Dr. Doug Weiss Brings Hometown Care and National Pride to Team USA’s Historic Gold
RANDOLPH, VT — When the USA Men’s National Hockey Team clinched its first gold medal in the IIHF World Championship in 92 years, one of the team members wasn’t on the ice – but on the sidelines next to the bench. Dr. Doug Weiss, orthopedic surgeon at Gifford Medical Center, stood proudly among the players, coaches, and medical staff, representing not only Team USA but also the Vermont community he serves every day.
A former professional hockey player himself, Dr. Weiss’s journey from the rink to the operating room is a story of passion, service, and extraordinary balance.
“My heart was always split between two loves: hockey and medicine,” says Dr. Weiss. “I played through prep school, at Dartmouth College, and even professionally in the U.S. and Europe—but I always knew my long-term goal was to become a physician.”
That unique combination of experiences led Dr. Weiss to a chance meeting in 2009 with USA Hockey’s medical director at an orthopedic conference. He expressed his desire to merge his hockey roots with his orthopedic training, and shortly after, he was invited to support a small tournament in Finland. One tournament led to another—and this May, it led to a gold medal in Stockholm, Sweden.
“This was more than just hockey – it was a historic win,” says Dr. Weiss of the 2025 championship. “We had a young, humble, and incredibly talented group. No egos. Just teamwork. Winning in overtime against Switzerland was one of the most exhilarating moments of my career.”
Dr. Weiss credits his time in the U.S. Navy with sharpening his ability to perform in high-pressure, team-oriented environments. At age 55, he chose to serve his country by caring for the men and women risking their lives in uniform. He completed four years of active duty, including six months in a combat zone at a forward operating base in Afghanistan. During that time, he developed a deep appreciation for mission-driven collaboration—a mindset shaped by both military service and elite sports medicine. It’s a perspective he brings into every exam room at Gifford.
“Whether it’s a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, I treat each patient with the same respect and care,” he says. “The goal is always the same: to get people back to what they love doing.”
Despite the demands of international travel and top-tier competition, Dr. Weiss maintains a full orthopedic practice in Randolph, Vermont. He’s quick to credit Gifford Medical Center for supporting his dual roles.
“Gifford has been incredibly supportive,” he says. “Balancing both is possible because I plan thoroughly and have a great team on both ends. I make sure neither role takes away from the other.”
Beyond the headlines and hardware, the most meaningful part of his international journey might be deeply personal.
“When I was invited to travel with USA Hockey, I asked if I could bring my dad along,” Weiss shares. “Growing up, we didn’t travel much. Now, he’s joined me on most of my trips. Sharing this experience with him, traveling the world, witnessing history together, has been priceless.”
Dr. Weiss embodies the values of integrity, service, and professionalism. Whether wearing the Navy uniform, the Team USA jacket, or blue scrubs at Gifford, he brings honor to each role.
“We live in a great country,” he says. “Representing the U.S. whether in the military or with a hockey team as well as taking care of our Vermont community is an honor and a privilege.”
About Gifford Orthopedics
Gifford Medical Center offers comprehensive orthopedic services close to home, whether you’re a high-performing athlete or simply trying to maintain an active lifestyle. With leading expertise and compassionate care, Dr. Doug Weiss and his team are here to help you get back to doing what you love. To learn more or schedule an appointment with Dr. Weiss, visit Gifford Orthopedics: surgical and non-surgical care, joint injuries, fractures and sprains or call 802-728-2430.
