Leah Poulos-Mueller

Leah Jean Poulos-Mueller (born October 5, 1951) is an American retired speed skater. She competed at the 1972, 1976, and 1980 Winter Olympics. She won two silver medals in 1980 and one silver medal in 1976.

Her career lasted 12 years, and she was part of three Olympic teams. During this time, she earned many medals and titles in Olympic, world, and international speed skating events.

After she stopped competing, Leah had a long and successful career in law as a civil litigator. Her achievements in speed skating made her a well-known figure in the sport, and her work in law continued to help many people.

Early life and education

Leah Poulos grew up in Northbrook, Illinois. She joined the Northbrook Speedskating Club, which was very important for Olympic skaters. Many skaters from this club won medals at the Olympic Games.

Her parents helped her with training and travel when she started skating at seven years old.

Speedskating career

Leah Poulos-Mueller was a talented speed skater who raced in many big events. She began in 1970 at the World Sprint Speed Skating Championships and won a silver medal in the 500 meter race. She competed in the Winter Olympics in 1972, 1976, and 1980.

At the 1976 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, she placed 6th in the 1500 m, 4th in the 500 m, and won a silver medal in the 1000 m. In 1980, she won silver medals in both the 500 m and 1000 m races. During her career, she won many medals in world championships and was one of the best skaters in the world.

Hall of Fame

Leah Poulos-Mueller was honored by being added to special groups that celebrate great athletes.

Legal career

Leah Poulos-Mueller graduated with a law degree from Marquette University Law School. She is now a practicing attorney and the Senior Partner of Poulos-Mueller Attorneys in Milwaukee. Her work focuses on constitutional rights, especially in family and elder law.

She was often invited to the White House by the United States President. She helped start important talks about Title IX, which gave more chances for women and girls to play sports.

Personal life

Leah Poulos took a break from skating and married Peter Mueller in September 1977. Peter won a gold medal at the 1976 Winter Olympics. Leah returned to skating three years later for the 1980 Winter Olympics. After winning her medals, she stopped competing to support her family. While she was an Olympian, she worked part-time for Coca-Cola. She later became the executive director of the United States International Speed Skating Association. She is a mother of two.