Former Olympian Pelletier Joins Stars Coaching Staff

The gold medalist figure skater brings his unique experiences and training to help develop Dallas players

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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David Pelletier, a 2002 Olympic gold medalist in pairs figure skating, has joined the Dallas Stars coaching staff as an assistant coach. Pelletier's background as a high-level athlete and his passion for hockey have prepared him well for this new role, where he will focus on player development, faceoff work, and providing in-game insights from the press box.

Why it matters

Pelletier's transition from elite figure skater to NHL coach is an unusual path, but his diverse experiences and disciplined approach could provide valuable perspectives to help the Stars improve. His ability to relate to players and break down complex skills could be a key asset as the team looks to take the next step.

The details

After winning Olympic gold with partner Jamie Salé, Pelletier worked his way up the coaching ranks, starting as a power skating coach with the Edmonton Oilers before being promoted to an assistant role. His attention to detail, commitment to preparation, and collaborative approach caught the eye of Stars head coach Glen Gulutzan, who brought Pelletier with him to Dallas. In his expanded role, Pelletier will work closely with players on faceoffs, run skating sessions, and provide in-game analysis from upstairs.

  • Pelletier won Olympic gold in pairs figure skating in 2002.
  • He was hired by the Edmonton Oilers as a skating coach in 2014.
  • Gulutzan was named head coach of the Dallas Stars in the summer of 2025.
  • Pelletier joined the Stars' coaching staff ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season.

The players

David Pelletier

A 51-year-old native of Sayabec, Quebec who won Olympic gold in pairs figure skating in 2002 with partner Jamie Salé. After retiring from competition, he transitioned into coaching, working his way up to become an assistant coach with the Dallas Stars.

Jamie Salé

Pelletier's partner in pairs figure skating, with whom he won Olympic gold in 2002.

Glen Gulutzan

The head coach of the Dallas Stars, who previously worked with Pelletier as an assistant coach in Edmonton and brought him to Dallas.

Dave Tippett

The former head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, who first recognized Pelletier's potential to contribute more than just as a skating coach.

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What they’re saying

“I just have a lot of trust in him. He helps us in so many different ways.”

— Glen Gulutzan, Head Coach, Dallas Stars (nhl.com)

“Tipp was the guy who said Dave could contribute more than he was. He wanted him in our meetings, he wanted him on the ice every day, and it grew from there. Tipp liked his take on the game and he liked his relationship with the players. He thought he had the thought process of a champion, just how you should think and compete at the highest level.”

— Glen Gulutzan, Head Coach, Dallas Stars (nhl.com)

What’s next

Pelletier will continue to work closely with Stars players, focusing on developing their skills and providing strategic insights from his unique perspective as a former elite athlete. His expanded role and growing influence within the organization will be closely watched as the team aims to take the next step in the standings.

The takeaway

Pelletier's transition from Olympic gold medalist to NHL assistant coach showcases the value of diverse experiences and a commitment to continuous learning. His ability to relate to players, break down complex skills, and provide a fresh perspective could be a key asset for the Stars as they look to elevate their performance and culture.