Gophers Claim Three Medals at 2026 Olympic Games

University of Minnesota Athletics celebrates hockey players' success at the 2026 Winter Olympics

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Three former University of Minnesota hockey players earned medals at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Italy. Brock Faber and Jackson LaCombe won gold medals with Team USA, while Erik Haula claimed a bronze medal for Team Finland.

Why it matters

The University of Minnesota has a storied history of producing elite hockey talent, and this latest Olympic success further cements the school's reputation as a premier program for developing world-class players. The Gophers' strong representation at the 2026 Games also highlights the continued growth and popularity of hockey in Minnesota.

The details

Brock Faber and Jackson LaCombe were part of the U.S. men's hockey team that won the gold medal, the first for the Americans in 46 years. Faber, a defensive stalwart, scored a goal and had an assist, while LaCombe was a non-dressed member of the roster. Erik Haula became the first former Gopher to earn an Olympic medal for a team other than the U.S., helping Finland win the bronze medal. Haula recorded six points in six games, including a game-winning goal and a shorthanded tally.

  • The 2026 Olympic Winter Games took place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy.
  • The men's hockey tournament concluded on February 22, 2026.

The players

Brock Faber

A defensive player from Maple Grove, Minnesota, who was the youngest member of the U.S. men's hockey team and earned a gold medal.

Jackson LaCombe

A late addition to the U.S. men's hockey team roster, though he did not dress for any games, he still earned a gold medal.

Erik Haula

A forward from Pori, Finland, who became the first former Gopher to earn an Olympic medal for a team other than the U.S., winning bronze with Finland.

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The takeaway

The University of Minnesota's hockey program continues to produce elite talent, with three former Gophers earning medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This success highlights Minnesota's status as a premier destination for developing world-class hockey players and the state's enduring passion for the sport.