Bio

Jim Craig is best known as the starting goalie for the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team, whose unforgettable "Miracle on Ice" win is celebrated as one of the greatest moments in sports history. Craig’s standout performance in goal was integral to the team's success, and one of the most iconic images of the Games is him wrapped in the American flag, searching the stands for his father to share the victory.

Before the Olympics, Jim was an All-American goalie at Boston University, where he led the team to an NCAA national championship. His exceptional skills on the ice earned him a place in the Boston

University Hall of Fame. Following the ‘Miracle’ win, Craig played professionally for three NHL teams, but his career was cut short by an injury while playing for the Minnesota North Stars. He is enshrined in multiple halls of fame, including the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame, the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame, and the International Ice Hockey Federation Hall of Fame.

After his hockey career, Jim successfully transitioned into the business world. He became a highly sought-after motivational speaker, sales leader, and corporate consultant. His remarkable ability to inspire and lead was recognized when he was inducted into the Sales Halls of Fame for two different companies, and he helped grow a sales territory from $300,000 to $50 million. Jim also served as Vice President of a promotional marketing agency, increasing its annual sales by 80% and growing its client base by 30% in just two years.

For over three decades, Jim has provided strategic direction to some of the world’s most prestigious companies, including Kellogg’s, Bayer, Deloitte, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, Procter & Gamble, and Disney. As the president and owner of Gold Medal Strategies, Jim has earned recognition as one of the top five team-building speakers in the United States. His work extends beyond motivational speeches to immersive corporate training programs that help organizations think differently and reach their full potential.

Jim is also the co-author of Gold Medal Strategies: Business Lessons from America's Miracle Team and We Win! Lessons on Life, Business & Building Your Own Miracle Team. He serves on the board of the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and has been a spokesman for the W.L. Gore Ultimate SAAAVE Campaign since 2007. In 2023, he received the Olympus Within Leadership Award for his ongoing impact on leaders across various fields.

Jim’s induction into the NJCAA Hall of Fame is a testament to his enduring legacy as an athlete, leader, and motivator. His commitment to excellence, both on the ice and in business, continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams and achieve success with integrity.