Illinois Athletes Shine at 2026 Winter Olympics

2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years in recent memory. Not only will the United States be celebrating America’s 250th birthday, but the Winter Olympics will also take place in Milan–Cortina this February. Even more exciting, several Illinois athletes will be representing our country on the world stage.

Illinois Athletes at the 2026 Winter Olympics

The Winter Olympics are one of the major sporting events that bring countries together. Whether you enjoy ice skating, skiing, bobsledding, hockey, or curling, the Winter Games are among the biggest international sporting events, held every four years.

Jesse Compher and Kendall Coyne Schofield: Hockey Stars

Illinois will be represented by three athletes at this year’s Winter Games. Two female hockey players, Jesse Compher and Kendall Coyne Schofield, will compete on the U.S. Women’s Hockey Team. Both athletes play on the U.S. Women’s National Team and in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL).

Compher is a forward, an NCAA champion, and a 2022 Olympic silver medalist. Schofield will serve as captain of Team USA and has both an Olympic silver (2014 & 2022 Olympics) and gold (2018 Olympics) medal. She also made history in 2019 as the first woman to compete in the NHL All-Star Skills Competition.

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Ethan Cepuran: Long-Track Speed Skater

Also competing is Illinois athlete Ethan Cepuran in the long-track speed skating events. This will be Cepuran’s second appearance at the Winter Olympics. He previously competed in the same events at the 2022 Games, where he won a bronze medal.

So as you’re watching this year’s competitions, whether it’s skating, hockey, or any other event, be sure to cheer loudly for Team USA. The 2026 Winter Olympics kick off with the Opening Ceremony on February 6 on NBC and Peacock, with competition beginning earlier on February 4, including curling and mixed doubles.