Herb Brooks was an American ice hockey coach and player, best known for leading the United States men's national team to victory in the 1980 Winter Olympics. His team, often referred to as the "Miracle on Ice," defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union team, a moment that became iconic in sports history. Born on August 5, 1937, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Brooks played college hockey at the University of Minnesota before transitioning to coaching. He emphasized teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic, which became hallmarks of his coaching style. Brooks later coached in the NHL and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006.