Brock Nelson Aims to Continue Family's Olympic Hockey Legacy

Olympian looks to become third-generation gold medalist for Team USA

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Brock Nelson, a current member of the U.S. Olympic hockey team, comes from a family with a rich history of Olympic success. His grandfather Bill Christian and great-uncle Roger Christian were part of the 1960 U.S. gold medal-winning team, while his uncle Dave Christian was on the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" squad. Nelson hopes to add to his family's Olympic legacy by winning gold in 2026.

Why it matters

The Nelson family's multi-generational Olympic hockey success is a rare and inspiring feat, highlighting the power of sports to bring families together and create lasting legacies. Brock Nelson's quest for gold adds to the storied history of U.S. Olympic hockey and could inspire the next generation of players.

The details

Brock Nelson, a 34-year-old forward, is making his second appearance at the Olympics. He has two bronze medals from past international events and nearly 1,000 games of NHL experience. In the tournament opener, Nelson scored two goals to help the U.S. defeat Latvia 5-1. While his family's Olympic pedigree is impressive, with his grandfather, great-uncle, and uncle all winning gold, Nelson has yet to capture that elusive top prize himself.

  • Brock Nelson's grandfather Bill Christian and great-uncle Roger Christian were members of the 1960 U.S. Olympic gold medal-winning hockey team.
  • Brock Nelson's uncle Dave Christian was on the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" U.S. Olympic hockey team that won gold.
  • Brock Nelson is competing in his second Olympic Games in 2026.

The players

Brock Nelson

A 34-year-old forward on the U.S. Olympic hockey team, looking to continue his family's legacy of Olympic gold medals.

Bill Christian

Brock Nelson's grandfather, who won Olympic gold as a member of the 1960 U.S. hockey team.

Roger Christian

Brock Nelson's great-uncle, who won Olympic gold as a member of the 1960 U.S. hockey team.

Dave Christian

Brock Nelson's uncle, who won Olympic gold as a member of the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" U.S. hockey team.

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What they’re saying

“Lots of tears. I could hear him get choked up on the phone. It meant a lot just because he's been such a great role model. I remember skating with him when I was young, back in Warroad (Minnesota). He's still my biggest fan. Still watches me on a daily. He's never put any pressure on me. And just, he supports me no matter what.”

— Brock Nelson (Team USA)

What’s next

Nelson and Team USA will look to continue their strong start in the Olympic tournament as they pursue the gold medal that has eluded the U.S. hockey program for over 40 years.

The takeaway

Brock Nelson's quest to become a third-generation Olympic gold medalist for the U.S. hockey team is a remarkable feat that highlights the power of sports to bring families together and create lasting legacies. His family's success has inspired him, and he hopes to add to that storied history by leading Team USA to its first Olympic hockey gold since the "Miracle on Ice" in 1980.