COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee announced today that Dave Ogrean is the recipient of the 2023 Olympic & Paralympic Torch Award, in recognition of his exemplary service and significant contributions to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic movements. This prestigious award highlights Ogrean’s longstanding commitment to advancing the Olympic and Paralympic ideals throughout the United States.
Dave Ogrean has served on the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum’s board since 2015. He retired in 2017 after an accomplished 18-year tenure as the Executive Director of USA Hockey. Throughout his distinguished career, Ogrean played a pivotal role in several key initiatives, including establishing USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, introducing the American Development Model for age-appropriate training, and his involvement with the Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame. His professional journey included roles at ESPN, the College Football Association, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation, and USA Football.
The Olympic & Paralympic Torch Award is an esteemed recognition presented annually to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding service and dedication to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic movements. Established in 1965, this award honors individuals who have made a significant and enduring impact on these movements in the United States. It is presented to those who have tirelessly worked to promote the Olympic and Paralympic ideals across the nation, regardless of whether their contributions coincided with the award year.
About the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum offers an immersive and universally accessible look into the journey of Team USA’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Through interactive exhibits, innovative displays and a comprehensive artifact collection, the Museum instills the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect, as well as the Paralympic values of determination, equality, inspiration and courage in every visitor.
It honors yesterday’s legends with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame while inspiring tomorrow’s legends through entertaining activities and events. The USOPM is more than a museum but a life-changing experience that will continue to educate and inspire the public to take part for generations to come.
