22
Chagrin Falls, OH
Derek Krueger's journey in aerials skiing began through Park City Ski & Snowboard's Elite Aerial Development Program, where he honed the technical precision and athletic prowess required to launch 40-60 feet into the air while executing complex twisting maneuvers. The Cleveland, Ohio native participated in U.S. Ski & Snowboard's inaugural Aerials Development Camp in summer 2020, working with U.S. Ski Team coaches to perfect his technique from the basics through to double full full—a double backflip with three twists.
Krueger's dedication to technical excellence earned him a bronze medal at the 2022 U.S. Championships in Bristol, New York, and a NorAm Cup victory at Utah Olympic Park in 2021. His consistent performances on the North American circuit demonstrated his readiness for international competition, leading to his selection to the U.S. Ski Team for the 2023-24 season. That year marked his first full season on the world cup circuit, where he gained valuable experience competing against the world's best aerialists and achieved his best result of 11th place in Ruka, Finland.
His continued growth culminated in January 2026 when he earned a career-best fourth-place finish in the men's aerials world cup at Lake Placid, New York, narrowly missing the podium by just 6.64 points.
Krueger's achievements earned him selection to the U.S. Olympic Team for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026— his Olympic debut. He also represented the United States at the 2023 FIS Freestyle Ski World Championships in Bakuriani, Georgia, finishing 23rd in aerials and gaining crucial championship experience.
Off the snow, Krueger balances his rigorous training schedule with academics at the University of Utah. When he finds time away from aerials training and competitions, he pursues his passion for fly fishing in Utah's mountain streams and enjoys powder skiing in the Wasatch Range.
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