pupils. The world of hockey will never forget Coach Brooks. God Bless.
I knew Herbie when I was a sports reporter for the U of M's Minnesota Daily, and he was coach of the freshman team. As I recall, Herbie was later assistant to Glen Sonmor. Coincidentally, two of my roommates were on the freshman team. Herbie was always generous with his time, even to a "cub" reporter. I had no direct contact with Herbie following my U of M days, but I was always proud to have known him. He will be missed!
Pittsburgh and the rest of the world will miss you, thanks for everything.
Herb-
You have touched the lives of so many people. We always ask ourselves why bad things happen to such good people. All I can think of is John Mariucci and Bagder Bob Johnson must have had a big disagreement on the Big Pond in the Sky and Big Guy Upstairs had to call in reinforcements, so he brought in a higher power.
In all seriousness, Herb, we are all better people in some way or another, hockey related or not, to have had you amongst us. As a child growing up on the Iron Range until now, I have felt your impact. I have never felt more proud to be a Minnesotan and an American. Herb, the Iron Range, especially Biwabik, and the entire State of Hockey, and the great country we live in owe you a debt of gratitude. Thanks for the Memories and Miracles!
Thanks coach for all the wonderfull things you brought to Minnesota hockey, I was not a hockey fan until I saw the 1979 U of M squad you coached win the title and your work with the 1980 USA gold medal team hooked me for life. GOD BLESS YOU and your loved ones P.S. THANK YOU the miracle on ice was YOU!!
Herbi...
You were the greatest Hockey Coach and a great teacher of life. Your spark in life lit the world on fire!
Thank you for all the unforgettable memories!
Jimmy B.
I moved to Minnesota in 1980 after Herb Brooks and his college kids performed the Miracle on Ice. I purchased season tickets for the Gophers and my first game in Old Mariucci Arena was an experience I won't forget. The excitement of hockey continues at all levels and it is because of Herb Brooks and his dedication to the game. He left too early. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
You were a inspiration to hockey players all around. You will be missed dearly.
Thanks for all the memories you gave to the State of Hockey. You will be missed dearly.
Thanks for the memories Herb.
God bless...my thoughts and prayers go out to the Brooks' family and friends
We will never, ever forget what Herb Brooks did for U.S. hockey and for the nation at the 1980 Winter Olympics. May he rest in peace.
Thank You for bringing pride to American Hockey and Golden Gophers everywhere.
Herbie,
Minnesota and the nation misses you.
Your love for the game of hockey cannot be matched.
God Bless!
My condolences to the Brooks family-you have suffered a terrible loss of a wonderful, loving, caring man.
To the hockey family- we have suffered the loss of a true innovater- Herb was ahead of the times. But he stood for more then just great hockey- he stood for dreams. Thru him many young kids learned it was ok to dream, that you could get there thru hardwork and determination.
God speed Herb..... Enjoy yourself in hockey heaven!
Herb Brooks makes me proud to be an American and Minnesotan. He did so much for hockey in Minnesota and the US. Peace be with his family and friends. I thank him for what he means to the sport of hockey. Rest in Peace.
Thank you for everything you have acomplished in your life, and for what you have given to all of us. You were a key part of the Penguins organization and may you look over all of us until our time is called upon.
I am a Minnesota native and now live in Florida. I was sad to hear of the death of Herb Brooks. I watched Herbie and the Gophers win their three championships! He was a great coach of the Minnesota Gophers! And then there was the 1980 Olympics! What a great win for the team, Herbie and the USA! Thanks Herbie for loving the sport of hockey! You will be missed by your family, friends, the teams you coached and all the rest of us hockey lovers! I have 2 grandsons living in Duluth who play hockey and I'm sure you have been an inspiration to them as well.
My sympathy to the Brooks family and friends. God bless!
Mr Brooks I want to thank you for the memories you have given me over the years. I got to watch you play in Olympics, and watch you coach in the Olympics. I watched you coach the Golden Gophers to national titles, and I even got to see you when you brought the Olympic team to Tulsa to play our hockey team. Thank you so much! God Bless
My heart goes out to the Brooks family, you have lost a wonderful man.
My heart goes out to the hockey community also, as we have truly lost a genius- Herb was way above the rest, totally ahead of his time. He was a mastermind and he taught us all it was ok to dream, and to reach for the stars- you could get there thru hardwork and determination!
God speed Herbie!
R.I.P. Herb Brooks. We lost you way too early. This Golden Gopher alum thanks you for three national titles and the utterly unforgettable Miracle on Ice. Thanks also for a lot of intelligent commentary on hockey, the best sport in the world.
To the Brooks family, my sincere condolences to you.
To my fellow Minnesotans and USA hockey fans, my condolences- we have truly lost a legend, a hockey god and a wonderful, kind hearted man. It is because of Herb Brooks so many of us learned to believe in dreams, learned to realize we were right where we belonged and learned to run for the gold! He will be terribly missed by the hockey world and by all who's lives he touched on the personal side.
My deepest sympathies to the Brooks family.Herb will be missed by hockey players,coaches and fans past, present and future.
You will always be a legend to many. Thanks for being a friend to all.
With sadness for the family and friends he leaves behind and gratefulness for the inspiring way he led his life. Heaven is blessed with another of our heroes!
Thanks Herb! You enriched my childhood with Gopher excellence and you gave me my first taste of national pride at the 1980 olympics.
Goodbye Herb. Another of the greatest minds are lost too early. I hope you and Badger Bob share some great stories...
I was a junior in high school working part-time at K-Mart on the evening that the US Olympic hockey team defeated the Soviets. I worked in sporting goods, but the TV's were sold right next to the department. I, and about 30 or 40 other customers, were crowded around the three TV's that had the game on. Although I was on the clock, I could not stop watching the game. As a hockey player and a big fan of the sport, I was absolutely thrilled with the outcome. All of us cheered so loud at the end of the game, the store manager had to disperse us to clear the aisle. Thank you Herb, for putting together such a wonderful team for us to cheer on. I will always remember . . .
I know very little about the game of hockey or how it is played, but I remember where I was and how I felt the day the American Hockey team defeated the Russians. I was a kid in junior high, who along with a bunch of friends were waiting in the parking lot of our school for another group of friends to return from a basketball game. My dad showed up to pick us up and he turned the radio up in the car, and about 10 kids piled inside to listen to the Hockey game. When the last American goal was scored we all started screaming and shouting USA! Mr. Brooks made a bunch of 8th graders believe that America was a great place. My prayers go out to his wife and family. May God Bless you.
I want to send my thoughts and condolences to Herb's family and friends. He pioneered USA hockey and was a great coach, motivator and innovator. He will be very missed.
I will forever hold in my heart the
memories of Golden Gopher hockey
games at the old Mariucci Arena and the Olympics gold medal victory
at Lake Placid in 1980. Herb Brooks
was a class act, both on and off the ice. His dedication and devotion to the sport of hockey made us all so proud to call him a
fellow Minnesotan. My thoughts and
prayers go out to Herb's family and to all of his friends during
their time of grief.
will miss you herb,
sandra packard
Two memories I will never forget about Herb Brooks; I was 6 years old the night our US squad beat the Russians. My parents put me to bed and woke me up in the middle of the 2nd period to watch history unfold. Also, my grandpa knew you and use to tell us stories about hockey and in every sentence he would state what a gentleman you were. Thank you for all the memories, you brought a lot of pride and joy to our family. You will be missed!
Being born and raised playing hockey in Minnesota, Herb Brooks was hockey. He is an idol that every hockey player looks up to for guidance and strength whether he knew it or not. His presence will be greatly missed in hockey and Minnesota most of all.
Herb Brooks and the 1980 Olympic Hockey team stirred an interest in hockey for most teenage boys including myself. I fell in love with the sport, but more importantly, fell in love with the idea that discipline and drive could get you to your goals. Thanks for the memories and the lesson that you and your team taught to my generation. May God Bless your family.
Patti love, there will never be but one Herbie. God love and bless you.
Mother Dearest
Thanks for being a major part of one of the best hockey games ever played.
Herb was everyday type guy.I was a U.M.police officer for 30 years and my thoughts go to working security at the home bench,the conversations by the locker room and the parking lot where he parked for the game.I kind of forgot how ordnary he was.Miss you coach,you were MN hockey.
I THANK HERBIE FOR THE HELP HE GAVE TO ME AS A NEW COACH AT ST. THOMAS ACADEMY,SIBLEY AND THEN MACALESTER.HE ALWAYS TOOK TIME TO VISIT WITH ME AND I WILL ALWAYS SAY THAT IN THE GAME OF LIFE HE WAS NOT JUST A PLAYER, BUT A COACH- SINCERELY, LEO COLLINS
I wasn't yet a hockey fan when the USA Olympic hockey team won the gold in 1980. I became a hockey fan when Mario Lemieux came to Pittsburgh. By the time Herb Brooks became part of the Pittsburgh Penquins organization and its coach for the 1999-2000 season, I understood the accomplishment of the Olympic team and felt privileged to have the pleasure of viewing his genius. I loved his easy going manner and fiery spirit. Heaven has just received a gift - a hockey angel.
My deepest sympathies to his family. Herb Brooks will be missed by many.
Herb, you have always been the consumate professional and I have admired your work ethic since I have been a fan of the greatest game on earth. May you now rest in peace. Vaya con dios.
I remember an incident with Herb and Low Nanne en route to Mpls. from Chicago...
they were returning from the US Nationals with patches on their blazers; I was returning from college with hockey stick in hand wearing a trenchcoat.
However, before boarding, kids ran to Lou and Herb seeking their autographs...seeing me they also asked for mine.
Years later with both having done so well, I always wondered what the kids who got my autograph were wondering...i.e., whatever happened to him?
We'll miss you Herb; you were one of a handful of true heroes!
Herb - in 1980 you taught a 10 year old what it meant to win despite the odds, to believe in oneself and one's teammates, and that lesson has never been forgotten. I went on to play and coach, and I never forgot that example. You are loved always, and you will be missed. Bless you and your family.
Herbie was a friend all through Farnsworth, Cleveland, and Johnson. The Class of '55 will miss his happiness.
What you gave us will live forever, you will be missed but not forgotten.
Your accomplishments in USA hockey in general and in the 1980 Olympics in particular should be properly acknowledged in the following way: (1)Your birthday, August 5th, should become a national holiday. (2)Your face should be sculpted into Mt Rushmore. (3)You should be buried in Arlington National Cemetary with an eternal olympic flame over your gravesite. You were not just a legend. You were a God. To this day, I can still recite all 20 names of that great team. Let the world never forget you. Let the world never forget Jim Craig, Steve Janaszak, Mike Eruzione, Mark Johnson, Buzz Schneider, Rob McClanahan, Jack O'Callahan, Dave Christian, Steve Christoff, Bill Baker, Eric Stroebel, Phil Verchota, John Harrington, Mark Wells, Neil Broten, Dave Silk, Mark Pavelich, Ken Morrow, Mike Ramsay and Bob Suter.
Rest in peace Herb Brooks.....
Rest in Peace Herb! No words can explain how your family must feel, but I hope they get comfort in knowing you have touched so many lives with your love and dedication to hockey. God Bless your Family...
My thoughts and prayers to the Brook's family. I will never forget where I was during the 1980 Olympics and when he came to SCSU to start yet another tradition in Minnesota. I met Herb at an event in Mpls and to shake his hand was a real priviledge. Thank you for the memories and you will not be forgotten.
God Bless Herb, his family, and the great things he did not only for hockey in Minnesota, but for hockey in the USA. I'll never forget the Gopher titles, and of course 1980. Rest in peace Herbie.
When a person is from St. Paul Johnson and a resident of the East Side hockey becomes a very prominent sport in one's life. Even if you're a girl. When I was growing up ice skating at local rinks was the "only" winter sport! Of course there was a hockey rink at every playground.
Therefore, hockey was ingrained and remained important - so not knowing who Herb Brooks was and what he was accomplishing in that slick world would have been a crime.
We lost a great man and a great motivater. He will be missed by many.
My deepest sympathies to his family. (He's probably up in heaven right now bringin Rube Gustafson up-to-date on everything that's happened since l99l.)
Herb Brooks was a miracle worker to the sport of hockey. He was a teacher a pilosipher and a friend to all. He will be missed terribly by the hockey world. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Herb Brooks was a great hockey coach and a great man!Minnesota hockey will surely miss him:(
Thanks for Minnesota's first 3 national championships (college or pro) in my lifetime. Thanks for the US's greatest victory ever. Thanks for Div I SCSU hockey. You'll be missed, but not forgotten.
thanks for all the great memories, Herb...I was too young to see the Miracle on Ice live, but I've still watched it hundreds of times. You were probably the greatest Gopher coach of all time. Thanks for it all.
After leaving Minnesota for my Army career, I was leaving the greatness of Minnesota Hockey behind, but it did not dies, I had European hockey and great cable, so I was able to watch all the hockey I could. But I was 12 when a gaggle of Minnesotans and other Americans showed the world why that Minnesota was "HOCKEY COUNTRY" and that Herb Brooks was the captain of that mighty shipped called "THE MIRACLE ON ICE". After hearing of his death, I was saddened that Minnesota, the hockey world and all the people he had affected during his lifetime; lost one of the greatest men ever to set foot on the ice.
God Bless to the Brooks family and their friends.
From The Erickson family located in St. Paul and from my wife Kelly and I, who have relocated to Alexandria Va, we send our heartfelt condolences.
J & KELLY ERICKSON
He brought a lot of excitement to the game. May he rest in peace. From a former East Sider and Johnson grad.
The passing of Herb Brooks is more than a loss to the hockey community--it's a loss to every Minnesotan and American.
My condolences to the Brooks family on their loss and thank you to Herb Brooks for starting the "hockey fire" in my life during the 1980 Olympics, which will continue to burn.
I remember Herb from my Graduate school days at UofM. He was a great intercollegiate, international and professional hockey coach who's skill and passion will be missed by all. Condolences to Herb's family at his untimely passing.
Minnesota, the "State of Hockey" and the rest of the World lost a superb legend on 8-11-03.
With my deepest sympathy to the Brooks family & friends.
Growing up with two older brothers, one could only sit back and watch how they would eventually get their sister to enjoy and understand the great game of hockey!
Being able to share the joys and excitement of the 1980 Miracle on Ice Team taking GOLD will live forever in my heart. One moment now I wish I could turn back in time was having the opportunity to put Neal Broten's medal around my neck. What was I thinking???? Little did I know...
