Freestyle Judge Nicholas Passes Away

Esteemed FIS freestyle judge Paul Nicholas passed away June 19, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Nicholas began judging freestyle skiing competition in the 1970s, which led to a 35-year career in the sport and a profound impact on the development of the judge framework for the sport. He wrote the first the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) Judges book and helped to introduce new events to the sport including moguls and aerials.

Additionally, Nicholas was key to bringing freestyle skiing under FIS and subsequently into the Olympic Winter Games. He judged 20 years of World Cup events and the 1988 Olympics before retiring from judging in 2006. In 2020, Nicholas was nominated for the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame. His knowledge and expertise were pivotal to the sport’s growth and progression.

Nicholas’ impact on and dedication to the sport will be remembered. U.S. Ski & Snowboard extends its sincere condolences to his friends, family and loved ones.