Switzerland's first World Cup opponent, the USA, is fielding a team that is largely devoid of big names. However, the American system produces a lot of talent.
15.05.2026, 04:15
15.05.2026, 07:02
SDA
Last year, the Americans won World Championship gold in ice hockey for the first time since 1960 - and with the youngest team in the tournament. This is no coincidence. In 1996, USA Hockey launched the National Team Development Program, which brings together the country's best U17 and U18 players in a full-time program. The focus is less on results and more on player development. In this way, they are introduced to a professional environment at an early stage and benefit from perfect conditions.
In 2004, the USA won the title at an U20 World Championship for the first time since the introduction of this program. Since then, they have won a further six gold medals. Only Canada has been more successful at this level during this period (ten titles).
Another big factor is the college system. Spectators at last year's Spengler Cup in Davos were able to see just how well trained the players there are, when the assembled "US Collegiate Selects" put in an inspiring performance and reached the final, losing 6-3 to the hosts. Coach Guy Gadowsky told Keystone-SDA at the time: "If Swiss players want to go into this league, I would definitely advise them to do so, because it is also very helpful for their personal development. I think it's one of the best educations you can get."
In February in Milan, the Americans also won Olympic gold thanks to a 2:1 victory after overtime against the Canadian star ensemble. However, only Matthew Tkachuk from that year's provisional squad will be taking part in the World Championships. Only Mason Lohrei and Isaac Howard from last year's World Championship team are taking part. The squad also includes three players from university teams. On paper, the squad is significantly weaker than last year.
The USA beat Germany 5:2 in their only test match before the World Championships. "Even if they don't have the top names like at the Olympic Games, they are very, very good players," says Swiss coach Jan Cadieux about the American team. "We know their fighting spirit. But we will concentrate on ourselves."