As hockey continues to run deep in my family, one day Herb we'll all join you for a skate in Heaven. God Bless You Always-
I hope the Brooks family imagines Herb instructing young hockey players on the vast frozen ponds of Heaven, because I'm convinced he's doing precisely that. I number myself among the many in America who make this claim: today as for the past 20-plus years I play hockey because of Herb Brooks. God bless Herb and his family.
May God bless you, Herb and your family too. You will be missed by many!!
Herb Brooks was an inspiration for a generation of young hockey players. I just want to say thanks Herb, and what we wouldn't give to hear one more "Brooksism"!
I feel like I've been kicked in the gut on this one. This is like losing a family member after literally growing up watching his teams win championships and, over the years, listening to him talk about the importance of hard work, teamwork, integrity, and maintaining dreams. I had the pleasure of attending two of the three NCAA championship games the Gophers won. I was also lucky enough to attend the team party after one of them. Herbie obviously did not attend these, but I did get to rub elbows with many of the players of that team and I'll never forget how these guys warmly welcomed the fans into their party and thanked us for being there and supporting them. Years later, I understood how they were a true extension of Herbie with the same down to earth attitude and "just one of the guys" approach. They were quite literally just a bunch of great guys to talk to and have a beer with, just like Herbie.
His philosophy was not just about hockey, he always expanded it to life and in terms few people do any more. His selfless devotion to the game of hockey, and the kids that played it, was felt around the world. He was one of the greatest characters and inspirational leaders this country has ever produced and he will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathy is extended to his friends and family.
God bless ya Herbie and thanks for all the years of fun, enjoyment and memories you and your teams produced.
Herb Brooks gave us all a special gift here in America, and especially us folks in Minnesota. He gave us hope in otherwise bleak times. He is a distinctive hero and team player who fostered everybody's dream for American Hockey. Rest in peace.
Thanks for what you did for hockey here in Minnesota. You will not be forgotten. You will be an integral part of this state's rich hockey tradition for many many years to come. We'll miss you Herb.
He will never be forgotten. My condolences to the Brooks Family. God be with the Brooks Family in this time of sorrow.
I was in first grade during the 1980 miracle, playing my first years of organized hockey. What an inspiration it was to me and all Americans. To hear his friends speak of him shows how much those who new him respected him.
God Bless Mr. Brooks and his family.
My condolences to the entire Brooks family and to the extended family of hockey fans throughout the nation. We've truly lost a great man.
My sympathies and thoughts are with the Brooks family as we all mourn the passing of a great hockey legend. Thanks for the Memories.
To the family of Coach Brooks, I hope you never forget that all of us will always think of him in the highest regard. May he rest in peace.
I remeber watching "Miracle on Ice" at my grandmothers and thinking how cool it was to win a big game. I was only 6 then but it was an exciting time. I started to watch hockey more afterwards and generated more interest for me. I love hockey and there are two reasons why - Herb Brooks and the 1980 USA Gold Medal team and Mario.
God Bless Herb Brooks, you will be missed.
Herb Brooks was a man I have looked up to for a long time. I had the pleasure of meeting Coach Brooks as a 12 year old when he was coaching the Rangers. It was actually during their playoff series vs the Islanders, and he made me feel as if meeting me was the most important thing he had to do. Coach Brooks will be sorely missed not only by those of us in the hockey world, but by the good people of this country. He stood for what was good in America...honesty, hard work, commtiment, and a never ending drive to make those around us better. My sincerest condolences to the entire Brooks family.
He was by far the best coach in the history of sports. No one knew the game, or could motivate the players like Herb. Thanks for the memories.
Herb Brooks lived and breathed hockey. It is a great loss for the whole hockey community. Miracles don't come along often and Brooks proved that they do happen. His contributions to the sport will never be forgotten.
And now heaven will have a new player on their bench. A player leading and coaching them to new miracles. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Iam saddened and stunned by the loss of Herb Brooks. Meeting Herb years ago was an unreal situation for me, standing in front of him, and realizing this was the man responsible for the "Miracle on Ice". The list goes on and on. His accomplishments in the hockey world will never be forgotten. Herbie is a true Hockey Hero, and a guy that will be sorely missed. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Thank you Herbie...
You helped to influence a skinny, weak-ankled kid to believe that an underdog could play from the heart and be a winner. On a frozen rink I imagined scoring that winning goal over the Russians over and over again. And when I heard of your passing a part of me died as well.
After dinner I took my son outside, and together we broke in the new hockey goal my wife and I bought him for his 5th birthday. I passed him the puck and he tried mightily to one-time them into the net. Each time raising his stick into the air as the puck hit the twine.
I wondered to myself; is he imagining some game winning goal of his own? Is his 5-year-old mind churning away at his own Miracle on Ice?
Even though we never met I think you and your family should know that in a small way your hockey legacy lives on. From a generation who saw the Miracle, to a generation who may create their own.
Rest in Peace Coach.
I was deeply saddened to hear about what happened Monday afternoon. I was only 3 years old in 1980 when the US won Olympic gold but I do remember where I was and what I was doing when we beat the Soviet Union. I will never forget that day and my thoughts and prayers are with the Brooks family.
Brooks Family:
I offer my condolences to your wonderful family on the loss of Herb. Herb was not only a great hockey coach and role model; he was a wonderful person who put others first. He never sought the limelight but instead allowed his players to enjoy the moment. As a fellow Gopher I am not only proud of what he accomplished as a player and coach but also what he meant to America over the years and to people all over the world who followed his tremendous career. Respectfully, George Vedder, Mora, MN
We are very sad to hear that the world (and the Penguins) have lost a truly unique and wonderful person. He had a aura about him that is rare. He was a truly great person and American.
Thank you very much for your contributions to TEAM USA hockey and the Pittsburgh Penguins. You were the best hockey coach I have ever seen. The way you motivated and stuck up for your players is something every coach can learn from. MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU HERB.R.I.P.
'Our Deepest Sympathy' to his family, relatives, & friends.
In 1980 when the announcer said the famous words, "Do you believe in Miracles", I felt chills go down my spine.
The other day when I heard the news of his death.... I had the very same thing happen.
The excitement Herb gave to Hockey in Minnesota and around, will be remembered forever!
Our Thoughts,
Our Prayers,
God Bless you Herbie and everything you did for Minnesota hockey
Hockey will never be the same w/o you Herb. Here's to you continuing to coach on the big ice sheet in the sky!
Herb Brooks made history when he led the USA hockey team to "Miracle On Ice" gold medal in 1980. I am one of many who became a loyal fan of hockey after that win. Thanks Herb!
I spent the last 10 minutes of the game against the Soviets sitting in my car in the Byerly's parking lot on France Avenue near Southdale (Edina). The game ended and the parking lot went wild! Entering the store, an announcement was made on the PA system. Clerks and customers exchanged high-fives, cheered and danced. It was a moment, particularly for Minnesotans, of unsurpassed sports excitement and accomplishment. Thank you, Coach Brooks!
To the Brooks Family - We extend our thoughts and prayers to each of you during this difficult time. Kevin, Kim & Kaitlin of Mplwd MN
Hockey has lost it's favorite son.
Memories are lasting impressions of the good things in life. Herb you created alot of memories Thank You and God Bless your family!
The world of hockey is crying today! My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. Brook's family and friends.
RIP
Thanks for everything Herb, God Bless You.
We will truely miss Herb, he was a true ambassador to the sport. Pittsburgh will never forget.
THANK YOU HERB! GOD BLESS!
I live in the UK where hockey is not so popular. But to me and those who do love hockey here, Herb Brooks is a legend. Growing up in the Cold War and learning about the US team beating the Soviet's best against all odds is the stuff of fantasy brought to life. Not many people in the world can do that, but Herb Brooks did. A credit to his sport and a credit to his country. May he rest now in peace.
I would just like to send my thoughts to the family of Mr. Brooks and say that he wasn't only a keystone for the game of hockey in the States, but he made believers of everyone. He will be missed not only as a coach, but as a kind human being.
Gods speed Herb. You will be missed.
I VIVIDLY REMEMBER watching all the Olmpic hockey team's exhibition matches in the fall of 1979 at the old Met Center. The place was half full most of the time. This was before cable and the internet. It was even hard to get anybody to go to the games with me. But I loved it. I rember thinking "this is the way hockey should be played!". You could see early that our own Herbie Brooks had created something really special.
When they beat the Russians and won Gold, I was so glad I had gone to see them play in person.
Herb, thanks for being such an inspiration and making us all believe that dreams really can come true.
You proved it.
Coach Brooks, Thanks for all the memories. We know you are in HOCKEY HEAVEN! Herb, the Richey family, sends their warmest regards to your family. Mark, Josh, and Danny Richey
many thanks coach-god bless!
Heaven's hockey team just gained a great coach. What you have done for USA hockey, UM, and especially Pittsburgh, I am eternally grateful!
The impact of Coach Brooks' death extends beyond Minnesota, and is felt throughout the USA. Thanks for Team USA, Husky Hockey and a common-man spirit. God Speed Herb Brooks.
Herbie - so many great memories. Road trips following the Gophers to Duluth, Grand Forks, Madison and Houghton. Being in the stands for 3 national championships. Hoisting (and cleaning!) the McNaughton Cup. One of your first public speaking appearances as Gopher hockey coach. But most of all for your kindness to all of us involved with the ticket office, the game crew and Gopher hockey. You always had time for everyone. You were a good man, a friend and we miss you and mourn your death.
Our condolences to Patti, the family and all your friends.
I was a thirteen year old hockey player in 1980...to see what Coach Brooks did with those players...made me wish that he could be my coach...as I grew older, I wanted to mold myself to be able to get that kind of effort from my players, in whatever I was coaching....Your presence in the State of Hockey will be sorely missed...God Bless you Coach Brooks!
Herb, may you rest in peace. The entire hockey world as well as Penguin fans like myself are shocked by this. Hockey and the Pens have lost a great man in Herb Brooks just like ten years ago when Badger Bob Johnson passed on.
The Pens will dedicate this season in your honour as will hockey in Minnesota. God Bless!!!
Thank you for being an inspiration..
I was stunned and saddened to hear about Herb Brook's death. I remember very few events in my life as vividly as I remember where I was watching the "Miracle on Ice." He was a great coach and we will miss him. Peace be with his family and friends.
The greatest coach that ever lived representing minnesota hockey and the USA in the olympics. Herb Brooks was amazing we will always remember Herb Brooks
A great hockey man. Rest in peace, Herb.
Herb,
You are the reason thousands of young kids, like myself, began playing the sport of ice hockey immediately following the '80 Olympics. If it wasn't for your dedication, your insight, and tutelage to hockey...U.S.A hockey wouldn't be were it is today.
We'll miss you.
You have to love this guy. Sad day for hockey, and the world. His memories will live on in our thoughts, minds, and hearts.
This is the opposite of Badger Bob's famous quotation...
"It's a sad day for hockey."
I've been saying that men of honor are a dying breed... but in this case, it's literal.
God bless you, Coach. You'll be missed.
WOW! Herb Brooks and Bob Hope...
TOGETHER!! Talk about American inspirations!
When I interviewed Herb Brooks for a local N Minn radio show right after 1980 I asked him about the game with the Soviets. His comments went something like this. "The Russians have a very infexible, rigid approach, they have their plan and system and do not adjust to change easily. For example, when we changed our forechecking system and it caused them problems they just stuck with what they were doing and were unable to adjust on the fly. Their approach was too ridgid to deal with changing conditions. If the plan didn't work, they were stuck. The other thing is that their players played without emotion, and seemed like robots, whereas the North American player will play with passion and will bite the bullet to win. Our players bring guts, pride, passion and feeling to the game. The Russians did not have this." Consider how perceptive these observations are, especially in light of history.
As a PROUD American I can only say that the "Miracle on ice" was not only JUST the beginning but THE beginning of bringing back pride in BEING an American. Thank you to all the players but thank you most Herb for making them believe they could do it.
It is a horrible shame that we have endured Herb's passing this season when things were going to be so good with the Penguins.
RIP Herbie, and the hockey world will never have as bright a star as you, nor will it ever fully recover. You've done amazing things, and for that, we all thank you.
Coach,
You were an inspiration to all us young people back in 1980 when you took a bunch of College Kids and said we can do it the right way and win the whole thing by playing a simple game smartly and winning it all. You did it with the Gophers and with The Olympic Team. God Bless You Herbie for making us believe that we can always have dreams no matter how good or bad things are.
US hockey has lost its legend. We will miss you herb. You will be in all our hearts. One of your more famous phrases, "your meant to be here. This moment is yours." applies to all of us. Let us live for the moment, as herb brooks did. God bless, and rest in peace.
Herbie, you will be missed. Long before the "Miracle on Ice", you inspired countless thousands of pond rockets, house players, travel players, and high schoolers, to aspire to be among the elite few to wear the big "M" on their chest and compete for Minnesota pride.
I didn't get there, yet I did in a way. Guys I played with and against carried our torch with you into the rink every day. You simply got the best out of everyone, and by doing so, you made us all better as well, sometimes as hockey players, sometimes as men.
The "Miracle on Ice" should not have been such a surprise to the world, and even less a surprise to the hockey world. A Minnesota base, a Minnesota coach, a Minnesota backbone. What less could have happened?
We'll miss you Coach Brooks, and Herb Brooks as well. And not just for that one day, but for a lifetime of commitment to the game and to Minnesota hockey! Hockey and all who play have and will continue to benefit from all you gave to us.
Every time one of us attends a hockey game in the United States, whether it be Pro, Minors, or College, we need to stop to say a prayer for Herb and his family. We probably wouldn't be having such a great time with this fantastic sport here in the USA if not for 1980 and Herb Brooks.
Thanks Herb, also for helping scout with my team, the Penguins. No one did a better job than you.
USA! USA! USA!
God Bless you Herb Brooks.
God must be forming a hockey team. He needs a coach. I hope Herb chooses me to play on his side. Thank you Lord for giving us a miracle through Herb. (P.S. Please send more people with his character.)
Thanks coach, and not just for the Olympic moment, but also the UMN, the SCSU, the NHL moments, but most of all the hockey clinics that my brothers and I attended.
See in the next one.
Mr. USA Hockey !!
Herb Brooks will always have a special place in sports history and especially in the State of Minnesota. I was born and raised in Minnesota and have been a Gopher hockey fan for as many years as I can remember. My first venture as a hockey fan came during my highschool days at Mpls. South High School back in '53-55. Our guys at South played some of the best hockey in the State at that time.
Herb Brooks is a sports hero !!
