1. Yes some of us even own skates😁
2. I can't speak for others, but personally, seems like every day there is something else embarassing happening in this country.
The 4 nations game left a burn from the anthem booing to losing the game. Getting that W in the gold medal game was and is a big deal.
Fun Sidenote, jurisdiction allowed bars to open early for the game.
Also you are right, there is a lot of fair weather fans, but I think some Americans needed something to be proud of.