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Husband won't let security concerns prevent him from watching RMU grad go for gold

PITTSBURGH — Robert Morris grad Brianne McLaughlin was on the United States women’s hockey team in the 2010 Olympics when it won silver.

In 2014, McLaughlin wants to bring the gold medal home, and said she won’t be distracted by terror threats in Sochi.

Channel 11's Bill Phillips talked with McLaughlin's husband, Logan Bittle, about his safety concerns.

Bittle said despite the threats, he will be in the stands in Sochi cheering on his wife.

Bittle, an assistant coach with the Robert Morris women's hockey team, told Phillips (@WPXI_BPhillips) he's going to Russia for the second week of the games in hopes of seeing Brianne and her teammates capture gold.

“I’m looking forward to going. I think when you go over there, you have to travel safe,” Bittle said. “Travel smart and travel in groups of people that you trust and know. I think it’s going to be OK once you get inside the Olympics as long as you avoid the public area.”

Bittle also said he believes the athletes will be safe and protected, as much as the president would be.

He shared an idea for dressing safely.

“Canadian stuff I think is what I hear. So maybe I will borrow some stuff from the Canadians on the team to wear on the outside. Then when I get inside, I’ll throw my USA stuff on,” Bittle said.

Brianne McLaughlin played at Robert Morris University from 2006 to 2009 and established an NCAA record for saves with 3,809.

She still has a major impact on the program. Phillips spoke with current RMU Hockey players and coaches to find out just how big an impact.

If you're like Brianne and want to see all of Bill's story, check out the two videos we've posted.

https://twitter.com/BrianneMcL/status/428646043526651904

We’re just eight days from the first Olympic event, and women’s hockey starts two days after that. Look to Channel 11 and WPXI.com for complete coverage of the 2014 Winter Games.