Thank you for all you did for hockey and Minnesota. "May God Bless you and keep you Herb".
The hockey world lost one of it's greatest ever, We'll miss you Herb
I never met Herb Brooks, and I never played organized hockey. But I am a hockey fan, and Herb Brooks was a big reason my university (SCSU) has a division one hockey program. My friends and I always enjoyed those Friday and Saturday night at the NHC, and I just wanted to thank Mr. Brooks for all his hard work. And pass my prayers along to his family. He touched us all, even those of us he never met. Thank you Herb.
Thanks for turning me on to the sport of hockey. The memories of the 1980 Olympics will live with me forever and also the time you spent here in Pittsburgh coaching the Penguins
To Coach Brooks thanks for your dedication to hockey.
John Bala
Oceanside, California
Like Bob Hope - THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES- Our son Mark worked the Gopher bench for Herb when he was a kid. Thanks Herb - you were a great influence. Betty & Jim Wilbur
Thank you, Herb Brooks, for the tremendous pride I feel as a Minnesotan every time the puck is dropped. You may be gone from our sight, but you will be in our hearts forever.
Thank you Herb.....we will always remember you...Gold and Maroon will forever glisten because of your life....may God take you into his loving embrace....
A friend/classmate/sorority sister/fellow Gopher hockey fiend e-mailed me the shocking news of the loss of this great man. He guided the Golden Gophers and the Miracle on Ice teams to many exciting moments which we will never forget. God Bless you and your family, Herbie. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bright lights, the boys of 1980, pulled from their outdoor frozen lakes in the north woods and the rinks of the inner city. But no one was brighter
then their handsome, intense coach to whom they would give everything they had to defeat their opponent.
Tonight the light has been dimmed, but the memory burns brightly for those who had the joy of sharing the
victory.
Those were exhilerating, heady days of hockey. Thanks for being a class act Herb. You left us too soon and with a big hole in our collective hearts.
I wasn't alive for the Miracle on Ice Game, but I've known about Herb Brooks my entire life. He was someone I had always admired and hoped to meet. He is responsible for making hockey in the United States what it is today; without Coach Brooks, the US wouldn't be as well-represented in the NHL. He will be missed.
I refereed some of his games when he was a player and a coach. Thinking of Herb and the memories I have of him brings a smile to my face.
You did good Herb.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Patti and her family. Thank you Mr. Brooks for your contributions to both USA and Minnesota hockey. God Bless.
Growing up and playing Hockey for 20 years in Minnesota, attending Herbies Hockey camps and watching the "Miracle" are memories I will always cherish, I missed him at SCSU by a few years but I know he added instant legitamacy to their division 1 effort. A Class Man in The Class Sport.
Godspeed Herb Brooks
As a former hockey player who relished the excitement of the 1980 Olympic Gold journey, I wish to thank Herb for his dedication to the sport. May God Bless his family and may they feel comfort and pride knowing how many lives he touched through his hockey passion.
May God bless the Brooks Family. Thanks Herb for all the memories, enjoyment and the thrills of a lifetime. If there is hockey in heaven Herb will be there coaching, supporting and doing what needs to be done.
Thanks, coach for a life well lived.
It's too bad that there aren't more like you.
It was a huge shock to hear the news of Herb Brooks' accident and his passing. My condolences to the Brooks' family and friends.
Herb Brooks was a true American hero. He not only inspired young hockey players and those that followed hockey in Minnesota, but he helped us all re-discover the love we have for this this country at a time when we needed a reminder! I still get goose bumps when I see the replay of the final seconds of the USA v. Russia game. Thanks Coach Brooks, you will be missed!
Thank you Herb for bringing such pride to so many faces, hockey fans and just plain Americans alike. You were truly an inspiration to anyone growing up in the hockey community. We'll miss you!
WE will miss you coach God Bless
As a sportswriter who covered USHL hockey, I can't begin to count the times Herb Brooks' name came up, always in regards to excellence.
His passing is a shock, but the legacy and gifts he left the hockey world are immeasurable.
Bless him.
"Minnesota, still for thee
Thy sons are strong and true..."
In memory of Herb Brooks
I was just a young fan, growing up in the "cities," worshiping coaches like he, Bud and yes even Bill Mussleman during Herbie's Golden Gopher era. What he did there was legendary enough, but of course he wasn't finished.
He and those coaches [and players] taught a young boy so much about pride and striving to be your best. They were easy to look up to whether they won or lost. I live in Georgia now and train dogs for my living trying in my small way to do my best with them. Herbie showed a boy everything a teacher should be: disciplined, intellegent, wise, innovating, never settling for what wasn't working-instead finding new ways to create success. Excellence measured by ones willingness to give everything to the goal, leading by example. Challenging each individual to their own top level possible. A sharp sense of dry humor. Anger when needed justified by fairness. He could motivate like very few others-very few. A decent man who lived all his life as a giant among us yet remained grounded,always a Minnesotan at heart.
He may never again have achieved anything like he did then. Instead, he died much too young-deserving to receive for many, many years more our thanks, gratitude and memory of a life lived in rare example of what can happen when, "we believe."
Gopher hockey of the 70's under Herb's coaching was unbelievable! I never had the talent to play for him but he still "coached" me on what it means to have passion for the game and to believe in honest effort. It was great hockey I've sorely missed. Thank you coach.
God Bless You Herb. You made us so proud to be Americans and Minnesotans, and you taught us much more than how to be a winner in hockey. You will be remembered.
We may have not known Herb Brooks personally, but you didn't have to-to understand how genuine of a teacher he was.
God bless the Brooks family and the spirit of USA hockey. "Class Act"
With all due respect to the Disney Corporation, there has only ever been one Minnesota Miracle Man: Herb Brooks.
You're already missed, Herbie, rest in peace.
shot, goal, score........thanks for the memories!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Goodbye Mr. Brooks. Thank you.
Herb,
I have a good friend that went to high school with you you are a good hockey coach We love you & you will be missed very much
I will remember Herb Brooks as a great coach, a great motivator, and an inspiration. The miracle on ice is one of my favorite memories in sports and as an American. He allowed his players to enjoy their moment...lesser men could not have done that. Many condolences to his family and to his many friends.
My deepest condolences to the Brooks family. Having grown up in south Florida I had no idea what hockey was, I was a senior in high school and I remember watching the Olympics and not understanding a thing that was happening on the ice, but I do remember it was one of the most exciting times in my young life at the time and I knew I was witnessing one of the greatest moments in sports history. I have since gone on to become a diehard hockey fan. Thanks for the miracle Herb !!!! You will be missed.
A very special condolence from a very old friend. My heart and prayers go out to the family. Especially his daughter Kelly my Sister Christian Friend. Sar
Herb, I will always remember you for the memories not only at Lake Placid, but the Soccer/Hockey Camp in Brainerd, MN. Happy Hockey Heaven! You will be missed!
The world has lost one of the best ever born! There will never be another, but we can all try to be more a little more like him.
Herb Brooks was a great man, a great American and a legend.
The only time I have ever seen Herb
Brooks was in our Good Shepherd
Chapel at Convent of the Good
Shephed in Shoreview, Minnesota.
I loved to see his family with him
and was always impressed by his
dignified manner.
My heart goes out to you Patti,
your children and grandchildren
and to his side of the family who
I do not know.
Herb Brooks was a miracle, a unique
individual created by God who was
in His mind from all eternity and
will live with Him for all eternity
for "When God gives life it is
forever." Pope John Paul II
Herbie, you and the 1980 team gave us a great memory that will live forever. Thank you and God bless.
Thanks, Herb, for looking the other way when I would come down to the bench to take pictures of the guys on the Gopher and Olympic Teams. I used to listen to the players who lived in my dorm at the U complain about having to do "Herbies," but anyone who's ever done them, and lived, knows how they build endurance and character. Those qualities were important to the team's success, and the success of its individuals.
My sincere condolences to those who admire and love Herb. Grief is the price we pay for love.
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR HEARTBROKEN FAMILY. IN OCT.1979 MY LIFE CHANGED FOREVER BECAUSE OF A ACCIDENT. MY PROGNOSIS WAS NOT GOOD BUT I WAS ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE HOSPITAL FOR HOME VISITS. MY DOCTORS HAD GIVEN UP ANY HOPE OF RECOVERY BUT MY FAMILY BELIEVED AND MY FRIENDS BELIEVED AND WE WERE ALL GATHERED AS WE WATCHED THE OLYMPICS TOGETHER NOT ONLY DID THE HOCKEY TEAM WIN THEY PERFORMED A MIRACLE AND MY RECOVERY GAINED A FEW MORE BELIEVERS. THANK YOU MR BROOKS FOR BELIEVING IN YOUR TEAM WHO INSPIRED ME MIRACLES NOT ONLY HAPPEN IN SPORTS THEY HAPPEN IN REAL LIFE I AM TRULY GRATEFUL
I was a high school student in '73 or '74 and was tasked with writing a paper for a social studies class. The topic I chose was "Why are African Americans poorly represented in hockey." It seems pretty cocky now, but I picked up the phone and called up the U of M athletic office and asked to speak to Herb Brooks. I really did not think he would have the time to take my call, but sure enough, Herb picked up. He talked sincerely with me for a good 10 minutes, never once making me feel like I was intruding on his time. I did not know a lot about hockey back then, but I did know that I was speaking to a real class act.
Growing up in the "Cities", and then moving up to the St. Cloud area, I have had the luxury of watching Coach Brooks at the U, win a gold with many players we got to watch in the state hockey tourney in previous years, and help bring a small program into the big time at SCSU. Mr. Brooks, thank you for all of your efforts toward "THE STATE OF HOCKEY" legacy. You and Maroosh can now tell each other stories for eternity. You will be missed.
My condolences to the Brooks family.
Herb inspired many a young child playing hockey.
A sad sad time for the whole Hockey community
As a kid attending Mr. Brooks' camp every year at Shattuck, I remeber him as a great motivator, coach and person. Godspeed to the coach and may God bless his family!
A Big Herb Brooks statue should be placed in front of the Xcel Center, for all to enjoy and remember the original Mr. Hockey.
My deepest sympathy to the Brooks family. I only wish I could have had the opportunity to play for a person like Coach Brooks. The 1980 Olympic miracle was more than just winning a gold medal for the U.S.; It was, and will always be, a model for future generations on how to believe in something bigger than yourself, no matter the task. Thank you Coach Brooks for your inspiration.
My family's thoughts and prayers go out to Herb Brooks' friends and family. Though I didn't know much about hockey in 1980, (and I still don't), I was SO proud of Coach Brooks and the US Hockey team when they beat Russia, then Finland for the gold medal. God bless Herb Brooks.
In February 1980, I was stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The Soviets decided to station troops next to our Naval Base as a form of intimidation and further lower our already wounded morale.
Walking the fence that divided the free world and Communist Cuba was not enjoyable especially with the heavy Soviet presence.
But after that night, things changed. We beat them at their game, our hockey team showed the Soviet Army what America was all about.
Soon the icy stares thawed, and a general respect of the United States began. By spring, we were trading Levi's and comic books to those troops for Cuban cigars and Russian Vodka.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Herb Brooks for those enjoyable nights at "The Barn" and more so for lifting the spirits of Marines and Sailors around the world during the worst time of the Cold War.
I remember 1980 as if it was yesterday, and still get the chills when I watch the USSR game. Thank You as a fan and a player.
Sincere condolences to the Brooks family. As a native of Minnesota, I was honored to become a friend of a wonderful individual from not only the Eastside but from throughout Minnesota/nation & abroad. From Herbies play at Johnson High, the Gophers, the 1980 miracle, the National hockey league..He was always a winner. Really enjoyed watching our son's, Danny & Kyle play sports together along with Herbie and family. The press has said it all. Our thoughts and prayers to Patti, Kelly, Danny and the entire Brooks family. Our loss is Heavens gain..Rest in peace.
Just wanted to say how sorry i'm at your lost. May god with you and your family.
Kathy
MY MOTHER(MARLENE ANDERSON) WAS GENERAL MANAGER OF THE ST, PAUL CIVIC CENTER AND YOUR 1980 TEAM PRACTICED IN HER BUILDING. SHE WAS SO PROUD OF YOU AND YOUR TEAM!!!! SHE HAS A SIGNED PHOTO OF YOU HANGING IN HER DEN!!! BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND THANKS FOR THE FAMILY TIME YOU MADE US WATCH!!!!! I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES!!!!! PEACE
Herb Brooks meant a lot to American Hockey...and more to Americans!
Ski-u-mah...hats off to Herb Brooks!
Thanks for everything Herb. I'll never forget you and all that you have done for hockey !
God Speed
My thoughts and prayers go out to
all Herbie's family. He will be greatly
missed.
Coach Brooks:
Thank you for putting hockey on the map in the States, especially on the west coast. Thank you for giving us a big boost when we really need it at the time when we don't feel good about the country. You and Team USA brought us pride and confidence. God Bless You Coach Brook!!!
Steven Tran
You made things happen in the world of hockey and everywhere else that you had a hand in. Nobody will replace you in this world and may you ride with wings on the ice in the next. Heartfelt sorrow for your family and friends.
Our thoughts and prayers to Patti and family.
Thanks Herbie for all you have done for Minn hockey ,as well as hockey through out this country.
You will be missed! And thanks for recruiting our son from Edina back in '77.It was a wonderful experience for him to have played for you and be on the '79 NCAA championship Gopher team. Our family owes you much. And thanks for the building of character in all the players you coached ,from peewees to the Pros. You leave us with many great memories. Thanks!!
Heaven's in good company with Roger Nielsen and now Herb Brooks. God must be a hockey fan.
My family lived in the northern suburbs until just recently. I worked at the Amoco station on the corner of 49 and 96 when I went to school at the U in the early 80's. Herb Brooks and his family were frequent customers. He was always polite and respectful, and if you didn't recognize him or his name on the credit card, you would never have known by his demeanor this was the man who had just coached the USA to a gold medal. He will be missed for his accomplishments and ideas, but also for the person he was.
