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, winning two silver medals in 1980 and one in 1976. Throughout her career, which lasted 12 years and included three Olympic teams, she earned more than 65 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 notable figure in the sport, and her work in law continued to influence many people.

Early life and education

Leah Poulos grew up in Northbrook, Illinois, where she joined the Northbrook Speedskating Club. This club was very important for many Olympic skaters and was known as the "Speedskating Capital of the World." Over twenty skaters from this club went to the Olympic Games and won medals.

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

Speedskating career

Leah Poulos-Mueller was a talented speed skater who competed in many big races. She started in 1970 at the World Sprint Speed Skating Championships and won a silver medal in the 500 meter race. She went to 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, at the Winter Olympics, she won silver medals in both the 500 m and 1000 m races. Throughout 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 several 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 as a guest 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

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