A family gathers around a 19-year-old American women’s hockey player

CHICAGO (NewsNation Now) — The USA women’s hockey team lost to Canada 4-2 in Beijing in the final game of the first round. The two teams are expected to meet again in the gold medal game. Victory or defeat, the families of the women’s team cheer them on from home.

Abbey Murphy is a forward for the United States Women’s Olympic Hockey Team. The 19-year-old is the second youngest member of the squad.

“It was an amazing experience; almost surreal. We’re excited, ecstatic and still can’t believe she’s here,” her mom, Lynne Murphy, said on “Morning in America.”

Her family says she has always loved sports.

“All I was talking about was Olympic girls and now she’s playing with them as teammates, friends,” her father Ed Murphy said.

They hosted viewing parties in the Chicagoland area for family and friends.

We are so touched by all the support everyone gives every time we watch a game,” Lynne said. “We always knew we had a big community, a big neighborhood. We are blessed for sure.

Abbey’s parents say she is enjoying her experience in China and is excited for the rest of the Games.