As quick as "the shot heard 'round the world" you've left the arena. Amidst the grief we applaud you who inspired so many people in so many ways. My story is not unique it is just one example of how even the briefest of contact with you made a lifelong impact. Shortly before the 1980 Olypics you were a customer in the store managed by my parents THE CELLAR in North Oaks. You gave me an autographed poster with the motto "AIM HIGH, WHEN YOU SET HIGH GOALS AND WORK HARD TO ACHEIVE THEM EVEN IF YOU DON'T SUCCEED YOU ARE STILL BETTER OFF" While growing up that poster remained on my wall for years but that motto has remained with me ever since and my life has become all the better for it. The little things like that which you did made a lasting impact on many lives. On a grander scale, with the MIRACLE ON ICE, you showed us all who were fortunate enough to witness that anything is possible...You made believers of us all. Thank you
The hockey world has lost a great man. With Coach Brooks passing it will again bring to light what a truely great coach and man he was. As a former Minnesotan, I will always remember the Miracle on Ice, the Gopher Championships of the 70's, and seeing Coach Brooks behind the North Stars bench. God bless you Coach. A true Minnesota Icon.
What Herb Brooks did in 1980, was not only make a group of kids believe in themselves but make the entire nation believe in itself again. It truly was a miracle. USA Hockey as we know it today wouldn't exist if it wasn't for him. He will be sadly missed.
Herb would have scoffed at all this attention. What is the big deal right? After all, it only took him two games to revive a country! Thanks Herb for taking time to sign a 12 year olds print of the Miracle on Ice in 1980, it hangs in my foyer for all to see and remember. For reference,
Hockey is spelled: HERB BROOKS
I've been reading the many stories of Herb Brooks on the internet from so many people who knew him well and they all thought the world of him. My memory of him is from the 1996 Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament banquet. I was a 4th line Hornet who didn't get much ice time, but the whole experience lies in my memory forever. Mr. Brooks was the banquet's main speaker, and I've never forgotten his message, which fits very well with everything I've been reading about him today. He told us to eliminate the word 'if' from our vocabulary. In other words, be sure to live your life so that you never have to look back and say 'only IF I had done this or that' ... to make sure you always do your best at everything you do. Not a revolutionary message of course, but somehow he was able to deliver it with such weight that it left me with a deep feeling of purpose and duty that has never left.
My prayers go to his family and all who loved him and were loved by him.
We are saddened by Herbie's sudden death. He will be remembered for more than just those Miracles on Ice he was the foundation of. To his family and beyond, our sympathies to you.
We were sad to see Herb leave the Gophers. We were sad to see him leave the North Stars. We are sad to see him leave us.
Met Herb at Hockey Camp for youths back in the early 80's just after he shocked the world in beating Russia. For me that was the most exciting moment in my life.
Paul Kuzma Erie, PA
You got us to believe,that to be an American is to be proud. Godspeed, Herb...You're a hero in an age that defies belief in such things.
I still cry, whenever I watch the story of the Olympic team. Thank You for the memories.
As a senior in high school in 1980,I lived with every golden bounce of the puck during that glorious Olympiad. As a Badger hockey fan, and now also as a Boston Terrier fan I have always been blessed with terrific hockey. However,Herbie Brooks epitomized the cream of the crop. He,along with "BADGER BOB" and Harry Cleverly are coaching one great game at that great rink in the sky!
He was immortal in my eyes and became a god when he left the bench allowing his players to receive the spotlight.
I'll never outgrow the child-like fascination of that moment when time stood still. He was humble, a hero and a man of the ages.
And the hockey gods wept.
Herb, I just wanted to say thanks for all the great memories. I am a huge hockey fan and I also play. Even though I wasn't around for the maricle I saw your great coaching in other aspects of the game especially the way you loved high school hockey. May you rest in peace
Herbie, thank you for all you did for the great game of hockey.
My three brothers and I are great hockey fans and were lucky to have the chance to watch the 1980 Olympic team play an exhibition against the Soviet Union a week or so before the Lake Placid Games began.
The USA came out for warm up and flew around the ice in a series of drills that were reminiscent of the Soviet team's pre-game routine. We were impressed. Until the puck dropped for real. The Soviets toyed with the Americans on the way to a 10-3 rout. They were bigger, stronger, faster, more skilled, and certainly older than our guys. But we came away thinking that a bronze medal might be possible if we got lots of good breaks and great goaltending.
On the night Herbie's kids did the impossible, I heard the score on the radio before the game was shown on tape delay. I was so excited I called my brother and shouted into the phone, "Can you believe they did it!" He still has not forgiven me for spoiling his attempt to avoid hearing the final score before watching the broadcast later that evening.
Growing up in North Jersey we rooted, with great frustration, for the NY Rangers. A few years after Lake Placid, as coach of the Rangers, Herbie led the smaller team (called "Smurfs" by cocky Philly fans) to a stunning playoff victory over the hated Flyers. To us Rangers fans it was another Brooks miracle.
He was a unique character. Though I never met him, I will miss him and am saddened by the loss.
God bless his family and friends, and, of course, Herbie.
Herb Brooks gives me one of the only true pleasures that I enjoy in my life. The love of the game of hockey. He made the miracle possible. Thank you Herb....
REST IN PEACE I WILL PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
I was only 6 when Coach Brooks led Team USA to Gold in 1980, but have watched that game vs. the Russians countless times on tape. I couldn't understand its impact back then, but now as an adult, realize that it is still, to this day, the single most important moment in U.S. sports history.
I get goosebumps just thinking about it.
Thanks Coach, for all you did to help make it happen, and for reminding us that there is no such thing as an "impossible dream."
My sincere condolences go out to his family and friends.
I grew up in Minnesota in the late 60's and 70's. I grew up a hockey fan with my father. We both followed University of Minnesota hockey teams that Herb Brooks coached. The last thrill with my father was to see Coach Brooks bring that US Hockey team to that magnificent win over the Russians, and then follow with a gold medal finish victory. Herb Brooks will be missed in the hockey world and remain a legend in coaching. Although, my father is in ill-health now, I will always have the many years of memories of those days talking hockey, and you- Coach Brooks!!!!! Thank you so much. God Bless your family.
I remember that day in February, 1980. I was only 7 years old growing up in southeastern Minnesota. From that moment when the USA "Miracle on Ice" team beat the Russians and then took to the podium after beating Finland in the gold medal game, I was hooked on hockey. I wanted nothing more than to lace up my skates for Herb Brooks. He made Minnesotans proud and put hockey in forefront of the minds of people around the nation.
What I admire the most about Herb Brooks was his dignity. His selflessness after the U.S. beat the Russians made me realize later in life that working hard and never doubting yourself is just as rewarding.
America learned a lesson from Herb Brooks, and that "Miracle" will never be forgotten. And neither will Herbie.
you will be missed, you were truely a great hockey coach and mentor to all that had the fortune of being [chosin] by coach Brooks.there will never be another.. may GOD bless you ..
Saddened by the untimely death of Herb Brooks. Our path crossed when he became the Gophers coach while I was at the U as a student playing in the pep band for the hockey games. He turned around a program that was last and took the National title the year after I left school. My prayers are with his wife and kids. He had a lot of friends and was well respected.
You will be sadly missed. Thanks for all you have done.
God bless you, Herb. You really did prove to everybody that its okay to follow the dream and that miracles can happen. RIP.
I remember seeing Herb and the Minnesota players from the gold medal team at their triumphant return to Williams Arena after the Lake Placid games. What a thrill, we were all so proud of what they had accomplished.
Herbie, take it easy on Badger Bob up in heaven.
I was so sorry to hear about Herb. I remember him not only as a great hockey legend, but someone at my Dad's Payne-Ivy Drug Store. My thoughts are with you.
The world lost another great hockey coach.
I guess you can only keep the greatest coach around for so long, before he is needed somewhere else. Now Herb will be coaching his next and finest class of hockey player, the immortals.
Tonight’s Heaven Hockey Game Coaching match up: John Marriuci vs. Herb Brooks, let the classic games begin.
Thanks for the wonderful memories.
You are and will always be missed!!!
Your achievements with the 1980 USA hockey team at Lake Placid gave hope and encouragement to an entire nation that had serious doubts about itself. The obstacles that you and the team overcame made Americans everywhere realise that hard work and dogged determination CAN turn dreams into reality. The hockey world has lost a great leader, motivator and human being that can never be replaced. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and everyone who is mourning this terrible loss
Herb Brooks was a great leader in a great sport in a great state.
As a Minnesota native, now living elsewhere, I recall with pride the Gopher Hockey successes of the 1970's, while I am saddened at the loss to the Brooks family, to Minnesota, and to the hockey world.
It is truly a sad day. Hockey lost not only a great coach but a great man.
I, as with so many others, can so vividly remember how the 'Miracle' affected myself as a kid growing up in MN. My husband who is a native Oregonian has slowly gotten to be a hockey fan through infectious enthusiasm..and a big part of that can be traced directly to Herb Brooks and all of his contributions to MN and to hockey.. We offer our condolences to his family and hope they are comforted to know how many lives he truly touched.
I was fairly new to Hockey in 1980, being only 9 years old and in my 3rd year of playing, but I will never forget the "Miricle on Ice" that I witnessed in my father's arms that night. You made believers, not only of those college kids, but kids all over the country like myself. Being a native Minnesotan, the name Herb Brooks is a family name of sorts. Every child, active in hockey, dreamed of playing Minnesota Hockey for Herb Brooks one day. Thank you for what you've given to Hockey, and what you've given to millions of fans and kids everywhere...the lesson that hard work and faith can, and will, pay off in the end. My thoughts and prayers are with family and friends. God Bless.
God Bless Herbie Brooks:(
Herb
Thanks for a great Olympic memory. The last ten seconds of that game when the United States beat the Soviet Union will be etched in my mind forever. What a fantastic piece of coaching. Yes, I believe in miracles.
I was shocked to hear about the sudden and tragic loss of Herb Brooks. Though I never grew up around the sport of hockey, living in Minnesota you could not help but recognize his name.
My heart goes out to his family, friends and all who knew him. Though he is gone, he will not soon be forgotten.
DO YOU BELIEVE IN MIRACLES....?? YES... AND IT WAS SPELLED "HERB BROOKS"....PEACE
A SAD DAY FOR ALL OF US, BUT 1979 WILL BE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER....
Our family grew up on Arlington Avenue and the Brooks on Nevada Avenue across Wheelock Parkway on the East Side of St. Paul It was a shock for me to hear of Herbie’s fatal accident. He was a good man, canonized in Minnesota, for sure on the Side, perhaps even nationwide, and for certain in the world of hockey.
I bumped into him in Japan by chance when he was preparing the French hockey team for the Nagano Olympics, and he was the same old friendly Herbie in spite of all that he had accomplished. As they are want to say on the Side: “He never got the big head.”
On the other hand, if you grew up on the Side when we did, you weren't allowed to get the big head. We were allowed and encouraged to succeed and accomplish, but never allowed to hold any success or accomplishment over anyone's head. I don't regret this way of thinking at all, and I've tried to instill it my kid's heads.
Herbie was also straightforward. Apparently, he often expressed his straightforwardness in some pungent aphorism. One I read today came from a former player he coached who said that Herbie told him he was getting worse for every day and that at the moment he was in last month. On the Side we didn't mix words. Another trait I've tried to instill it my kid's heads.
Again, he was a good man, and as I've suggested, the archetypical and emblematic East Sider, a man that we who grew up in that community can be very proud of, not only because he beat the Russians, but for a lot of other reasons.
God be with you in Hockey Heaven, Herbie!
David Wold
Säffle, Sweden
As a U of M alumnus, I want to say thank you to Coach Brooks for all the thrills he gave us as students back in the 70's. My deepest condolences to his family. Heaven has gained a great hockey coach and gentleman.
Like eternal ripples in an endless lake, the inspiration and the miracle will last froever.
Coach Brooks was truly a Pride of the Eastside.
Thanks for everything Herb.
The Haggertys
East Saint Paul, Minnesota
Along with Mayasich and Mariucci, Herb was a member of the holy trinity of Minnesota hockey. While the nation will never forget the emotion that came with the 1980 Olympic win, our state will always remember the work that Brooks did to build Minnesota hockey to the dominance that it enjoys today. From rink rats to collegiate dynasties, the State of Hockey owes its success to our now departed coach. Thanks Herb.
Can't believe that such bad things happen to such good people. Our
thoughts are with you.
All of our prayers with with the Coach and his family
I'm still in shock that we lost such a great teacher. Anyone who has played hockey in Minnesota owes alot to Herbie. May god bless his family and keep him close.
Herb, you were an inspiration to
young rink rats everywhere whose ambition was to play hockey for the Maroon & Gold. Thanks for all the great memories!
Herb,
What you did for USA hockey will never be forgotten. The State of Hockey lost a great guy. We will miss you Herb.
I had the great honor of meeting Coach Brooks a few years back. He had such an impact on the sport of hockey in this country. He will surely be missed. My prayers are with the family and friends of Coach Brooks. Rest in peace.
I was an enormous fan of Herb through his college, Olympic and pro hockey career. Hockey as a whole has lost great legend. He will be sorely missed.
Thank you, Mr. Brooks. Thank you for igniting the dream.
As most Minnesotan's feel, and American's whether you were a hockey fan or not, we were blessed with the presence of Herb Brooks. He brought not only a sense of exciting of the game to us. But he brought back the belief and patriotism for our country at a time it was needed. My prayers go out to the Brooks family , and a special thank you to Herbie.
Herb Brooks is the reason I am a hockey fan. Not only was I enthralled by the 1980 Olympic feats, I was enticed into NHL hockey fandom when he came to the NY Rangers in 1981. And I've been a season subscriber since 1984, largely because of the how his teams made me feel about the game.
Hockey fans everywhere mourn his passing.
As a hockey kid growing up in Minnesota, Herb Brooks' contribution to the sport can never be overlooked or forgotten.
What more can be said about Herb Brooks? Not only did he guide a young, underdog team in 1980 to greatness, but he also provided this country a bright spot in a rather dismal time in our history. As a fan and player, I will always associate the game I love with Herb Brooks.
To his friends and family, you are not alone in your loss.
My deepest condolences.
Mr. Brooks stood for what is hockey.
Not only did Hockey lose a great Hockey Coach, America lost a great American and Minnesota lost a great Minnesotan. He will surely be missed.
The 1980 Olympics was the first time I ever watched Hockey. I became a hockey fan immediately after watching Mr. Brooks and his rag tag team go all the way to the Gold. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
My deepest sympathy to your family that lost a husband, father and grandfather way too soon.
Everyone has their own story of where they were or how they heard about the "Miracle on Ice". It was a very personal memory for all of us, yet it was also shared with the country...at a time when we needed it.
I have a lump in my throat that won't go away.
God Bless the Brooks family, and thank you for sharing him with all of us. He touched a nation.
