Members of the 1980 U.S. men’s hockey team gathered in New York on Wednesday to honor late teammate Mark Pavelich and raise money for The Ranch: Teammates for Life, a nonprofit that supports athletes, military veterans, and first responders dealing with issues linked to traumatic brain injury. The gala, held at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers and titled “Do You Still Believe in Miracles?”, brought together eight players from the Miracle on Ice squad.
Honoring a Legacy
Pavelich, an Olympian and NHL forward, died by suicide on March 4, 2021, at age 63. The Ranch in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, was established in his honor and opened in July 2023. Founded with help from former NHL players Barry Beck, Clint Malarchuk, and TJ Gorence, the organization offers long-term housing, therapy and wellness programs, peer support, mental health outreach, and advocacy services across the United States.
Organizers set a fundraising goal of $500,000 for the event. By Thursday afternoon, contributions had surpassed $850,000, showcasing the community’s support and commitment to mental health awareness.
John Harrington and William “Buzz” Schneider, Pavelich’s linemates from the 1980 team known as the Coneheads, were among those in attendance. Their line, rarely shuffled by coach Herb Brooks, was known for its chemistry and became one of the symbols of that Olympic run.
Team captain Mike Eruzione and fellow 1980 teammate Rob McClanahan also took part, reflecting on Pavelich’s impact as both a player and friend. Attendees from around the hockey world included Hall of Famer Pat LaFontaine, longtime Rangers broadcaster Sam Rosen, 1994 Stanley Cup–winning goaltender Mike Richter, former Rangers general manager Neil Smith, and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. Rosen served as emcee for the fundraiser, adding a touch of nostalgia and excitement to the event.
Board member Ronn Tomassoni, a childhood friend of Pavelich from Eveleth, Minnesota, noted the broad support from across Pavelich’s career, which included 341 regular-season games with the New York Rangers, 12 with the Minnesota North Stars, and two with the San Jose Sharks between 1981 and 1991.
The Miracle on Ice team secured its place in sports history with a 4-3 win over the Soviet Union in Lake Placid on Feb. 22, 1980, and clinched the gold medal two days later with a 4-2 victory over Finland. Those memories, teammates said, continue to drive efforts to build a lasting legacy for Pavelich through The Ranch, emphasizing the importance of community in mental health recovery.