Wisconsin Biathlete Eyes First-Ever US Olympic Medal

A kid who grew up hunting and cross-country skiing in Wisconsin is now on the verge of making Olympic history.

Paul Schommer from Appleton will compete in biathlon at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. The sport combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, two skills that felt natural for someone raised in America's heartland.

"It's just something that connects me back to my upbringing," Schommer said. "There's a lot of things that make Wisconsin Wisconsin that helped me become who I am."

Schommer spent seven years mastering the unusual sport at places like the Ariens Nordic Center in Brillion, Wisconsin. He made his first Olympic team in 2022 for Beijing, but the pandemic kept his family and friends from watching in person.

That disappointment fueled his determination. Schommer trained harder, knowing 2026 would be different with full crowds cheering from the stands.

The goal isn't just personal glory. Team USA has never won an Olympic medal in biathlon, despite the sport's popularity in Europe. Schommer and his teammates are chasing a breakthrough that's been decades in the making.

"What's really important in biathlon is you have to be a fast cross-country skier," Schommer explained. "If you're not fast on skis, it really doesn't matter how good of a shooter you are."

The combination requires intense focus. Athletes race at maximum heart rate on skis, then must calm their bodies instantly to hit targets with precision. Miss a shot, and you add penalty time that can cost you the race.

Why This Inspires

Schommer's journey proves that world-class athletes can emerge from unexpected places. While most biathletes come from Alpine regions with deep winter sports traditions, this Wisconsin native found his path through hunting trips and high school ski teams.

His story also highlights the power of persistence. After a challenging Olympic debut during the pandemic, he could have walked away disappointed. Instead, he's returning stronger and more determined to share the experience with the people who helped him get there.

"To be part of that in any capacity, whether it's being a part of a relay team that can win a medal or even seeing one of my teammates win a medal, would be incredible," Schommer said. "It'd be history in the making."

The 2026 Winter Olympics begin in February, and America will be watching one of its own chase a medal that's never been won.