Herbie,
You had a way of touching every life you came across. I thank God I was able to say hello to you at the recent Hockey Ministries Banquet and thank you for helping my Dad as he fought Cancer. You were a true friend during his toughest battle. Thanks for the legacy you are leaving the Hockey world.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family and loved ones. Thanks for demonstrating what it means to be a winner and how to pay the price to succeed in Hockey and Life!
God Speed Herb Brooks and thank you for the many memories from the Olympic Hockey team to the NHL and of coarse the Minnesota Gophers. We will miss you.
A great contribution. Best moment in sports, period.
Thank you Herb for doing more than winning a hockey game. You showed us all that miracles are possible.
Thanks for the memories you gave us by your excellent coaching! God have mercy on you and your family.
I worked two summers with Coach Brooks at Shattuck/St.Marys 75/76, what a great coach. In 1980, I was living in Duluth, Mn. newly married in our new apartment watching that great olympic game and crying with American emotion at the outcome. You made our nation proud, our state proud, and inspired many young kids. Thanks for memories Herb, your legacy will live on for many generations. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends
Thank you for looking me in the eye when I was eight and telling me "those guys started out just like you."
The state of Hockey has lost a great coach. you will be missed.
my thought go out to his family and friends.
First and foremost, my thoughts and prayers are with the Brooks family today, as they have lost their rock!
-3 National titles with the Gophers in 7 years.
-Orchestrating the greatest Hockey win in the history of the game.
-The Hockey relationships built each year with players of all ages.
Unbelievable!!
Will another coach ever win 3 NCAA titles in 7 years?
I don't think we'll ever see another Hockey coach LIKE him.
Here I am thinking about Herb Brooks today, and, I've never played Hockey in my life. That's how respected Coach Brooks is in Minnesota.
God Bless.
While I'm not a Minnesota native, I can appreciate the loss the hockey world has just experienced. It's always a blessing for any sport, not just hockey, to have such a beloved and respected figure beyond the players. Being down south on the verge of the football season, it's hard to get people to see how big a loss it is besides the natural sadness of human life. As a Southern hockey fan and minority, Mr. Brooks' story is one of great inspiration. What's more inspiring in the face of great sadness is the fact that his life's work will go on and not be in vain. I think with the spread of hockey to other places and its strength in Minn. is a testament to his devotion to USA Hockey! My condolences to the Brooks family. God be with you in your time of need.
In growing up in the Twin Cities, playing and watching hockey, one does not realize the impact that Herb Brooks had on us all until we lost him. Thank you Herb, friends and family.
A former Gopher fan from New Ulm fondly remembers with admiration the joys of championship hockey that this great coach provided for all of us. Sorry you had to leave us so soon.
Hearing the news brought tears to my eyes. What a loss. Because of him we have the greatest memory in sports history. There are no other words to express my sadness.
As a 12 year old who watched the 'Miracle on Ice' in 1980, Mr. Brook's stewardship of the U.S.A. Olympic hockey program to gold in Lake Placid is one of the most cherished moments in hockey (even for Canadians!) Mr. Brook's dedication to hockey was greatly appreciated by all Canadians.
My thoughts go out to Minnesotans, Americans and the Brooks family.
Herb has been an inspiration to all of us. He is the reason I started playing hockey as a child after watching him lead usa in victory. I have never met Herb. But he will always be a hero to me. Thank you Herb for all the great memories you have given us all
My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to the Brooks family at this tragic loss. Growing up in Michigan, hockey was a big part of my life and when the U.S. team pulled off the Miracle on Ice in 1980, I think it was one of the most important moments in my life at the time. To Coach Brooks, heaven just got a great coach and an even greater man. You will be remembered forever. Sincerely, Kenneth Carlson
growing up in pittsburgh there were two reasons i chose to be a hockey player...mario lemieux and the 1980 miracle on ice.
i was and will forever be inspired by your sheer love for the game and hope that some day i can give as much back to hockey as you did...thanks for teaching this american boy to be a dreamer
Herb Brooks- I wached him play at the U; and listen to the 80 Olympics win while living in Switzerland. What an unbelievable feat!
My thoughts and prayers to his family.
God Speed, Herb. You will always be remembered.
When we lived in the Twin Cities, my wife and I lost a child to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). We volunteered for the Chad and Barreiro Celebrity Golf Tourney, which benefits the Minnesota SIDS organization. SIDS parents were stationed at each of the holes, to greet the celebrities and other golfers. I will never forget Herb Brooks, world-famous hockey coach, walking up to us and personally shaking my hand saying, "Hi, I'm Herb," and then proceeding to tell us about a SIDS tragedy in his extended family. That situation speaks to the character of this man - compassionate, humble, and focused on the things important to him. We'll miss you, Herb.
Herb came to Gustavus Adolphus College as a guest speaker this spring and I was privileged to get to talk with this great man who had such a zest for life, people and of course, hockey. He left an impression on all of us kids that were in Christ Chapel to listen to him. He will be missed...
I grew up on the East Side where Herbie wasn't just a hockey legend ... our most hated, grueling hockey drill was named after him. He was a god. I was proud to have grown up in the same neighborhood. Whenever his name came up, I promptly stood up and said, "He's an East Sider, just like me!" Thanks for everything, Herb. And thanks especially for making all of us proud to be from the East Side. Peace.
Dear Family of Mr. Brooks:
Our sincere condolences to the Brooks family. God Bless all of you.
U of MN Alumni; Herb, you cared so much you gave the USA one of its finest moments in sports history. We remember watching and weeping as it all occurred. God Bless Your Family and the youth you gave heart and soul to! You were a GIANT!
My prayers go out to the family. For a 10 year old boy he was the coach of the team that did something that will remain in my heart forever. God bless you Herb
My heart is saddened by this loss -- Minnesota has lost a JEWEL who is irreplacable. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, the many teams he coached, especially the 1980 Olympic Team and all who are feeling this unspeakable loss. Hockey fans everywhere can claim to be part of his family -- Thanks, Coach!
To the Brooks family--you are in my thoughts and prayers. He will be missed by millions!
My condolences to the Brooks Family and freinds.
Herbie will always be remembered as a great coach and person.
Thanks for all the memories that you have given us hockey fans across the nation.
Thanks for all the memories. I'm so glad I had a change to meet you in Kalamazoo one hockey training camp. May God Bless your family.
Your Olympic Hockey win touched my heart like not many other things have -- and I'm not even a hockey fan...but this was beyond the game...it meant the world to a country to have someone like you standing up for us at that time in history. God speed, Herb.
Herbie I thank you for all you have done for this great sport in this great state of hockey I wish you could be here for what is going to happen this coming hockey season and watch the Wild grow into their own. God Speed to the greatest hockey coach of all time.
Our prayers go out to the family of Herb Brooks. He's one of the great Minnesota icons that will always be remembered. Rest in peace Herb.
I remember meeting Mr. Brooks at the Club in Lino Lakes, where I worked part-time while attending the U of MN. He was such a genuinely nice person who took the time to get to know people. This obviously showed in his outstanding ability to teach. USA has lost a legend. My deepest sympathy to the Brooks' family.
God needed a great hockey coach...
What a great man. He became a hero to those with a public voice by first becoming a friend and mentor to a few who could hardly speak at all. He will be missed always - especially in troubled times when we need heroes like him.
The miracle on ice game was the only sporting event to bring me to tears.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Brooks family.
Yoou will be missed my friend but what wonderful memories we ghave of you.
God Bless your family
So, many have said so much of this man. I know his family will miss him and my heart goes out to them. A one of kind man he was. I love hockey and will miss this man who lived the sport to the fullest.
WITH TEARS IN MY EYES I SAY GOODBY TO A OLD FRIEND. WE WILL NEVER FORGET WHAT YOU DID FOR MINNESOTA,OUR NATION AND THE HOCKEY WORLD.OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH PATTI AND THE CHILDREN.
My sincere condolences to the Brooks family.
My condolonces to the Brooks' family, I was saddened to hear the news of Herb's death here in Canada, as I'm sure a lot of people were. He had many great accomplishments both on and off the ice, too many to list here. His idea that "what is on the back of one's jersey doesn't matter as much as what's on the front" is a lesson that a lot of young players should be learning today.....this man definitely put US hockey on the map.
Thanks for teaching me the game the right way, Herbie, and for all former Win Stephens juniors, you'll be missed and loved
I spoke to Herb once on his way to the Bierman Building when I was an undergraduate at the U. Herb and Sid Hartman were walking into the building and I said, "Congratulations Herb on winning the gold medal."
He looked at me and smiled and said, "Thanks alot." That may sound trivial but having met other celebrities, I was struck by his unassuming posture. There will never be another coach like Herb Brooks.
BCJ
A great coach, a great ambassador, a great person.
Herbie,
We are Gopher Hockey season ticket holders and we will miss seeing you at the games! Thanks for all the great memories!! God bless your family & friends during this very difficult time.
There's nothing I could put into words what you meant to this nation, this state, and to me.
You will be missed...
BEST WISHS TO ALL HIS FAMILY.
What this man did for St. Paul, for Minnesota, and for this country truly is immeasurable. The lives he has affected are uncountable. The dreams he has inspired are unfathomable.
This man was a visionary. His contributions to the greatest game in the world will never be forgotten.
Thanks for the memories Herbie.
A truly sad day for the state of Minnesota, and the United States in general. I was 9 at the time of the victory over the USSR, and that moment alone propelled the sport of hockey to play a major role in my life.
Thank You Herb. You will be missed.
Minnesota-Ice Hockey-Herb Brooks
Thank you to a true leader who inspired and gave us dreams. I don't remember how many times we played out the Gold Medal game as kids. I remember staying up to watch all the games of the Olympics. This is a true loss and my condolences go out to all of the family and friends.
COACH BROOKS WAS ONE GREAT PLAYER AND A GREAT COACH HE WILL BE MISSED.
I have seldom, if ever, been able to watch the 'Miracle on Ice' without tears of pride welling up. Thank you for molding those, and other, hockey players.
Yesterday, those tears were twofold.
Herb was Hockey. He gave us the single greatest moment in American sports history. Growing up in Minnesota, he was a household name. He'll be greatly missed.
God truly blessed Herb Brooks, but God blessed us even more by putting him on this earth. I was 12 years old when the US beat the USSR. I will never forget that moment. I didn't personally know Herb Brooks, but he touched my life.
I am friends with Herb's brother-in-law Terry L. & family. Herb's nephew Steven & I literally grow up together. Back in 1980, when we were in 6th grade Herb gave Steven one of his Olympic hockey shirts. Steven was so very proud of his Uncle and an envy to everyone! I was very shocked and very sad to read about his death online last night. I send my prayers and positive thoughts to Patti, Dan and Kelly and to all the other relatives, friends and fans he's touched over the years. Many Blessings, Amy Petrik
My deepest sympahty goes to the Brooks family. What Herb gave to the sport of hockey is immeasurable. I will always have shivers whenever I watch what the 80 olympic team accomplished. Thank you for the memories.
Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to the world of hockey and thanks for all the wonderful memories we have here in the the great state of hockey--we will miss you.....
Rest in peace to you, Herb. Our prayers and sympathies to the family. You will be missed by all.
My deepest sympathies to the Brooks family. Herbie, you will be missed . Thanks for the memories.
May this HOCKEY GOD rest in heaven...
That Sunday morning in 1980 is a great memory for so many people, during a difficult time in our country.
Thank you for your dedication and love for hockey
Herbie -You were truly an inspiration to young and old hockey players alike. Watch for those flying pucks in heaven!!
Herb Brooks and his team made all
Americans very proud, at a time when the nation was in despair.
God bless you, sir.
Always admired Herb's work, not only for the Olympic gold, but with my N.Y. Rangers and the Gophers. He sure helped spread the hockey word into the South, too!!!
I am a Minnesota native and now live in Oregon. My husband and I were sad to hear of the death of Herb Brooks. It was because of Herb Brooks and the Minnesota Gophers that my husband and I became hockey fans! We went to our first hockey game in 1974 and watched Herbie and the Gophers win their three championships! He was a great coach of the Minnesota Gophers! And then there was the 1980 Olympics! What a great win for the team, Herbie and the USA! Thanks Herbie for helping us love the sport of hockey! You will be missed by your family, friends, the teams you coached and all the rest of us hockey lovers!
My sympathy to the Brooks family and friends. God bless!
I teed it up with Herb at Midland a few times and easily found out what a great guy he was. He was outgoing and friendly in a genuine way. I am very sorry and saddened for the Brooks family loss.
I grew up in Oregon, so I didn't grow up loving hockey or knowing who Herb Brooks was -- until 1980. Thanks, Herb, for converting me...
I met Herb when he attended a friend of mine and a former player of his funeral ( Tom Mohr ).
25yrs later he was there, by himself, still paying attention to his players.
I still get chills everytime I hear, "Do you believe in miracles? YES!" I wasn't even born yet when that happened,but it is a big deal to me today. Herb not only turned around USA hockey, but he brought the entire country together. He loved the game of hockey. Herb was Mr. Hockey. We will all miss you Herb!
Thanks for the greatest sports event of the 20th century! I was 11 at the time of that great victory, and I will never forget how excited my mom was when we won!I am originally from MN and remember being very proud to learn that the head coach from the U of M was going to be the head coach of the U.S. Hockey Team.
My condolences go out to the family of Herb Brooks, Minnesota will never be the same with him gone, but we are a little better for having him with us while we could.
Herb, You were, and still are, an inspriation to us all. Heaven now has the best coach there ever was. We will miss you and my heart goes to your family and friends whose lives you touched.
Our condolences to Herb's Family, Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
As a Sailor transplanted from Minnesota from 1976 - 1980... Hockey in San Diego ? This is part of what brought me back to Minnesota. Thanks Herb!
I'd like to offer my deepest sympathies to the Herb Brooks family. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Our condolences to the family and close friends of Herbie. He will be missed for years to come but shall not be forgotten.
I hope to see a memorial in his honor the next time I go to a Wild game at Excel. Thanks for the inspiration and memories, Herbie!
Herb Brooks gladly shook my hand in 2002 at a Gophers-Huskies hockey game in St. Cloud. The crowd didn't know he was there until my friend and I went up to him and asked to shake his hand. He tried to hide from the attention and then shortly after the announcer publicly welcomed him to the arena. He always seemed to shy away from the credit but he appreciated his fans, and no hockey coach ever had more fans.
Coach Brooks,
Your legacy will never be forgotten. Thanks for all you've done for USA hockey. I'll never forget all of the "Herbies" I've had to skate in my lifetime. The hockey world will never be the same w/out you and your inspiration and passion for the game.
God Bless you and your family!
