Jordan Stolz is Team USA’s breakout speed skating star at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, competing in four individual events after dominating the world stage the past three seasons. As he chases medals in the 500m, 1000m, 1500m and mass start, his parents and sister are in Italy cheering him on. Here’s what you need to know.
Update February 14, 2026: Jordan Stolz has now won gold in both the 500m and 1000m and set new Olympic records in both.
1. Jordan Stolz’s Parents Put Him on Skates at Age 5
Stolz’s parents, Dirk Stolz and Jane Stolz, supported his skating dreams from the beginning. Growing up in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, Jordan first practiced on the frozen lake near their home.
Jane admitted she initially worried about safety. “I was always afraid they could drown,” she told NBC News. “So they kept the life jackets on until he drilled a hole and we could see it was several feet thick. After that I finally felt okay, and in the next couple of days they were able to take them off.“
Jordan began skating at 5, and both parents adjusted their schedules to drive him to the Pettit National Ice Center. According to USA Today, Jane worked days as a dental hygienist while Dirk worked nights with the Washington County Sheriff’s Department so one parent could always be available.
2. Dirk Stolz Moved From Germany & Has an Athletic Background
Dirk moved from Germany to the United States at age 9. According to Silent Sports magazine, he showed promise as a downhill skier before shifting to track and field in Wisconsin.
Jane described her husband as naturally athletic but said she did not compete in sports herself. Still, both parents learned to skate alongside their children after watching the 2010 and 2012 Winter Olympics.
“It was intimidating getting those huge, big blades on,” Jane said. “It was very awkward, but we loved it from the start; you go so fast.”
Dirk and Jane also support their family through taxidermy work, helping to cover Jordan’s training and travel expenses as he rises.
3. Stolz’s Sister Hannah Is a Champion in Her Own Field
Jordan’s older sister, Hannah Stolz, also grew up speed skating before pursuing taxidermy. She now runs Windy Hills Waterfowl in Wisconsin, which houses 85 bird species.
Hannah won the National Taxidermy Championships in 2023 and placed third in the world in the non-game bird division at the 2024 World Taxidermy Championships.
Jordan credits his family dynamic for keeping him grounded. “I’m really happy that they’ll get to enjoy it,” he told People in January 2026 about having his family in Milan. “That’ll make me feel good going into the races.”
4. Jordan Stolz’s Family Missed Beijing But Is in Milan
Stolz made his Olympic debut in Beijing in 2022 at age 17, but his parents could not attend due to COVID-19 restrictions. Jane recalled how difficult that was.
“It was very tough not being there,” she told Silent Sports magazine, explaining that Jordan texted her about struggling to find the right food and protein.
Now, four years later, Dirk, Jane and Hannah are all in Italy for the 2026 Games. Jordan said having them present makes a difference. “A lot of their friends too, and some family members, they’ll all be there,” he said.
5. Jordan Stolz’s Parents’ Support Keeps Him Grounded
Despite his dominance — including world titles in the 500m, 1000m and 1500m in 2023 and 2024 — Stolz has said he does not feel external pressure from his family.
Jane continues to help manage his schedule when he competes at home. “I try to make sure Jordan is eating right and has everything he needs,” she said. “It gets busy.”
Jordan Stolz’s Parents & Family: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know