Josh Pauls
PARA ICE HOCKEY
Paralympic medals: 4 Gold
2026 Outlook: Josh Pauls enters the Milan–Cortina Games as one of the most accomplished and influential figures in U.S. para ice hockey history, pairing elite performance with steady leadership. A longtime captain and emotional anchor for Team USA, Pauls’ experience, competitive fire, and ability to elevate those around him continue to set the tone as the program looks to its most seasoned voices on the ice.
Need to know:
• Four-time Paralympian
• At age 17, Pauls became the youngest member of the U.S. national sled-hockey team when he won his first Paralympic gold in Vancouver (2010), marking the start of a decorated career.
• Beyond his record-breaking four golds, Pauls has been renowned for his leadership—serving as Team USA’s captain—and nicknamed “Spuds” partly because he faces a Mr. Potatohead figure towards the opponent’s locker room before every game.Â
Personal:
Age: 32
Hometown: Green Brook, NJÂ
Limb difference / disability: Bilateral lower-limb amputee
Josh pauls
PARA ICE HOCKEY
Paralympic medals: 4 Gold
2026 Outlook: Josh Pauls enters the Milan–Cortina Games as one of the most accomplished and influential figures in U.S. para ice hockey history, pairing elite performance with steady leadership. A longtime captain and emotional anchor for Team USA, Pauls’ experience, competitive fire, and ability to elevate those around him continue to set the tone as the program looks to its most seasoned voices on the ice.
Need to know:
• Four-time Paralympian
• At age 17, Pauls became the youngest member of the U.S. national sled-hockey team when he won his first Paralympic gold in Vancouver (2010), marking the start of a decorated career.
• Beyond his record-breaking four golds, Pauls has been renowned for his leadership—serving as Team USA’s captain—and nicknamed “Spuds” partly because he faces a Mr. Potatohead figure towards the opponent’s locker room before every game.
Personal:
Age: 32
Hometown: Green Brook, NJÂ
Limb difference / disability: Bilateral lower-limb amputeeÂ