Gaetz
Thank you for elevating college hockey to the level it has reached today. Because of your efforts and achievements, I am today able to enjoy this sport as a Minnesota Gopher and Minnesota Wild fan!
Herb, I'll never forget your appearance with the 1980 gold medalists in the First Bank Minneapolis lobby. Outside of the victory itself, it was one of the most exciting times of my life.
Rest in peace coach!
You are a hero for not just Minnesota, but the Nation as a whole. Your leadership, inspiration and care will never be forgotton. Rest in Peace.
Herb, the mold was broken after your birth. The USA needs and misses your inspiration and motivation. We will forever remember your deeds.
Larry Zolnosky (U of Minnesota, 1962)
When you are talking Minnesota Hockey - you are talking Herb Brooks! A true Icon! We are really going to miss you Herbie! Thanks for everything!
The impact you had on people could never be exagerated.
Thank you for the lessons!
D.Kimel
Patti -
May God give you and your family strength and comfort.
I know David and Herb are together and catching up on old times.
Jeanne
I wasn't born when the Gold medal was won in 1980 but I have always appreciated its significance to the world of hockey. Mr. Brooks will be missed in all aspects of the game but will never be forgotten in the hearts he touched, whether you are a player or a fan. Thanks. God bless Herb and his family.
Thanks for all you did for hockey Herb. You will be missed even by those of us who didn't know you personally.
It is truely a sad day in MN and the entire US. Men like Herb Brooks do not come along every day. We are all proud of how he lived and represented us all throughout his hockey career. He will be missed. Our heartfelt sympathy go out to his entire family. They should be proud of the positive influence he had on so many people in the time he had on earth. God bless Herb Brooks.
Thank you Mr. Brooks for restoring a pride in Minnesota hockey and in our nation. I will never forget watching those Gopher teams in the 70's flying and hitting down the old rink and the thrill of winning the NCAA Hockey Championships! Thank you for your leadership and grace in leading so many young men, teams and fans through the years. My heart and prayers go out to Mrs. Brooks and her family and friends.
Sincerely,
A hockey fan
Thanks for the History in the Hockey Books - Hockey's Greatest Coach. You'll be missed.
How can you put into words what Herb meant not only to the hockey fans of the state but to the fabric of the entire community.
I recall watching Herb speak at a Pee Wee banquet 10 years ago when I was coaching and every 12 year old in the room listened in awe of the man for 40 minutes.
I enjoyed you and your teams so much! Thanks for all the great moments.
Herb Brooks:
A hockey 'great',in every sense of the word.. of the greatest game in the world.
Our condolences to the Brooks Family.
Joan Broemer
You set the standard for others to follow, for years to come. Thanks for the great memories.
Thanks for all you gave to hockey, St. Cloud State, and the USA.
My heartfelt condolences to the Brooks family. My brother started taking me to Gopher hockey games in the 70's, growing up. It only took one Herb Brooks coached Gopher hockey game, to get me hooked! There was no greater atmosphere than at the old Williams Arena, when the Gophers played Wisconsin. Then came the Lake Placid Olympics, which brought the most exciting sports moment in my life. I doubt anything can ever beat it. Herb never left the hockey world, continued to contribute so much and the players and fans will always hold a great admiration for him. It's a sad day.
"Anyone who doesn't believe in miracles is not a realist."
Thanks for the memories, Herb.
thanks for all that you have done for hockey and the State of Hockey!
Herb Brooks provided me some of the best sports moments of my childhood, from the Hockey Gophers National Championship to the Olympic Gold at Lake Placid. Thanks for the memories.
Being a Minnesota native and realizing the importance of Hockey in our state, Mr. Brooks was held in the highest regard for the contributions and accomplishments he made to the game. He will be greatly missed.....
Herb Brook's legacy will prevail through those his presence has touched. The hockey community has lost a great energy and the world a true inspiration.
To the family of Herb Brooks, May God give you comfort in your loss.
Mr. Brooks did great things for Hockey in Minnesota, and the USA.
Thanks, for sharing him with us all these years.
Go with God, Herbie. You will
be sadly missed. Our thoughts
are with your family.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Herb Brooks and his family. Thank you for all the great hockey memories. I will NEVER forget the night that Team USA beat the Russians.
God Bless
Ben Simon
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Brooks family. I’m grateful for the amazing inspiration that Herb Brooks gave to me in my athletic career as well as in my personal and professional life.
MY HEART GOSE OUT ALL OF THE FREINDS AND FAMILY OF MR. BROOKS.
I WAS ONLY 11 YRS.OLD WHEN MR. BROOKS LED THE USA TEAM TO THE GOLD.
FROM THAT MOMENT ON I NEVER DID NOR WILL EVER FORGET WHAT THAT MAN DID FOR OUR COUNTRY. YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.
GOD SPEED MR. BROOKS.
Hockey may not have the world wide appeal as Soccer, Baseball or some of the big name sports but hockey would not even be close to having the popularity it has now, if it were not for Herb Brooks. I played hockey, I coach hockey and I have two sons that play hockey. We are all influenced by him in some way shape or form and I want to thank him for all he has done for hockey.
HERB, WE WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH!!!!
Herbie,
You were what Minnesota hockey is all about. Thanks for some of the most unbelievable memories that one man could be responsible for.
My condolances to the Brooks family.
Your father/husband/dear friend was loved by many.
I had the distinct pleasure of playing golf with Mr. Brooks last Thursday the 7th during the 3M Championship Pro-AM. I can't begin to tell you the number of autographs Mr. Brooks signed and the amount of time he spent in conversation with each person. The world didn't lose a great hockey ambassador, the world lost a truely wonderful, sincere man. I am greatful for having had the opportunity to have met him. He gave me a day I will never forget.
As a native of the Adirondacks in NY, I was working in the Olympic Arena as an usher the nights the USA beat the Russians and the Fins to win the Gold medal. I have never been in such a loud building before and I wish there was one more cheer that loud for all Herb did for hockey.
The legacy will live on.....you will be missed by all Minnesota Hockey Fans.
A leader of men, a motivator of many, he has left his mark on the hearts of us all. I throw my hat on the big iced over pond in the sky to you Herb!
TO THE HERB BROOKS FAMILY
MAY HE REST IN PEACE IN HEAVEN WITH OUR LORD, MY DEEPEST SYMPTHY
ON HIS TRAGIC DEATH.
JUNE
I was coached by Mr. Brooks as a neighber boy and as I attended his hockey camps down at Shattuck in the mid 70's. I never met a man so dedicated to a sport, and the mental and physical aspects of a game of life. The 70's gopher's, the 80's Olympics, the 90's when the teaching continued through many portals, and in the new millennium he came back to what made him most of who he was today; the Olympics in 2002. All along, never forgetting his roots in St. Paul.
Mr. Brooks had many significant accomplishments, but none more so than the many young boys he made into men through a vehicle known as hockey. He did this his entire life.
He will be sorely missed, not only by Minnesotans, not only by Americans, but by anyone who has an interest in any sport in existence today.
I have the priveledge of being able to brag that I lived through the greatest era in American hockey, and possibly the greatest era ever in the world of hockey. And, the only person who can own and take the credit for that is Herb Brooks (although he would have never wanted to take that credit. It was all for the players.)
God Bless you Herbie, Patty, Danny and Kelly! Your husband and father and OUR friend will be missed dearly.
As usual, words come up short to honor a man like Herb Brooks. God's great hockey arena in the cosmos of time, Herbie's still playing or coaching. All the rest of us are wondering about tickets!!!!
I was a season ticketholder to the New York Rangers and had the privilege of watching Herb Brooks coach the "Smurfs" in the early 1980s. He was a genius and worked wonders with a group of pro hockey players no one thought had a chance of succeeding. I suppose in many ways it was similar to his experience with the 1980 Olympic team in that regard.
Mr. Brooks will be sorely missed by all. My heart goes out to his family.
Your committment to youth hockey and your love for the game will never be forgotten. You have left the world a better place.
I hope Herbbie had an inkling of the impact he had on generations of familes.
I don't think it is an understatement to say that this man or at least the persona we knew of him, served as an ideal role model.
For instance, his passion for hockey brought together our family. Through the hockey teams he built(at the "U" and the U.S. Olympic team)and his at the state level.
His gift, was a passion to play hockey well and it left our family feeling as though we were the only family who understood hockey and family through each other. We were connected to each other through a game we all loved.
God speed, "Herbie." You presence will forever be missed but your spirit will endire in the game we all love.
Brian L. Schmidt
I was nine when the Miracle on ice happened...still the most thrilling thing I think I've ever seen, even over the Twins world series wins. Just atching the last seconds of the USSR game still chills me. What a tragic loss. Thanks for making us all believe in miracles, Herb.
Minnesota has simply lost a Hockey ICON.
I remember playing hockey as a kid we used to love skating those HERBIES in practice...
Mr. Brooks will be greatly missed.
The US Hockey Team winning the gold medal in 1980 will always be one of the greatest sports moments.
I will miss a great person and teacher to the game. I have coached 18 years and can say Herb was my inspiration to teach kids the love of this game. Thanks Herb, I will miss you!
Sad,sad day for America. Great hockey man, great Minnesotan, great American!
Herb Brooks was one of a kind! He is the sole reason I started playing hockey 23 years ago. Thank you Herb for your inspiration and for keeping american hockey something to be proud of. God bless
I remember watching the Miracle on Ice live as a kid and how excited and charged up it made me. Truely a sad day. As a pass the crash site on my way to work daily like many commuters to Minneapolis I will drive by and remember what was and will be remembered of Herb Brooks. My deepest condolences go to his family and friends.
Thanks for the memories!! It always reminds me of my childhood in Minnesota when I see a clip from the miracle on ice!!
Herb will be greatly missed - he
was great. My thoughts and prayers
go out to his family
The 1980 Olympics brought hockey into my life. I feel honoured in my adult life to have watched Coach Brooks in Pittsburgh. We have lost a great coach and person.
Heaven must have needed a new hockey coach, and Herbie was the best--thanks for all the memories and your leadership on and off the ice. There will never be another like you, Coach Brooks.
To the Dear family of Herb Brooks, I do want to express my sympathy and condolences. My late husband worked with Herb at the then Hamm's brewry and had many wonderful stories to tell of a young man that had a dream. Well, that dream came true. He was a true winner in the field he chose as his career. I also was lucky enough to know Herb as I worked at a small resturant Serlin's Cafe on the East side of St. Paul not too far from Herb's family home and he would come there to eat and visit with his friends. He loved his hometown. We will miss him. May he now rest in peace.
Herb, I'm not from the state of Minnesota. In fact, I'm a black Southern girl who has never held a hockey stick. Yet I knew the first time I saw a live game that I would love hockey for the rest of my life. Although I was a little girl of 3 when your team did the impossible, I nonetheless have learned much about the true spirit and beauty of this great game threw the actions of you and your team that Olympics. Thank you for everything you've meant to USA Hockey and the whole, wide hockey world. God Bless You among the angels!
The loss of a wonderful hockey mind from a wonderful State. Mr. Brooks enhanced hockey at all levels from the "U" to the Olympics. Here in Canada where hockey makes the headlines winter AND summer his untimely passing was news from coast to coast to coast. As is the case in Minnesota it was also met with sadness.
One of the hardest things about living away from Minnesota these past 3 years is trying to stay up on the Minnesota Hockey News. The news of Herb Brooks' death came to us from many sources and saddens us deaply. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Brooks family and our state of Minnesota.
Keep your head up and your stick on the ice.
It is with great sorrow to hear about the death of Coach Brooks. May God provide comfort and solice to the Brooks family as they grieve over their loss.
I will always remember the feeling of that 1980 Olympic Hockey Team. I grew up an avid hockey player and fan. My greatest memory, though, is watching the game with my father. I know how much that game meant to him. Beating the Russians was one of the most proud days of his life. I am forever grateful to Herb Brooks for giving me a memory to share with my father and a memory to cherish of my father. Herb, you will be sorely missed.
I came to the U of M as a native New Yorker, but I have been a Minnesota hockey fan ever since I attended the U of M, I will never forget Herb's passion for Gopher hockey, the U and hockey in general, his running the program in a first class way in every respect, his innovativeness, and his refreshing personality. I know of no other locker room where one of the signs would say "Passes come from the heart, not from the stick."
I was fortunate to know Herb while
broadcasting Gopher hockey on the school radio station, and he had a knack for making everyone feel important.
I'm glad I got to know him, and was saddened to hear of his death. It
almost seems surreal to speak of him in the past tense.
My condolences to all the family and other loved ones of Herb Brooks.
He touched so many people in his life. In 1980 he made a differance in not just the lives of those he was coaching, but a differance in the entire nation. There are not many moments in our lives that everyone remembers where they were at the time. The Miricle on Ice is one of those times. Thank you Herb Brooks for making a differance in my life that week in February 1980.
Thank you for your dedication to Minnesota Hockey. God Bless.
Randy Franks
As an alumni of St. Cloud State from 1990 - 1995, I am very appreciative of Herb Brooks' dedication to his sport, as the National Hockey Center in St. Cloud would not exist if not for him. We've lost a Minnesota hockey pioneer. And absolutely nobody will forget the Miracl on Ice.
My sympathies to his family and all who were close to him. You may be gone, but you'll live forever in our minds, Herbie...
I remember where I was when I heard the US beat the Soviet Union at the 1980 games. I was watching a high school wrestling tournament when it was announced. A standing ovation was given. I wouldn't believe it until I watched the game on tape delay.
Thank you Herb for providing the most exhilariting sports moment I have ever witnessed. Also, thank you for saving the Pittsburgh Penguins season during your last coaching gig. You brought out the best in Jaromir Jagr, something we haven't seen since.
Being honored to have met and listen to Herb Brooks speak, you could tell he had a great understanding of the game of hockey and a better plan to try and keep more participants playing hockey as they got older. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family and friends.
I wasn't even a hockey fan, but everyone knows about 1980 US Mens Hockey team. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved the game
The "Miracle" is one event in history where people can tell you exactly where they were when it happened. He is responsible for making hockey in the U.S. what it is today. Thanks Herb for the memories! My condolences to your family, and to the millions of family in the U.S. Hockey Community. You will be sorely missed!
I would just like to thank Mr. Brooks for all of his contributions to hockey, I am a Division III college hockey player and am very thankful that a man could stay this passionate about a sport that so many love so much. Thank you for everything you have ever done for hockey. You will always be remembered as an amazing legend to all.
