Husband and Wife Doctors Selected to Lead Canadian Olympic Hockey Medical Teams
Two prominent Canadian physicians are set to make history at the upcoming Winter Games, Dr. Laura Bennion and Dr. Ian Auld will serve as lead doctors for the women's and men's Olympic hockey teams, this husband and wife duo brings a unique dynamic to the high-pressure environment of international competition in Milano-Cortina.
Decades of Sports Medicine Experience Precedes Selection
The couple shares a deep connection to both medicine and ice hockey, they originally met while attending medical school at the University of British Columbia, their relationship blossomed during residency in Calgary and led to marriage in 2003. Dr. Auld has spent over two decades working with Hockey Canada, his resume includes serving as medical director for the Calgary Flames, meanwhile Dr. Bennion brings extensive expertise in family practice and sports medicine. She previously worked with the Calgary Inferno, she has also supported national women's programs behind the scenes for previous Olympic cycles, this background ensures both teams receive care from highly seasoned professionals.
Medical Duo Appointed to Key Roles for 2026 Games
Officials have confirmed these appointments mark a rare occurrence in elite sports, Dr. Auld will oversee medical care for the men's squad while Dr. Bennion leads the women's team. This assignment represents the first time the couple will attend the same Olympic Games in official capacities, they have described the opportunity as very unique. Their selection underscores a commitment to providing top-tier care for Canadian athletes, the roles require managing physical health and injury prevention during the intense two-week tournament.
Dr. Auld noted the statistical improbability of such an arrangement, both physicians have spent years working at a distance to support national programs, their combined presence in Italy signifies a convergence of their professional paths. The doctors must manage everything from routine illnesses to potential on-ice trauma, their familiarity with the Hockey Canada system allows for seamless integration with coaching staff and trainers.
Athletes Gain Advantage from Collaborative Medical Support
The personal bond between these lead physicians offers tangible benefits for the hockey programs, the doctors can rely on each other for immediate professional consultation and emotional support. Dr. Auld emphasized the value of having a trusted partner nearby for complex medical questions, this built-in support system aids in decision-making under pressure. The collaboration may foster stronger communication between the men's and women's medical staffs, shared best practices could improve overall player safety and recovery strategies throughout the tournament.
The 2026 Winter Olympics begin in February, the medical teams are now finalizing preparations to ensure athlete health remains a priority, Hockey Canada continues to rely on experienced professionals to maintain its gold-standard reputation on the world stage.
