The 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver provided the backdrop for the most watched ice hockey tournament in history.

The men’s gold medal game between the United States and Canada attracted a massive North American television audience, making it the most-viewed hockey game in the United States in 30 years and the most-viewed show of any kind in Canadian history. The Olympics also served as a defining moment for US college hockey. Three-quarters of the member of the US team (17 of 23 players) played NCAA hockey

The Directorate Awards, as selected by the International Ice Hockey Federation, heralded a clean sweep for NCAA college hockey, with Ryan Miller (USA – Michigan State) being named Best Goalie, Brian Rafalski (USA – University of Wisconsin), Best Defenseman and Jonathan Toews (Canada – University of North Dakota) Best Forward.

In addition, the All-Tournament Team was dominated by college players, including: MVP Ryan Miller (Goalie), Brian Rafalski (Defense), Jonathan Toews (Forward), and Zach Parise (Forward; USA - University of North Dakota). They were joined on the team by Shea Webber (Defense; Canada) and Pavel Demitra (Forward; Slovakia).

Finally, in terms of statistical leaders from the Men’s Ice Hockey tournament, college players predominated:

Ryan Suter (Wisconsin) ranked 1st in plus/minus (+9).

Ryan Kesler (Ohio State) and Joe Pavelski (Wisconsin) ranked 2nd and 3rd in faceoffs won.

Zach Parise (North Dakota) and Brian Rafalski (Wisconsin) tied for 3rd in total points (8).

Parise and Rafalski tied for 3rd in goals (4).

Rafalski was tops among defensemen in points (8).

Ryan Miller (Michigan State) was tops in GAA (1.35) and save percentage (.946).