Striking Silver: The Untold Story of America's Forgotten Hockey Team

by Tom Caraccioli and Jerry Caraccioli

Book Overview

For many people, the history of United States Olympic hockey begins and ends in 1980. Books have been written, movies have been made, and for many Americans it was a seminal moment in which they will... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1596700785
• ISBN13: 9781596700789
• Release Date: February 2006
• Publisher: Sports Publishing LLC
• Length: 234 Pages
• Weight: 1.22 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.4" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Going back further in American hockey history

Hockey fans will find riveting Tom Caraccioli & Jerry Caraccioli's STRIKING SILVER: THE UNTOLD STORY OF AMERICA'S FORGOTTEN HOCKEY TEAM. While many think of American hockey as starting in the 1980s; in a reality in 1972 the achievements of a young team which represented the U.S. in Asia in the Olympics went largely unrecognized during the tumult of Vietnam politics. It's time their story was told, and STRIKING SILVER achieves this, revealing the team, its major players, and the events that made them outstanding, though under-reported. Quotes from players and observers and source materials recreate the times in an involving survey.

A true underdog story

One of the great underdog stories in U.S. sports history, overlooked until now. Very interesting to learn how the coach took his winning tactics from the Russians and set the stage for the gold medal win in 1980. He was a true innovator in that respect. And the individual chapters on each player help bring their stories to life. Amazing to learn of the players who served in Vietnam before going to Japan and winning a silver medal. Overall it's the kind of story you wouldn't believe if not for the fact that it really happened. Have to wonder what the legacy would be if it took place in America, or if we were able to follow it on live tv. In today's world this would be all over the front pages of every newspaper and magazine, but back then it was virtually unknown. Glad this story was finally told, this book will occupy a space next to my favorites in my sports library.

Great Book

I thought this was a great book filled with a behind the scenes look at the men who made up a truly talented US hockey team. Like so many heros of their generation, they were completely overlooked. It's about time they had their moment to shine. Hockey fans of all ages will enjoy this book. It totally captures the spirit of America ... the drive to succeed no matter what the circumstances. Great Book, Great Team, Highly Recommend!

Big Screen Hopeful

Striking Silver was an amazing story and a quick read. Whether you are a hockey fan or not this story will inspire you. Through the personal bios I felt as though I really got to know each of the players. The book is creatively written and shows the team's transformation from individuals to a cohesive unit who unite for the sole purpose of being the best that they can be. Even though I already knew the outcome, I found myself rooting for them. They defy the odds as they journey through the Olympic games to proudly bring home the Silver. I'm glad the best kept secret in hockey is finally out. This team deserves recognition for their hard work and inspiration they provided during a time in our country's history when we needed something to get excited about. The photos and actual score sheets from the Olympic games help to bring their tale to life. This is one story I would love to see on the big screen. Two Thumbs up!

To Honor the Victors

Striking Silver is a great read. For a Hockey team to make the Olympics is a privilege but to win the Silver medal is a tremendous honor. It was hard to realize that we actually had an American Olympic Hockey team that virtually went unnoticed in their victory,and it made me want to read and find out WHY? The authors bring to life the team with the brief biographies of the players. The team work that took total committment to the sport. The brilliance of a coach who "KNEW" his team and what made them tick. How the guys worked together to make this a champion team despite personality differences, etc. brings realism to each page. The authors have given us verbally "the game." If your a hockey fan you will feel the emotions of the players, literally hear the stick hit the puck. This book is one that I am buying for everyone young person I know that plays hockey. Its inspirational and it above all shows our young "Real Heroes" who were unsung until the authors of this book gave them the honor due.