WASHINGTON — Several members of the United States men’s national ice hockey team will not attend the traditional White House celebration following their Olympic gold-medal victory, citing scheduling conflicts, personal reasons and political differences.

The visit, a long-standing tradition honoring championship teams, was scheduled after Team USA’s dramatic win over Canada at the Winter Olympic Games. The ceremony is expected to be hosted by Donald Trump.

Players Opting Out

While most of the roster is expected to attend, multiple players have indicated they will skip the event.

• One veteran defenseman cited prior family commitments and offseason obligations.

• A star forward confirmed through his agent that he had “personal reasons” for declining.

• Another player referenced previously scheduled NHL training activities as the primary conflict.

At least one player, according to sources familiar with the team’s internal discussions, expressed discomfort with the political climate and chose not to participate in what he described as a “personal decision.”

None of the players who are declining have publicly criticized the White House directly.

A Tradition With Tensions

Championship teams visiting the White House has long been viewed as a ceremonial, nonpartisan honor. However, in recent years, such visits have occasionally become politically sensitive, with athletes in multiple sports opting out for personal or ideological reasons.

Team officials emphasized that attendance is voluntary and that the organization respects individual decisions.

“The focus remains on celebrating an extraordinary Olympic achievement,” a USA Hockey spokesperson said.

Team Reaction

Coaches and team leaders downplayed any suggestion of division within the locker room, noting that players were free to make their own choices.

The gold-medal victory marked one of the most significant moments for U.S. men’s hockey in recent decades, drawing record television ratings and reigniting national interest in the sport.

Despite the absences, the White House ceremony is expected to proceed with the majority of the roster in attendance, honoring a championship run that captivated fans across the country.