After years of competing at the highest level, Andrew Kurka has announced his retirement from alpine ski racing. His career closes not just with medals and podium finishes, but with a profound impact on Para alpine skiing and the community that surrounds it.

Kurka quickly emerged as one of the most dominant athletes in the men’s Para alpine sitting class, representing the United States on the world stage starting in 2010. After a poorly timed injury kept him from racing at the 2014 Games, his comeback moment came at the 2018 Winter Paralympics, where he captured gold in men’s downhill, cementing himself as a star in the sport. 

Known for his aggressive skiing style, Kurka became a constant podium threat across World Cup and international events. His “bad boy line” mentality led to numerous injuries throughout his career, including over 20 broken bones, but they never stopped him from pushing the limits in his comebacks. He continued on to earn two more Paralympic team nominations, and wrapped up his career at the 2026 Games with a bronze medal in super-G. 

He was also instrumental in promoting the sport both to the next generation of athletes and in growing the visibility of Para sports. Through his work as an athlete mentor for Classroom Champions, Kurka spent time with students and teachers in underserved communities, talking about sport and disability. He is also the proud owner of a bed and breakfast in his home state of Alaska, geared towards helping people with disabilities experience the outdoors that have impacted his career so profoundly. Along with his success on the snow, Kurka has also served as a mentor to many young Para alpine athletes, guiding their careers throughout his time on the team.

As he puts away his race skis, Kurka leaves behind a sport that is stronger, faster, and more visible than when he entered it. His career helped bridge the gap between sport and culture, and he consistently delivered both on the snow and off it. 

While his time in the start gate may be over, his impact on Para alpine skiing will continue to shape the sport for years to come.

Thank you, Andrew.

U.S. Ski & Snowboard is proud to announce the winners of the annual U.S. Ski & Snowboard Congress Awards, honoring individuals and organizations that have significantly impacted the world of elite skiing and snowboarding. The list of winners from the 2025-26 season includes those who have demonstrated talent in athletics, coaching, governance and more, fostering the growth of skiing and snowboarding in the United States and worldwide. 

Dr. Tom Hackett, who has spent decades in the medical field and helping assist U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes and disciplines, took home the most prestigious prize: the Julius Blegen Award. In years past, Tom Kelly, Walt Evans, Bruce Crane, Bob Dart, Thelma Hoessler, Dexter Paine, Chuck Heckert, Spencer Eccles and others have been recognized with the Julius Blegen award. 

Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team athlete and three-time Olympic medalist, Lindsey Vonn, is the 2026 recipient of the Beck International Award. The Coach of the Year award was won by Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team moguls coach Bryon Wilson. And, Mt. Mansfield Academy took home the Club of the Year award due to its strength in development, coaching and academics. 

Other noteworthy recognitions include Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team athlete Jessie Diggins (2026 Buddy Werner Award), Bjorn & Kathy Borgen (2026 John J. Clair Jr. Award) and many others who continue to inspire the current and next generation of skiers and snowboarders. 

Find the complete list of winners below. 

DIAMOND AWARD

U.S. Ski & Snowboard Julius Blegen Award: Dr. Tom Hackett 
The Julius Blegen Award is given annually to the U.S. Ski & Snowboard member who has contributed outstanding service to skiing or snowboarding in the United States. It is designed to recognize individuals who have made a significant contribution over a sustained period on behalf of U.S. Ski & Snowboard's vision and mission. The award began in 1946 in memory of Julius Blegen, a former treasurer of the NSA from 1937-42 and the first president of the Central U.S. Ski & Snowboard, as well as the American Olympic coach in 1932. 

Dr. Tom Hackett has dedicated more than a decade of extraordinary service to U.S. Ski & Snowboard, volunteering his expertise at training camps, World Cup races and multiple Olympic Winter Games, while consistently prioritizing athlete health, safety and success. Widely regarded as one of the top orthopedic surgeons in sports medicine, Dr. Hackett has treated and operated on countless elite athletes, helping preserve and extend careers at the highest level of competition.

Beyond his surgical accomplishments, Dr. Hackett is respected for his limitless dedication to the U.S. Ski & Snowboard community, making him a deserving recipient of the Julius Blegen Award.

GOLD AWARDS

2026 Beck International Award: Lindsey Vonn
U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s Beck International Award, its highest athletic award, is presented to a competitor based on outstanding performance in international competition during the past season. The Beck award was inaugurated in 1931.

Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team athlete and three-time Olympic medalist Lindsey Vonn had a historic season, making an incredible comeback after over five years of retirement. During the 2025-26 season, Vonn earned two World Cup wins and seven World Cup podiums, led the FIS Crystal Globe downhill standings until her crash at the Olympic Winter Games in Cortina and made an impact far beyond the snow. 

