Photo: Alamy
Bill Guerin, the general manager of the U.S. hockey team, has said he would welcome President Trump to attend the upcoming game between the U.S. and Canadian teams on Thursday.
The rivalry between the two nations was on full display during a game on Saturday. When the Canadian fans booed the American national anthem, tensions were raised and fights quickly broke out within the first few seconds of the game.
The U.S. team went on to defeat the Canadians 3-1. The teams will meet for a rematch on Thursday night for the championship game in the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey tournament.
Guerin had an 18 year career in the NHL. In an interview following the game on Monday, he praised the spirit of the players, saying they were motivated by patriotism and were just trying to represent the U.S. well.
“We would love it if President Trump was in attendance,” Guerin said in reference to the Thursday game with Canada.
Geurin credited Trump’s recent comments about making Canada the 51st state with adding to the competitiveness between the two nations, and said his presence at the game would add some “political flair” to the rivalry. Instead of viewing the politics negatively, Guerin said it could just be another factor in motivating the players.
Appearing at the game would be the next in a series of iconic sports events for President Trump. Since taking office on Jan. 20, Trump has attended both the Super Bowl and the Daytona 500.