The game was Ruggiero’s and Chu’s last shot to go out in 2004 on a winning note. Instead, the second place finish stands rank and file with a whirlwind of emotions that has rounded out the year, especially for Ruggiero.

“It’s been an emotional roller coaster for sure, winning on Friday, getting the Kazmaier the next day, losing the final, and coming out here and getting these exciting wins,” Ruggiero said following Team USA’s victory over Canada earlier in the tournament. “My emotions are all over the place.”

Whatever conflicting feelings she experienced, Ruggiero never let it show on the ice. Earlier in the tournament, US coach Ben Smith commented on the experience and consistency that comes with having Ruggiero alongside a relatively inexperienced group of blueliners.

“In our defense you can see we have five new faces, and quite obviously having that No. 4 is a cornerstone,” Smith said, alluding to Ruggiero by the number on her jersey. “Having that No. 4 is a benefit to the other five and a benefit to one and all. I’m not trading her.”

Botterill—who finished as the tournament’s top scorer with 12 points—made the all-tournament team along with Ruggiero and Darwitz.

—Staff writer John R. Hein can be reached at hein@fas.harvard.edu.