Kerry Weiland

Kerry Weiland’s journey from high school hockey star to Olympic silver medalist is a testament to her talent, determination, and trailblazing spirit. A standout athlete at Palmer High School, Kerry made history as one of the first women to compete on a boys’ varsity hockey team in Alaska. Her immense skill on the ice earned her a place on the boys’ varsity team for all four years, where she made an indelible impact on her team and her community.

As a high school athlete, Kerry was not only a fierce competitor but a trailblazer for young women in Alaska hockey. In a time when opportunities for female hockey players were limited, Kerry excelled on the ice and became the first Alaskan woman to earn First Team All-Region honors in Alaska prep hockey history. Her prowess as a defender was recognized early, leading to a full scholarship to the University of Wisconsin, where she continued to shine. She was a key contributor to the Wisconsin Badgers women’s hockey team, leading the defense and earning multiple accolades, including an All-American First Team selection in 2002.

Kerry’s high school years set the stage for an extraordinary career, including playing for Team USA and achieving international success. She narrowly missed out on the 2006 Olympics, but Kerry’s determination didn’t falter. Instead, she spent the next few years competing professionally in both Europe and North America, as well as winning gold in the International Inline Roller Hockey Championships. Her perseverance culminated in her selection to the 2010 U.S. Women’s Olympic Hockey Team, where she helped bring home a silver medal from the Vancouver Winter Games.

Beyond her athletic achievements, Kerry’s legacy in Alaska is felt through her ongoing connection to her community. After the Olympics, she toured the state, sharing her story and her medal with Alaskans of all ages. Kerry’s humility and commitment to her roots were evident as she worked to give back to her community, including helping fund computers for her elementary school.

“Kerry was always respectful and quiet, but on the ice, she wasn’t afraid of anything,” said childhood friend Scotty Gomez, highlighting her fearless nature on the rink. “She was the real deal.”

Today, Kerry continues to inspire the next generation of hockey players through her work as an instructor, ensuring that her legacy as a pioneer and champion lives on in the hearts of Alaska’s young athletes.

Kerry Weiland’s induction into the Alaska High School Sports Hall of Fame honors her not only for her athletic achievements but for the profound impact she’s had on the sports community, both in Alaska and beyond.