CEO of Company with Close Ties to Hockey Says He Is ‘Deeply Disappointed’ USA Women’s Team Checked Trump’s Offer to Visit WH

James Bouchard, Founder and Executive Chairman of Esmark Inc. issued the following statement this week in response to the The U.S. Women’s National Hockey Team decision to decline an invitation from Trump to attend his State of the Union address, citing scheduling conflicts due to professional and academic commitments.”:

“I am proud of the U.S.A. Women’s National Hockey Team for their stellar performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Esmark has supported youth athletics for decades, including hockey programs that help families manage the high costs of participating in the sport.

However, I’m deeply disappointed in the team for declining President Trump’s personal invitation to meet with him in Washington in connection with tonight’s State of the Union address. Moments of national recognition matter—especially for young players at home watching and wondering what is possible for them.

At Esmark, we want to ensure our support aligns with our values and delivers meaningful outcomes for the communities we serve, and we’ll be evaluating our sports philanthropy recipients.”

The company is an active corporate citizen in the communities it serves, having committed more than $10 million in philanthropic support of a wide range of humanitarian, education, family wellness and youth sports programs in Pennsylvania, Illinois and internationally.

Esmark and Bouchard’s Historical Investments in Hockey:

• Pittsburgh Stars (Formerly known as Esmark Stars): sponsored the Tier I AAA Hockey Club, under the North Hills Amateur Hockey Association (NHAHA) umbrella, from 2013-2023
• Esmark All-Americans: honors top U.S. high school student athletes for excellence in sports, academics and community services. Provides financial support and connections to college coaches.
• Quaker Valley School District Youth Hockey: Esmark and Bouchard are financial supporters of the program. Bouchard was inducted into the QV sports hall of fame in 2015.
• HK Esmark Košice: In January 2026, Esmark announced it is the team sponsor and co-owner of HK Esmark Košice in Slovakia.
• Johnstown Tomahawks: Esmark acquired the NAHL franchise in 2012 and relocated it from Alaska to Pennsylvania. Esmark sold its majority ownership in 2023.”