I'll never forget being at home that day in 1980 when my dad ran into the house after work telling us to turn on the radio because the U.S. hockey team was beating the Russians. Thanks for that moment!
Herbie, thanks for putting Minnesota hockey on the map from The Gophs' to the Huskies the Stars and of course the USA Olympic team. You are a legend on and off the ice. Herb will be remembered for decades to come.
I was a student at the Univ of Minn for the 1979 season when Mr. Brooks led the Gophers to the championship - what a thrill. The following year he coached the US a Gold in the Olympics - what a miracle!! He will forever be remembered as one of the great legends in the world of hockey. Thanks for the memories. God bless and rest in peace.
To the Brooks family:
Thanks for sharing him with the world. He will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Coach Brooks.
What a sad summer! To know that the NHL and the hockey world lost 2 revered coaches recently.
Herb Brooks was one of the greatest coaches in ALL of sports. What he had accomplished for the U and for Olympic Hockey is undeniable....he was GREAT. A great American and a greater Minnesotan. Thank You Herbie..for everything you have done for hockey and for our great state. You'll be missed!!
Growing up in a hockey community you knew who Herb Brooks was. He was a great coach/leader in the sport of hockey. He will be missed by all!
Every time I think of Lake Placid, I smile. It was one of those moments in life that we will never see the likes of again.
Herbie, thanks so much!!!
As a fellow Minnesotan I am very sad to hear the news on the tragic death of Herb Brooks, as an avid hockey fan and former UofM Duluth grad I am reflecting today on the many fond memories I have watching and playing hockey in Minnesota.
What a loss...to Minnesota, to America, to the game of hockey. Herb Brooks demonstrated that through passion, commitment, creativity and the pursuit of excellence, miracles really do happen. Thank you for using hockey to make the world a better place. My sincerest condolences to your family and to all who love you.
I remember that night back in 1980 when USA Hockey Team won the Gold Medal. I was so happy. It was great to see a great coach coaching a great team. Herbie will be missed by all.
My condolences to Herb's family and friends.
Herb Hockey...
Do you believe in Miracles...!!
So sorry to hear the news yesterday.Herb played such a large part in what was one of the most memorable moments in USA sports.For me personally the victory over Russia in 1980 is right there with the Twins series win in 1987.Over the years I have come to find more appreciation for what the win must have meant to cold war era USA at a time when I was only 11.It brought the country together as one and for one shining moment brought a sense of pride that may never be duplicated ever.
A sad day in USA Hockey. Herb was a great coach, leader and educator to all of those that play the greatest game in the world. Coach Brooks will be sadly missed
To Herb: You will be missed; not only by hockey fans who loved to watch your teams, but also by all Americans who learned from you that the ingredients of faith, hard work, discipline, self-sacrifice and character can be stirred together to create "miracles."
With sympathy, Gary A. Giovannetti
Just last night I watched the HBO special on the 1980 Olympic hockey team. It was probably the 20th time I've seen it. Herb Brooks wasn't just a coaching legend in the sport of hockey. He was a legend for everyone who dreams of the impossible.
His name and his image will be forever immortalized in Minnesota hockey. He was a true ambassador for the game he loved so much. My sympathies to all of his close friends and family members.
Our blessings are with the family! Hockey in Minnesota will not be the same now with the passing of Herb. He will be truly missed by all! God bless his family!!
May god bless Herb Brooks and his family....He will be missed...
USA beating the Soviets is my first clear childhood memory. It had a profound impact on my life, and it was because of Herbie's dream and innovation. I met him many times in my life, despite of the success, he stayed true to his St. Paul roots. The last time I talked to him was at Mariucci right before the 2002 Olympics, he took 20 minutes out of his time and asked me questions about ME. He wanted to know my roots and life. He was truly a selfless individual, and an American Hero.
Herb, you will be missed by all who met you!!!
My condolences to the family and friends of this great man.
The State of hockey has lost a true star of the North !
-Keith Malone (formerly from Cloquet)
Heaven's Hockey Team just received an all-Star Coach! We will miss you, Herb!!
To the Family of Herb Brooks:
The Hockey world was saddened yesterday by the tragic loss of Herb Brooks. I was watching the 1980 hockey game from a bowling alley. May God comfort you during this very sad time. Linda Kelly
Herb brooks was a true hero, in a age when ther are not many.
We've all lost a great hockey talent, a great hockey legend. Herb was unique. Thanks for the memories and keeping the passion in the game we grew up with. Thankyou for the encouragement over the years. Herb....I'll miss you. Doug
A true leader of young men, you will be missed!
what was better than driving in a warm car listening to late night u of m hockey matchups.so many great contests right up to the final horn. herbie was truly a minnesota sports legend.
skate away herbie....we are with you
On February 26th, 1980, the following Tuesday after the "Miracle on Ice" game, New Hampshire voters went to the polls to vote in the first in the nation presidential primary. Many of the returns had the name of Herb Brooks as write in candidate for president fo the United States.
Herb, your legend grows greater and greater every day. And today, it seems like the middle of next year.
I remember like it was yesterday when the 1980 team won "gold". I was the only kid in my school who played hockey. After the victory hockey exploded and all my friends played.
I had the chance to actually meet Herb Brooks when he would speak at the USA Hockey Coaches Seminars. I soaked up every word and drill he showed us. I still use them today when I coach.
It is truely a sad time in the world of hockey. He is going to be missed greatly!!!!!
I can remember that February night back in 1980 as if it were yesterday when that group of boys, led by an incredible coach, beat the Russians. As I looked through my son's hockeys cards this morning and found his card from the Olympic Team collection, my heart hurt as I realized the man we all lost yesterday. My prayers are with his family and friends. He will always be with you. God Bless.
A player and fan my entire life, I was in the Marines in 1980 when the Miracle on Ice happened. The Miracle on Ice gave us all something to be proud of and a reason to be a proud American.
Mr. Brooks validated U.S hockey
and touched the sport like no other person could. He will be sorely missed in the USA hockey community.
Sincere condolences to his family.
Herbie, thanks for the most unbelievable and improbable memory in the history of sports. I don't know if we'll ever be able to fully appreciate how much you did for hockey in America. Don Lucia's modification of Badger Bob's timeless quote hits it right on the head. "It's a sad day for hockey."
God speed Herb, You were a hero in a time that we really needed a hero.
Mike
Thanks-- Winning the Olympics--one of the greatest of all
accomplishments in sporting history !
Herbie will be missed by all. He was an unbelievable human being.He always had time for people and was always willing to lend an ear or a hand. God Bless the family.
Regards,
Mark C. Strobel
THERE ARE NO WORDS...ONLY TEARS!
YOU NOT ONLY GAVE US HOPE ...YOU PROVED THAT ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!
AS A HOCKEY FAN, A PENGUIN FAN AND AN AMERICAN...I THANK YOU!
I "DO" BELEIVE IN MIRACLES...
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Brooks family. God Bless.
As an avid hockey fan, I truly enjoyed watching the improved Gophers in the late 70's. But I was most fortunate to have attended all of the exibition games at the Met leading up to 'The Miracle on Ice.' Memories to be cherished. My sympathies to your family, friends and players. God Bless.
One of our state's favorite sons will be missed, and his vision for hockey will continue to be imitated. May God's peace be upon his family. Coach Brooks, you will always be part of Minnesota hockey.
To the family of Herb Brooks: We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to you. We are very grateful for the support which Herb gave to Camp Confidence over the years. His accomplishments in the annals of hockey history will be remembered for a long time to come. Please accept our sincere condolences. Denis & Mary Stedman
I am a University of North Dakota Hockey fan since the 1950s who has admired and respected Herb Brooks almost as long. He will be missed but he will also be remembered, and not only by Gopher fans.
We have lost one of the true characters of hockey! Herbie you will be missed. Thank you for all you did for Minnesota hockey and hockey all over the world.
To the Family May the Lord continue to Bless you in this time of sorrow.
i was just born in 1980 when the US team beat the Soviet Union team, and I was born in Soviet Union, in a sence I was kind of being born during the history year for hockey. But i just wanted to say that he made hockey the sport it is today. He coached with passion and it showed through his players.
thank you herb!
I had the great pleasure of working the Ice Hockey venue at the 1980 Olympics, and got to see "The miracle" first hand. Thank you Coach Brooks for memories that will last a lifetime.
Coach:
Thanks for all you accomplished in 1980 and your efforts in elevating hockey in America to world prominence. I am proud as a New York Ranger fan to have experienced your tenure as a Ranger coach.
What a shocking and terrible tragedy. The "Miracle on Ice" seems as though it happened only yesterday. As a Rangers fan hoping he'd return behind the bench this year, I can only wonder "what if ?" May Gob bless Herb and the entire Brooks family.
As a born and bread Minnesotan, Herb has always been one of the sport personalities that I've always admired. I'm very sad that we lost such a great hero to Minnesota and to the sport of Hockey. My prayers go out to him and his family.
Great person, Great Life. Touched so many during a tough time in America. Helped to rediscover our pride as a nation. He will be missed
As a young kid growing up playing the great game of hockey in MN, Herbie Brooks and the '80 Olympic team is all I ever thought about. This great man will truly be missed and I would like to thank him for giving every kid in MN something to dream about.
God bless the Brooks family.
I was shocked and saddened when I heard the news. It is one of those things you hope that the information is incorrect. The victory over Russia is still clear in my mind. I remember telliong people at work that I didn't want to know the score beacuse I wanted to watch it on TV. Right before I left work someone had to announce the score. Even though I knew who one, it was easily one of the best games of any sport that I have ever seen on TV.
Thanks for the great memory Herb!!!!
God Bless
The 'Miracle on Ice' legacy gave me a true appreciation and love for hockey that I never had before. A sad day and great loss for both hockey and the world of sports. Thanks for your passion and vision for dreams that were bigger and better than we could have ever imagined.
Living in Alaska in 1980, we followed with excitement our Olympic team's wins. We shall never forget you.
A sad day for Hockey. Herb Brooks took the time to sign a USA Hockey Team pennant for me back in 1980 before an expedition game at the old Met. That thing hung on my wall for 8 years. What a great Hockey legend!
I EXPRESS MY CONDOLENSES TO THE HERB
BROOK FAMILY AND TO ALL HIS FRIENDS.
ONE OF THE BIGGESTS THRILLS OF MY
LIFE WAS WHEN UNITED STATES BEAT
RUSSIA IN THE 1980 OLYMPICS. I STILL
GET CHOKED UP WHEN I SEE HIGH LITES
OF THAT GAME. HERB BROOKS, THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES.
BILL ASHLEY
I was one of the two referees the Saturday night in 1975 when Herbie's Gophers defeated Michigan Tech in Houghton to win the McNaughton Cup. That night a snow storm closed the airport. Very early in the morning, I was sitting in my motel room wondering how I was going to get back to Madison when the 'phone rang. A voice said "Duff. Get over to the Union. You can ride the team bus home with us." That was Herbie. May he rest in the peace he deserves. Jim Duffy
I thank God for Herb Brooks, for the positive influence he had on all people. especially the people he coached.
Thank you Herb for the most exciting athletic event in my memory.
Blessings to the the family who becuse of their love for him grieve his departing this life yet celebrate his passing from this life to the next.
Thanks for being that nice guy who sat by me during the High School Hockey Tourments when I was in grade school. You helped me be a life long hockey fan. And a proud Eastsider and Johnson Grad.
Farewell Herb!Youth/amateur hockey owes much to this man, as he energized the movement in America with his style and success. I think his spirit is felt on every rink or pond where kids play for the love of the game. Herb demonstrated commitment, self-discipline, self-sacrifice and teamwork do matter.
I was just 8 months old and 90 miles away when Herb Brooks coached Team USA to the Miracle on Ice and gave the people of the USA a reason to smile and be proud again. It was a moment I will treasure forever as a hockey fan and a patriotic American. USA Hockey lost a brilliant man on Aug 11 2003, but they also gained an angel. His spirit will live on in hockey rinks around the country and especially in a small arena in Lake Placid NY where he helped change the face of hockey forever. I send my condolences to the Brooks family and will keep them in my thoughts and prayers.
God needed a hockey coach in heaven
The world of hockey will never be the same now that Herb is gone. My condolenses to his family and his many friends throughout the world. Thanks coach Brooks for being a true hockey innovator. You'll be sadly missed.
It is amazing when an event occurs in our busy lives that makes you stop, reflect, reminisce, and sadly, mourn.
I wish to extend a belated thank you to Herb for the impact he made in my life as a young Minnesota hockey player.
I attended the "Herb Brooks" Hockey camp at Shattuck school in Faribault, MN in 1976. I had been a solid "B" squad player my whole career and after the training, motivation, and inspiration I received by Herb and his staff I was able to make the A squad my last year of Bantams and I went on to play varsity at my High School and ultimately was Captain and all-conference my senior year.
Thank you Herb for your inspiration. The hockey world has lost the King.
To a great coach and man you will be missed.
What a loss for Minnesota hockey and hockey everywhere!!!He will be missed. My sincerest condolences to his family and hockey fans everywhere.
I'll never forget watching the USA beat the Russians. We needed a lift then and Herb helped provide it. Thanks for the year at SCSU. We have a great program with the foundation Herb layed. Thanks Herbie. Now you have the best seat in the house !
Herb Brooks made one 10 yr old boy sit up and take notice of what the underdog can do on Feb 22, 1980. And I've never been the same since.
R.I.P. Coach, you are missed.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Brooks family.
No words can describe how deeply Herb Brooks will be missed by family, friends and hockey fans. Thanks Herb for all of the great hockey players and games you made possible!
Hockey is the greatest sport in the world. Minnesota is the greatest hockey state in the U.S. And with all due respect to the man for whom the arena is named, Herb Brooks was the greatest man in Minnesota hockey. That is the signficance of what happened yesterday. As a native Minnesotan, I'm saddened, but thankful for what he did for Minnesota hockey.
I thank Herb Brooks for giving me the greatest feeling of elation I will ever know.
You will always be a sports hero to me.
God Bless your family
My deepest sympathies to the Brook's family. You have suffered a great loss. May you find comfort in your days ahead in all of your memories. May you find strength and support in the many, many people in Minnesota and around the world who are grieving with you.
Minnesota lost a great legend yesterday.
May you rest in peace ~ Herb Brooks.
With deepest sympathy ~
A Minnesota Hockey Fan.
Thank you for all of the memories Mr. Brooks.....you and your players from the U to the Olympics will always be my heroes. My deepest sympathy to the Brooks family and to my old home, Minnesota.
