Several hundred United States athletes have been preparing themselves that, for many, is the pinnacle of their dreams, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.   For sure, their will be many newcomers among the dozens of likely Olympic veterans, each seeking to reach personal bests, world records, or strong team finishes. 

Team USA seeks to better its somewhat disappointing performance in the Torino 2006.  The team's 25 podium finishes, a drop from the 34 medals won in Salt Lake City, left them in second - behind a tough German contingent.  Boosted by the rad performances by the Snowboarders (7 medals) and the world-record setting Speed skaters (Long Track: 7, Short Track: 3), the U.S. team reveled in its achievements.   Also, Figure Skating, with its two silver medal winners, buffeted the U.S. success.  And two of  the teams, Women’s Ice Hockey and Men’s Curling, earned well-deserved bronzes!

In contrast, the Alpine Skiing and the Sledding Teams (luge, bobsled, and skeleton) did not meet pre-Olympic expectations.   Rolling into the Olympics after World Cup successes, it was hoped that far more than three medals would have been won across the 18 events.  The Alpine organization optimistically broadcasted a goal of eight medals – only to be upended by disappointing falls and disqualifications on albeit treacherous slopes.

For more details about the status of the U.S. Olympic Team:  upcoming trials, athetes that have already qualified etc., check out USA Team Selection.