Francis M. “Frank” Carroll, a legendary U.S. figure skating coach and former competitive skater, has passed away at the age of 85. Frank Carroll was a pivotal figure in the world of figure skating, guiding numerous Olympic and World champions, and shaping the careers of many future Hall of Famers. Among his most notable students were Linda Fratianne, Michelle Kwan, and Evan Lysacek, whom he coached to World Championships, with Lysacek winning Olympic gold in 2010.
Frank Carroll was born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts. His journey into the world of figure skating began in his early teenage years when a skating rink opened in his neighborhood. Captivated by the blend of artistry and athleticism, he started skating and quickly developed a passion for the sport. After completing his high school education, Frank attended the College of the Holy Cross, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in sociology in 1960.
During his college years, Frank’s dedication to skating grew stronger. He moved to Winchester, Massachusetts, where he spent weekends living with his coach, Maribel Vinson Owen, and her daughters. This arrangement allowed him to immerse himself fully in his training. His hard work paid off when he won the bronze medal at the junior level at the 1959 U.S. Championships and again at the 1960 U.S. Championships, finishing behind Douglas Ramsay.
Following his competitive skating career, Frank joined the Ice Follies, a professional touring ice show, where he performed until 1964. During this time, he also appeared in the background of several beach films, including “The Loved One,” showcasing his versatility and flair for performance. After leaving the Ice Follies, Frank decided to transition into coaching, initially on a part-time basis, before committing to it full-time.
Frank Carroll’s impact as a coach is profound and far-reaching. His coaching career began to take off when he started working with young skaters, honing their skills and helping them realize their potential. Over the years, he developed a reputation for his ability to nurture talent and guide skaters to the pinnacle of success.
Among his most distinguished students was Linda Fratianne, whom he coached to multiple World Championships. Frank’s coaching prowess continued to shine as he guided Michelle Kwan, one of the most celebrated figure skaters in history, to her World Championship victories. His expertise and mentorship were also instrumental in Evan Lysacek’s career, culminating in Lysacek’s gold medal win at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
Frank Carroll’s influence extended beyond his high-profile students. He coached a wide array of skaters, including Christopher Bowman, Timothy Goebel, Gracie Gold, Denis Ten, and many others. His commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire his skaters made him a beloved figure in the figure skating community.
Frank Carroll’s life was marked by his unwavering dedication to the sport of figure skating. After his time with the Ice Follies, he was accepted to law school at the University of San Francisco. However, his passion for the arts led him to pursue acting, and he appeared in the background of several beach films. Eventually, his love for skating drew him back, and he found his true calling as a coach.
Throughout his career, Frank remained deeply involved in the skating community. He was the head coach at the Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo, California, a position he held for many years. In 2011, he began coaching at a newly built rink in Cathedral City, California, allowing him to be closer to his home in Palm Springs, where he had lived since the 1980s.
Frank’s contributions to the sport were recognized with numerous awards and honors. He was inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame and received the prestigious Order of Ikkos medal from the United States Olympic Committee, acknowledging his role in Evan Lysacek’s Olympic triumph.
The tragic loss of the entire U.S. Figure Skating World Team in the Sabena Flight 548 crash in 1961 led to the creation of the U.S. Figure Skating Memorial Fund. This fund was established to honor the memory of the team members and to support the development of future generations of skaters. The fund provides monetary assistance to qualified U.S. Figure Skating members, helping them pursue their goals both on and off the ice.
The Memorial Fund awards skating and academic scholarships to athletes who demonstrate excellent competitive results, academic achievements, and show potential in national and international competitions. Donations to the fund go directly towards supporting these talented skaters, ensuring that 100% of the contributions are used to help them achieve their dreams.
Frank Carroll’s passing marks the end of an era in U.S. figure skating. His legacy, however, will endure through the countless skaters he coached and the lives he touched. Frank’s approach to coaching was characterized by his emphasis on discipline, artistry, and athleticism. He believed in the importance of a strong work ethic and instilled in his students the values of perseverance and dedication.
Frank Carroll’s influence extended beyond the technical aspects of skating. He was a mentor and a guide, offering emotional support and encouragement to his students. His ability to connect with his skaters on a personal level helped them navigate the pressures of competitive skating and achieve their best performances.
As the figure skating community mourns the loss of Frank Carroll, they also celebrate his remarkable contributions to the sport. His impact will be felt for generations to come, as the skaters he coached continue to inspire and influence the next wave of athletes. Frank’s dedication to the sport and his love for his students have left an indelible mark on the world of figure skating.
Frank Carroll’s death is a significant loss for the figure skating community, but his legacy lives on through the skaters he coached and the many lives he touched. His career, marked by countless successes and achievements, serves as a testament to his skill, dedication, and passion for the sport. As the community bids farewell to this iconic figure, they reflect on the profound impact he had on the world of figure skating and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
In memory of Frank Carroll, the skating community is encouraged to continue supporting young skaters and to contribute to the U.S. Figure Skating Memorial Fund. Through these efforts, Frank’s legacy will continue to inspire and support future generations of skaters, ensuring that his contributions to the sport are never forgotten.
