Ellen Hughes, the mother of Quinn and Jack Hughes, described the recent success of Team USA’s men’s and women’s hockey teams at the 2026 Winter Olympics as “surreal.” In addition to being the parent of three NHL players, Hughes works as a player development coach for Team USA’s women’s hockey team.
Following both teams’ gold medal victories, Hughes addressed a controversy surrounding the State of the Union invitations. During his address, President Donald Trump stated that he would “have to bring the women’s team” while extending a warmer invitation to the men’s team.
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The women’s team declined the invitation to attend the speech scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 24. Speaking on the Today show that same day, Hughes emphasized that the focus should remain on national unity.
“At the end of the day, it’s just about the country,” Hughes said. “These players, both the men and women, can bring so much unity to a group and to a country. People who may not normally watch hockey, as well as those with differing political views, all came together to support the teams. That’s what both teams care about.”
Hughes also highlighted the strong bond between the athletes.
“If you could see what we see from the inside — the men and women sharing spaces, supporting each other, and celebrating one another’s achievements — that’s what it’s all about,” she explained. “There are many things they cannot control, but they care about humanity, unity, and representing their country.”
After Team USA’s men’s team secured the gold medal with an overtime victory against Team Canada on Sunday, Feb. 22, President Trump invited the players to attend the State of the Union and visit the White House during a phone call from the locker room. He joked that he would also need to invite the women’s team.
“I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team,” Trump said.
On Monday, the women’s team declined the invitation.
A spokesperson for USA Hockey stated that the athletes were grateful for the recognition but were unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts, including academic and professional commitments following the Games. The spokesperson added that the players were honored to be included and appreciated the acknowledgment.
