Why Finland’s Olympic Hockey Gold Was So Important

Finland’s Olympic hockey gold

Was more than just a win

For the plucky Finns,

It was part of a battle centuries old.

*

Historically Finns have been herders, farmers, and fishermen,

Whose land was passed back and forth

Between their centuries-old rivals,

The Russians and the Swedes.

*

Throughout history

Finns have persevered,

Though frequently mocked,

And rarely revered.

*

Always the bridesmaid and never the bride on the ice,

Bronze and silver had grown old,

But the day had come

To reverse the tide.

*

The Czechs went up one

In the first frame.

Then the Finns scored in the second,

Tying the game.

*

And then in the third

The Finns took lead.

Their fellow countrymen crossed their fingers,

Hoping to believe.

*

And when the final buzzer sounded,

All Finns, young and old rejoiced.

Finally, yes, finally

They tasted Olympic Hockey gold.

*

On the ice they fought battles centuries old,

And by a slim margin,

The seemingly eternal underdogs

Held high Olympic gold.

*

Postscript: I am Finnish-American, and when it comes to international sports, I root for my country first, and the country of my heritage second. Needless to say, since Team U.S.A. out, I was elated with the result.