2026 Development Club of the Year: Bridger Ski Foundation
Bridger Ski Foundation (BSF) delivered an exceptional 2025-26 season, highlighted by back-to-back U.S. Junior National Club Championships, 18 national qualifiers and 17 All-American honors from eight athletes. The program placed athletes on the international stage, with qualifiers heading to the World Cup circuit, U23 World Championships, U18 World Championships and U18 Nordic Nations trip. 

2026 Inclusion and OpportunityAward: The Chill Foundation
The award recognizes a person, group, organization, or program that has contributed significantly and sustainably to advancing inclusion, opportunity and diversity in skiing and snowboarding. 

Founded in 1995 by Jake and Donna Carpenter, the Chill Foundation has served more than 30,000 young people and now works with more than 2,000 youth annually through partnerships with community organizations across the country. By providing all equipment, instruction and access to board sports at no cost, Chill helps participants build confidence, develop new skills and foster a lifelong connection to the outdoors. 

U.S. Ski & Snowboard Club of the Year Award: Mt. Mansfield Academy 
Mount Mansfield Academy (MMA) delivered an outstanding 2025-26 season, showcasing success at every stage of its athlete development pipeline. Junior athletes recorded multiple podium and top 10 finishes throughout the season, with numerous athletes qualifying for the Eastern Region Championships and U16 Nationals. At the elite level, MMA alumni continued to compete internationally on the World Cup and NorAm circuits, highlighted by Ryan Cochran-Siegle earning an Olympic silver medal at the Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games.

U.S. Ski & Snowboard Development Coach of the Year Award: Karl Denney 
Karl Denney’s leadership during the 2025-26 season was transformative for U.S. nordic combined and ski jumping, extending far beyond his club program. Drawing on his background in Exercise Science and Psychology, Denney guided athletes to strong performances at the 2026 Junior World Championships and the 2026 Olympic Winter Games. He also led a high-performance European Development Tour across World Cup venues in Slovenia and Austria, mentoring 22 athletes and providing invaluable international experience. 

U.S. Ski & Snowboard International Coach of the Year Award: Bryon Wilson
Four Olympic medals, Nations Cup award and the Overall Crystal Globe were just part of the impact of Bryon Wilson’s coaching this season. A driving force behind the success of the U.S. moguls program, Wilson brings elite-level experience, technical expertise and a deep understanding of the sport to his role. An Olympic medalist himself, he has translated his competitive knowledge into world-class coaching, helping guide athletes to success on the World Cup stage and beyond. His leadership, dedication and passion for the sport have made him an invaluable figure within the moguls community and a deserving recipient of Coach of the Year honors.

2026 Westhaven Award: Curt Hammond
The Westhaven Award is a lifetime achievement award that recognizes an outstanding FIS technical delegate for their service. Nominations come from the pool of current FIS TDs.

Curt Hammond was recognized for his decades of leadership and lasting impact on U.S. Ski & Snowboard, the Western Region and the Pacific Northwest Ski Association (PNSA). Involved in the sport since the 1960s, Hammond has served as a coach, official, administrator and mentor at every level of alpine skiing. A former PNSA Executive Director and U.S. Ski Team men’s coach, he played a key role in establishing U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s three-region structure that remains in place today.

SILVER AWARDS

2026 Bud & Mary Little Award: Paul Van Slyke
The Bud and Mary Little Award is presented to an individual who has contributed significantly to U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team skiing or snowboard interests through a long-term involvement in the FIS or Olympic sports communities, internationally or nationally. Dr. Amos R. “Bud” Little was a noted ski racer, coach and U.S. Ski Team doctor, and he served as an influential leader with the International Ski Federation and U.S. Ski & Snowboard.

Paul Van Slyke is widely recognized as a respected leader within U.S. Ski & Snowboard and the international officiating community, dedicating countless hours to mentoring and educating officials on current rules, procedures and best practices. A strong advocate for safety and education, Paul has been instrumental in advancing initiatives such as the “Clean Hill Initiative,” helping shape a safer future for snow sports for generations to come. 

2026 Buddy Werner Award: Jessie Diggins
The Wallace “Buddy” Werner Award is given to the outstanding U.S. Ski & Snowboard competitor who demonstrated leadership and good sportsmanship in national or international competition. It is presented in memory of Buddy Werner, an outstanding U.S. alpine racer who was killed in an avalanche after the 1964 Olympics at the height of his ski career.

