Mark Wells, a former forward for the 1980 gold medal-winning U.S. Olympic hockey team, died on May 18 at the age of 66. His death was confirmed by his alma mater, Bowling Green State University, and USA Hockey. Wells was a prominent figure in the hockey community, and he was known for his part in the Miracle on Ice.
Born in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, Wells played college hockey at Bowling Green from 1975 to 1979. His path to the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid wasn’t easy. Four months before the games, Wells sustained a hairline fracture in his ankle. Despite this, he was the last player chosen by head coach Herb Brooks for the final roster.
In the Olympics, Wells played a vital role as a defensive center, more focused on blocking opponents than scoring goals. He played in all seven games, scoring two goals and providing one assist, contributing significantly to the team’s historic win over the Soviet Union. This victory, forming part of the renowned Miracle on Ice, is still one of the most remembered events in sports history.
Mike Eruzione, the captain of the 1980 Olympic team, expressed his sorrow on X: “It’s a sad day for our 1980 Olympic team. Yesterday, we lost Number 15, Mark Wells. He was a fantastic teammate and an excellent hockey player. We will miss him dearly.”
After the Olympics, Wells’ journey was fraught with difficulties. He briefly embarked on a professional career, playing nine games with the Nova Scotia Voyageurs, the Montreal Canadiens’ top farm team. Later, he was traded to the Detroit Red Wings, but he never played in the NHL and moved around the minor leagues before retiring in 1982.
Wells was forced into early retirement due to severe back problems caused by a rare spinal cord disease. This led to multiple surgeries and hefty medical bills. To cope with these expenses, Wells sold his Olympic gold medal for about $40,000, a fraction of the $310,700 it later fetched at auction.
Despite these challenges, Wells remained an active member of his community. He attended local events, delivered motivational speeches, and was inducted into the Bowling Green State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. In 2014, his hometown of St. Clair Shores named a rink in the Civic Arena after him.
The announcement of Wells’ death on his official Facebook page read: “He was far more than just an Olympic hero or ‘The Commish.’ He was a friend to everyone he encountered and simply a great man.” Wells’ story is one of resilience, inspiring others despite dealing with financial struggles, health issues, and the emotional weight of his condition.
USA Hockey honored Wells with a statement: “A stick salute to Mark Wells, who helped the U.S. win gold at the 1980 Olympic Winter Games. The Detroit native passed away this weekend, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. His influence on the sport will be enduring and felt for generations.
Wells’ contribution to the 1980 team’s success and his efforts to share his story of overcoming adversity have left a lasting impression in the hockey world. His family and loved ones, who have asked for privacy during this time of mourning, survive him.