2014 Olympic Preview: Can Russia Skate to Glory on Home Ice?

The last time Russia had the Olympic games it was summer, the height of the cold war, and no one wanted to go to Russia. More than three decades later, they are getting the Olympics again, and no event will match the attention given to hockey. The Russians adore their hockey, and the nation’s best athletes usually flock to the sport. In Sochi 2014, Russia is certain to ice an incredibly talented team, with more than enough motivation in front of rabid home crowds to bring home the gold medal.

Dispatches From Planet Hockey: U Shoulda Been There Edition

Somewhere in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the office that serves as nerve central for the administrative body that determines the fates of young hopefuls all over the country has been busy. While other hockey entities may lay claim to down time and an off-season, USA Hockey (originally known as AHAUS until 1989) has been in a state of perpetual motion since 1936.