Beloved figure skating coach Frank Carroll, who trained Michelle Kwan, passes at 85

Renowned coach Frank Carroll, known for his work with Olympic figure skaters such as Michelle Kwan and Evan Lysacek, passed away at the age of 85 after a battle with cancer.

The organization U.S. Figure Skating expressed their condolences, stating, “U.S. Figure Skating mourns the loss of coaching legend Frank Carroll. A member of the World and U.S. Figure Skating Halls of Fame, Frank was instrumental in the careers of numerous Olympic and World champions and many future Hall of Famers.”

Starting his career with junior bronze medal wins at the 1959 and 1960 U.S. Championships, Carroll later transitioned into coaching full-time after performing at the professional level with Ice Follies.

Throughout his 60-year coaching career, Carroll mentored numerous successful athletes, including Olympic and World champions. Some of his notable students include Linda Fratianna, Timothy Goebel, and Michelle Kwan.

Michelle Kwan expressed her gratitude for Carroll’s guidance, saying, “For over 10 years Frank was by my side — coaching and mentoring me to be the best skater and person that I can be. He bestowed upon me a wealth of knowledge and history of the sport he loved so much.” Kwan also highlighted Carroll’s impact on the lives of many skaters, including her own.

Recognized for his contributions to the sport, Carroll was inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame in 1996 and the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame in 2007. He also became the first figure skating coach to be named Olympic Coach of the Year in 1997.

After retiring from coaching in 2018, 23 days after his 80th birthday, Carroll left behind a legacy that continues to inspire and shape the world of figure skating.