Larsen Rink Will Add Name Of Olympic Hockey Hero Mike Eruzione to Facility

Mike Eruzione, captain of the 1980 gold medal-winning United States hockey team, accepted a very special honor during an event celebrating Winthrop hockey Saturday night at St. John’s the Evangelist Hall.

Winthrop High hockey coach Dale Dunbar announced that the Lawrence N. Larsen Rink on Pauline Street would now be known as the Lawrence Larsen Rink at the Mike Eruzione Center.

“The name of the rink will be the Larsen Rink at the Mike Eruzione Center,” Dunbar said.

Larry “Huck” Larsen, son of the late Lawrence N. Larsen, said, “I know my dad would be very, very pleased sharing the namesake with Michael. My dad was very fond of Michael. He followed his career to BU and his time at the Olympics. My dad was just very proud of Michael and I think he would be thrilled to see what we’re doing here.”

The large crowd gave Eruzione a standing ovation. Several members of the Eruzione family, including Mike’s wife, Donna, and their three children, LeighAnn, Michael Jr., and Paul, were in attendance.

“I thank the Larsen family,” said Eruzione. “I want you to know how much I loved your dad and how important he was to me. I’m speechless. It is a special honor. It’s amazing to have something like this happen in your life. I’ve had a lot of amazing things happen in my life. Who thought something like this would take place. Thank you very much. It’s humbling and a great honor.”