Olympic Champion Returns Home to Webster

Students and staff at Spry Middle School welcomed home Olympic gold medalist Haley Winn on June 10 as the Webster native returned to her alma mater to share her journey from local student to Olympic champion.

Haley attended Spry Middle School before transferring to Bishop Kearney High School to pursue elite hockey opportunities. Earlier this year, she helped Team USA capture a gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy.

Her return to Spry on June 10 turned professional teaching staff and students alike into fans in awe. Her former teachers reconnected, presenting her with treasures such as a photo of her and a group of friends in seventh grade dressed as Greasers during their reading unit on The Outsiders. And a story she wrote in eighth grade English about Olympic great Jessie Owens. She signed autographs, posed for photos and gave students and staff the rare opportunity to hold her Olympic gold medal. Many were surprised by the medal's weight, with "It's heavy!" becoming a common reaction throughout the visit.
 

Haley's appearance on the Spry Morning Show was a full-circle moment. As a student, she served as an anchor on the program. This time, she was the guest. Eighth-grader Nolan H. interviewed her about balancing life beyond hockey, the support of her family, her Olympic experience, and her professional career. The 22-year-old shared her journey from backyard hockey with her older brothers to professional athlete. Haley currently plays defense for the Boston Fleet and has been nominated for both Defender of the Year and Rookie of the Year honors. (The winner will be announced June 16.)
 
Throughout her visit, Haley emphasized the importance of hard work, perseverance, and family support. Her return served as a powerful reminder to students that big dreams can begin in Webster classrooms and lead to opportunities on the world's biggest stage.