While cheering for the Team USA men’s hockey team during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, I couldn’t help but notice the unique bass-themed goalie mask worn by Connor Hellebuyck. The custom-painted Pro’s Choice mask was made by EyeCandyAir and the art is crazy-cool: One side features a swooping bald eagle with a largemouth bass in its talons, while the other shows a jumping largemouth.

Hellebuyck, who plays in the NHL for the Winnipeg Jets, is an avid multi-species angler, often visiting Lake Winnipeg for walleyes and other area lakes for largemouth and smallmouth bass. Hellebuyck was born and raised in Commerce Township, Michigan.

It’s been a whirlwind week for Hellebuyck. His performance on February 22 against Canada in the gold medal game (2-1 overtime victory) was one of the best ever; he made 41 saves, a new Olympic record. He and his teammates were then invited to Washington D.C. by President Donald Trump. In addition to touring the White House, the team attended the State of the Union Address on February 24. Of course, the team received a tremendous standing ovation from everyone in attendance, and President Trump announced that Hellebuyck will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

FYI: The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor. Athletes such as Joe DiMaggio, Michael Jordan and Babe Ruth are among the 671 individuals who have received it, and Hellebuyck will be the first hockey player.

Conner’s older brother Chris is also an avid angler. In fact, Chris has fished in more than two dozen B.A.S.S. tournaments since his college hockey days at Oakland University. As Conner was recently competing for Olympic gold in Italy, Chris was competing back in Texas at the Bassmaster Open on Sam Rayburn Reservoir, where he finished in 23rd place.

To learn more about Conner’s love of fishing — including ice fishing — check out the 11-minute YouTube video below. Note: You’ll hear the guys talk about the Vezina Trophy. This is the NHL’s top goalie award, and it’s awarded annually to the goalie voted best at their position by the league’s 32 general managers. Hellebuyck won the award in both 2024 and 2025.

Congrats to Hellebuyck and Team USA (men’s and women’s) on winning the gold!