Shani Davis has been named the Head Coach of the USA Speed Skating Distance Program, bringing his extensive experience as one of the sport’s most accomplished athletes to the coaching staff for the upcoming season.
Source: ISU, International Skating Union
Davis, a four-time Olympian and historic figure in speed skating, will lead the USA distance program alongside returning Head Coach Ryan Shimabukuro. Throughout his competitive career, Davis achieved milestones such as winning both the World Allround and World Sprint titles, a feat only matched by Eric Heiden. He is also the only male speed skater to have successfully defended his Olympic 1000m title, earning two gold and two silver Olympic medals in total.
Following his retirement in 2018, Davis transitioned to coaching and mentoring upcoming athletes, including a period mentoring junior skater Jordan Stolz. Davis expressed a desire to give back to the sport by inspiring and guiding the next generation of skaters. He emphasized his commitment to working with the US Speedskating team to nurture talented athletes over the coming years.
Davis’ appointment reflects the USA Speedskating organization’s focus on leveraging experienced athletes to develop competitive programs for future events and Olympic cycles.
