The Saginaw Spirit have reason to celebrate.
Spirit captain Vince Trocheck and Team USA were victorious at the World Junior Hockey Championships in Russia, downing Sweden in the title game 3-1 to earn the gold medal.
Trocheck recorded a goal and an assist in the game.
Kitchener Rangers goalie John Gibson was the media’s selection as Most Valuable Player for the tournament.
Saginaw goalie Jake Paterson and Team Canada played host Russia in the bronze medal game and suffered a 6-5 setback.
Trocheck finished with three goals and three assists in seven games for USA and was +5.
Both Trocheck and Paterson are scheduled to be back playing for the Spirit on Wednesday, Jan. 9 against Plymouth.