It was always a treat to see Herb Brooks at a local high school game, and to watch all of the people go over and say hello to him even though he was watching the game from a corner. It just felt good to see him there. I will remember you.
God bless his family with comfort and Eternal rest grant to him.
Herb Brooks made me proud to be a Minnesotan. I was in college at Moorhead when he led a group of men my age to the greatest upset in sports history. In some ways it helped me to believe in myself that I too was able to reach for the stars and overcome my obstacles in life. Thanks Herbie.
I knew of the family only through Terry and JoAnn Lane, but I am very sad for all of them. He is now in Heaven and getting a team ready. My deepest sympathy and God's blessing to his wife and children.
Deepest empathy to his loved ones. I just saw the cable program of the story about the 80's Olympic Hockey team. Their story is truly inspiring. I was twelve when it happened and remember it but didn't grasp the importance. I know he and the team went on to other great things in and out of sports but the determination of the players and leadership of the coach was awesome. One of the greatest real life stories in my lifetime.
...my prayers to the family. i grew up playing hockey on the lakes in the adirondacks of northern new york. i was in a tavern across the street from the olympic arena the night of the USA-soviet game and we kept running outside to get the current score from one of our friends working in the arena. since that cold, cold evening, i'll always believe in miracles. thanks for the memories and making American hockey so much the better. good bye, coach....
Thanks for the memories.....1980 was a golden year!
Deepest sympathy to the Brooks' family. We all feel your loss - what an inspiration Coach Brooks was to so many. There are no words to express the pride we as hockey fans and all of America felt when he coached our young Olympic Team to the Miracle on Ice. He accomplished so much in his life...in our hearts he IS "Mr. Hockey". He touched our lives in Omaha from 1980 when he brought his team to Ak-Sar-Ben to play an exhibition game vs. one of the Russian teams until as recent as a couple of years ago when we heard him speak to our UNO Maverick Hockey Team. God Bless you Coach...you WILL BE MISSED.
His quotes will live on forever.
Condolences to his family.
As a 1960 graduate of the U of M, my wife and I remember Herb in his college days, when he was "only" an outstanding player for the Gophers. Little did we imagine then that the generation to follow would witness him perform a "Miracle on Ice". Deepest sympathy to the Brooks Family .
I cried when I heard of your passing. You were always more than a hockey coach to me and I thank you for the examples of honor and integrity you displayed. God be with you and your family
It's always sad to lose a person of passion and vision prematurely. Mr. Brooks gave us many moments of excitement and pride. We are grateful. To his family, we mourn your loss. Thanks for sharing him with us.
A great man. No one will ever forget the improbable '80 Olympic team and what that meant. They say Minnesota is synomomous with hockey and Herb Brooks exemplified that.
never forget that he was from johnson high school, he in his winning the the miracle on ice . took time to go back to school for graduation to speak to the kids ( my brother mike was finishing school that year) . we meet him as coach of the north stars( we were fan club members) what a class act, God bless the family in this time of sadness. thanks mr. brooks for the short time you were with us .
Best wishes to Herb Brooks family and friends. He will be missed.
One of the truly great minds and one of the truly great personalities of hockey is gone. I cannot think of a more classy and genuine person I have had the honor of knowing. As a member of the media who has covered Pittsburgh sports in general and the Penguins in particular, he will be sorely missed, not as a sports legend, but as a fine human being. I have the same feelings today as I had when I learned of Roberto Clemente's death.
All of Pittsburgh's hearts go out to Herb's family.
One of Minnesota's greatest hockey ambassadors ... player, coach, spokesperson, representative. We will all miss his leadership, constributions, and his undying love for hockey and his home state of Minnesota.
Good bye to a great coach and man.
Have fun with Badger Bob I am sure he was there to meet you.
God Bless from Appleton Wisconsin and Wisconsin Hockey.
I reluctantly moved from Minnesota to Florida about three years ago and have always felt that Minnesota was taken away from me as a result. The passing of Herb Brooks makes it feel like a big piece of Minnesota has been taken away from all of us.
My condolences to the Brooks family and all of his friends.
I had season tickets to the exhibition series the Team had at Met Center as a junior in high school...Herb was an inspiration and innovator as a leader that I still carry as a role model. The world has changed shape now and seems smaller now that I know he's no longer with us.
MY SORROWS TO THE BROOKS FAMILY AND FRIENDS,MAY GOD GRANT HIM PEACE. A GREAT COACH.
Sad day for hockey. You will highly missed in Pittsburgh.
Always a Pens fan.
now at age 35 my one of my fondest memories in sports is when Herb took a bunch of kids, many from Minnesota, to take on the scariest country to me. The Soviets, from that point on I believed anything could happen in sports and in the world. Thanks for the memories Herb.
I am so proud of being from the State of Hockey and Herb Brooks helped to make it so great. He symbolized the grit and character of the people.
As a recent emigree to the USA in 1980, the Olympic "Miracle in Ice" acomplishment of the team was a lesson in the nature of caracter and desire to excel. Coach Brooks was a great leader and will be missed by all. He touched people's lives in ways that are not easily achieved. Peace be with him and his family.
I was born in the Twin Cities, lived in Minn. until I was 26, and grew up playing hockey. My wife (also born and raised in Minn.) and I are passionate Gopher hockey fans and have followed Herb's career and were delighted with his successes. I've never had heros, but if I did, he'd be one of them.
when i met herbie in grand rapids a few years ago it was such a pleasure. he probably would not want to be a hero but he is with me. he was talking about his days with the nhl teams. he won't be remembered for that. i told him as we all know that he'll be remembered for minnesota high school, gophers and the olympics--you'll never be forgotten.
If I had ever really played The Game, I would have wanted to play for Herbie.
Eternal rest to you, Coach. You are missed!
To the Family of Herb Brooks,
I watched the 1980 Olympics in awe of Herb and his team. I will never forget it. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Herb, rest in peace. You are one in a million.
Sheryl Frankel
St. Paul, Minnesota
What a loss we are feeling this morning. Never forget what he brought to the game.
A great American, a great patriot, and a great coach. What an epitaph!
Thanks for loving the game of hockey and sharing your love with all of us. You'll be missed.
Many memories of a friendly rivalry with Michigan Tech. John and Herb had a lot of respect for each other.
My sympathy to Patty and his family. Treasure the years you had together.
The winter of 1980, the U.S. Olympic Hockey Team, and Herb Brooks are etched in minds of millions of Americans and will be forever. What Herb Brooks and those twenty remarkable young men accomplished is a standing testimony to amateur athletics, unwavering dedication, positive leadership, and what a combination of the three can achieve under the right circumstances. The Olympic games provided the opportunity. The players provided the horsepower and prowess. Brooks provided the leadership. No Olympic coach has duplicated that feat since. He will be missed.
I'm grateful for the many positive memories from several periods of his life. My deepest sympathies and condolences to his family and friends.
The loss of Herb Brooks will be felt by many outside of the sport of hockey. My sympathy to the family. I had the privilege of speaking to Mr. Brooks by phone twice while I was a non-traditional student at S.C.S.U. He was so kind and resposive to the request I had on the behalf of the Criminal Justice Department. He didn't act rushed and he made my day when he jokingly offered a place on the S.C.S.U. hockey team to a then fifty three year old grandmother. I have never forgotten that personal contact with him. God must have needed an exceptional person at this time, so he called Herb Brooks.
My most sincere condolences to the Brooks family, University of Minnesota and the sport of hockey, who have lost a great coach and judge of talent. Coach Brooks' death leaves a gaping hole; one that won't be easily filled.
Thank you, Coach, for your passion and dedication to the sport of hockey. Thank you also, for giving us the "Miracle on Ice" in 1980 and our silver medal in the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Dear Coach, Thanks for inspiration, the lessons, the leadership. You showed us how to reach excellence when we needed it the most. Your spirit will live on for generations to come. At every game, we'll feel your presence in the rafters of every American ice barn and arena where boys and girls lace up their boots. Peace be with you Coach.
Herb Brooks has been a part of my life since grade school. My folks would take me to games at the U. My first memories of hockey are of Herb Brooks' U teams, all those championships and great, competitive teams. He was like part of our family. When we tuned into the 1980 Olympic games we weren't just pulling for the USA, we were pulling for Herb Brooks and his players. The news of his death hit me not unlike a death of a family member. Herb Brooks brought great joy into my life, and I praise God for him, and pray God's comfort for Patti and the whole family. He made the world a better place.
So saddened to hear of the loss of this great "hockey tradition" in Herb. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the entire hockey community. Fr. Bob
Growing up in NW Minnesota,Herb Brooks is a name that always came up when we talked hockey. He is right up there with the hockey legends of Minnesota. Condolences to his family.
Thank you Coach, for your patriotism, and your contributions to USA Hockey. never one to take any of the spotlight, the images of you turning and walking to your dressing room as your players celebrated, are a tribute to you as a coach, and as a man.
Theirs was the moment,
Yours is a lifetime.
we will always "believe in miracles"
Hockey everywhere owes a great deal to Minnesota & Coach Brooks. He was the "master on ice" who gave our country warmth for many winter's.
Condolences to all of the Brooks family; Patti, Danny, Kelly. From one East-sider to another "Thanks for the memories".
My thoughts and prayers are with the Brooks family.
The two games for the Gold are one of those great historical moments that never leave you. Thank you Mr. Brooks.
Having the opportunity to meet Herb a couple of times, I was surprised by his friendliness and sense of humor. His opinions and ideas on the state of the game will be missed. His impact on hockey will never be forgotten.
Many thanks Herbie for all you did for our family. And especially for recuiting our son David from Edina back in '77. It has meant so much to him to have played for you and the U of Minn. Thanks again for the National Championship back in '79 in Detroit. You have given all the hockey folks in Minnesota so much.And thanks for building not only hockey players and teams, but men with character.
Like his walk into the tunnel after his 1980 team won the Gold, Herb has been removed from the spotlight forever. We will never forget him.
Personally, I'll never forget the final minutes of the game against the Soviets during the 1980 Olympics. The Peewee team I was coaching, called time out from their own game to watch the last three minutes of the Olympic game against the Soviet team on a 5" TV provided by one of our team parents. After Herbie's team won that game, I believe I witnessed the immediate change that his teams accomplishments would make in America. For the last three minutes of our game, I watched two benches of Peewees play with; Inspiration, Dedication, Pride and Passion. These traits would soon be obvious in all Americans after the Olympic team won the Gold medal against Finland.
My sincere condolences go out to Herb's family and loved ones.
Spending time together in Afton, OK as out main speaker for the 1980 Shade Information Systems sales meeting I was taken in by the honesty, and all around friendship that we developed. The Badger Bob and Notre Dame recruiting stories will forever be remembered. You will be missed and Thanks for your time you shared with us.
He was a hero to many young hockey players. He will be missed. All his friends and family have my sympathy.
I would like to express our families sympathy to all of Coach Brooks family and friends. We in the "state of hockey" will never forget what he has done for the sport of hockey for us and all around the U.S. We will all miss him, he was Minnesota Hockey!!
Herb Brooks' accomplishments to the entire hockey world will not be forgotten. I will never forget how he helped us forget the hostage crisis, the Soviets invading Afghanistan, and the economy for a while so we could have pride in our country and shout "USA! USA!"
My thoughts are with his family.
A loss to the State, the nation, and the world of hockey, but especially to the 1980 Olympic Hockey team and the University of Minnesota! He brought lots of pride to the name of hockey and "Minnesota". Herb, you will long be remembered.
I met Herb Brooks when I was nine years old, at an open skate at old Williams Arena in 1976, the second time the Gophers would win a National Championship. I was just a bit on the young side to fully understand what the man had accomplished to date, but by the time he left Lake Placid there would be no doubt.
Herbie did more for American hockey than anyone ever has and even that underestimates his contributions.
God bless you and your family, Herbie.
I was never a really huge hockey fan until 1980 when I watched Herb Brooks take the young USA team all the way to the Gold. It is a memory that I will never forget. It's a sad lost for the state of Minnesota. Thanks Herb for all your hockey wisdom.
For a lot of young men who were beginning coaching in the 1970s, Herb Brooks was the guy we wanted to emulate. He had an inquisitive mind, a creative approach, and was not afraid to challenge his players or conventional wisdom. He lit the torch for many hockey people in Minnesota and its my feeling that his torch will be burning in the memories of Minnesotans for a long time.
Thank you for what you have done for hockey. You will truly be missed.
Though I was only 8 years old when the Miracle On Ice occurred, I remember what a momentous moment it was to beat the Mighty Russians !! I still to this day feel such a tremendous sense of pride over the the strong Minnesota ties to that team, led by none other than Herb Brooks.
When I heard of his death yesterday it was such a shock. Minnesota and the United States have lost a legend.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Brooks family and the hockey community. May God be with you.
Thank's for all of the great memories.
A great man who will be remembered for all time. Respects to his family, may they know the joy Herb brought to and shared with all sports fans. He is the kind of role model we need today more then ever. Hard work, respect and kindness can bring you success if you put your heart in it. Herb taught us all what it felt like to be a winner.
A legend has passed, God bless Herb and his family.
My sincerest deep condolences to the Brooks family and friends. The Hockey Family lost one of its greatest treasures who gave us all a profound sense of pride in Lake Placid. I was only 14 growing up in Iowa when The Miracle on Ice Team beat the mighty Soviets. Hockey didn’t mean much to me growing up, but now that I’ve lived in Minnesota for 5 years, I’ve grown to love EVERYTHING about this great state! And from time to time I still watch Thee Game, as I refer to it, which I had taped off ESPN Classic. I still cheer when Team USA scores and ultimately wins! It is rare for a man in our lifetime, such as Coach Brooks, to create such an impact as he did for an entire nation. Thanks, Coach Brooks, for giving me some of fondest memories one can have growing up!
I wasn't alive for the Miracle on Ice, but what Herb did for hockey will have a lasting impact that will follow me for the rest of my life. I'll miss you Herbie.
Thanks for everything, Coach.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathy are with the family.
Herb was an inspiration to all. We will sorely miss you.
It was a tough drive in this AM listening to Sid Hartman and Dave Lee talk about Herb. I remember vividly the 1980 games as if they were yesterday, still have the game and medal presentation on tape.
What really hit me is when some man who was driving past the accident scene told of the hockey jersey and hat in place at the scene. It was hard to hold back the tears.
Mr. Brooks:
There are two reasons that the sport of hockey is a part of my life, besides the fact that I was raised in Minnesota, my father and you.
I was nine years old when the 1980 Olympic team won the gold medal. Until then, hockey was no