Jessie Diggins is the most decorated American cross country in U.S. history, but it’s her efforts off the snow that matter most. During the fall of 2026, NYSEF hosted the ‘Climb to the Castle’ rollerski race, where Jessie Diggins exemplified the spirit of the award throughout the entire weekend. She consistently went out of her way to connect with young athletes, sign autographs, offer encouragement and serve as a positive role model both on and off the course. Her humility, generosity with her time and genuine engagement with the ski community left a lasting impression on athletes, families and coaches alike.

2026 Eileen Shiffrin HERoic Development Coach of the Year Award: Diann Roffe
U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s Eileen Shiffrin HERoic Development Coach of the Year Award is given to the female coach who has a significant impact on her athletes throughout the season. The coach provides leadership, guidance and support in technical, tactical and programmatic ways for her athletes. This award is inspired after Eileen Shiffrin, Mikaela Shiffrin's mother who consistently goes above and beyond in helping her achieve her dreams.

As Junior Program Director at Burke Mountain Academy, Diann Roffe has built one of the nation’s premier junior programs by creating an environment centered on fun, teamwork and athlete development while leveraging Vermont’s Flexible Pathways Initiative for success. A two-time Olympic medalist, Roffe brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level. Working daily with nearly 50 U12 and U14 athletes, she is passionate about fostering a lifelong love for the sport and guiding young athletes on a path of continuous growth, confidence and improvement.

2026 John J. Clair Jr. Award: Bjorn & Kathy Borgen
U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s John J. Clair Jr. Award is given for outstanding service that benefited the U.S. Ski or Snowboard Team. The award was established by the Long Island Ski Club in memory of John Clair.

Bjorn Erik Borgen is recognized for his longstanding leadership, philanthropy and meaningful impact on U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes. Through his service as a Trustee of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Foundation and the family’s continued support of initiatives such as the Bob Beattie Athlete Travel Fund, Bjorn Erik Borgen has helped provide critical resources that enable athletes to train and compete at the highest level. Kathy’s extensive nonprofit leadership and stewardship have further strengthened the organization and its culture of giving.

Their support is also deeply personal, with their granddaughters, Liv and Kjersti Moritz, currently competing on the Stifel U.S. Ski Team and Solveig Moritz progressing through the development pipeline. Bjorn Erik exemplifies the spirit of the John J. Clair Jr. Award through his sustained generosity, leadership and dedication to the future of the sport.

2026 Paul Bacon Award: New York Ski Educational Foundation & Olympic Regional Development Authority (NYSEF/ORDA)
U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s Paul Bacon Award is given to an individual or group for the most significant contribution to U. S. Ski & Snowboard in race organization. It was founded by the Bacon family and the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Rocky Mountain Division in memory of Paul Bacon, an outstanding race organizer.

The New York Ski Educational Foundation (NYSEF) and the Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) partnered throughout the 2026 season to deliver a premier slate of regional, national and international events. ORDA successfully hosted two FIS World Cup aerials competitions in January, as well as the Stifel World Cup Finals for cross country, bringing elite competition to the upstate New York region. NYSEF organized an 11-day, four-event NorAm Cup series, highlighted by the development of a brand-new downhill track at Whiteface Mountain. Together, NYSEF and ORDA also hosted dozens of additional events, including the NYSSRA Championships, U.S. Ski & Snowboard Eastern Championships, HoleShot SX/BX competitions and many more.

2026 Russell Wilder Award: Forest Carey
U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s Russell Wilder Award is given annually to recognize the most outstanding effort in focusing the interests of American youth on the sports of skiing or snowboarding. 

Former U.S. Ski Team member, NCAA All-American and three-time USSA International Coach of the Year Forest Carey has brought decades of elite coaching experience to the grassroots level at Park City Ski & Snowboard (PCSS). In 2025-26, serving as Technical Director and Youth Program Coach, Carey grew the Utah Olympic Park-based youth racing program to 125 athletes with a waitlist of more than 100 children. His programming has created one of the country’s most in-demand youth ski racing programs. By combining elite-level coaching with an emphasis on fun, development and broad access to the sport, Carey is helping build the next generation of American ski racers ahead of the 2034 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City.

2026 Team Athletes Giving Back Award: Tristan Feinberg - Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club
Many U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team athletes donate time, money and their persona to various charitable and nonprofit endeavors. The award includes a $5K grant to the athlete's charitable cause or organization and was made possible by the generosity of an anonymous Trustee donor. 

Last year, Stifel U.S. Freeski Team athlete Tristan Feinberg launched the inaugural Halfpipe Rodeo, an event focused on building mentorship, community and opportunity for Aspen’s youth. Through a partnership with the Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club (AVSC), the event raised enough funds to provide a full-program scholarship and a season pass for a local child. Centered on inclusivity and mental health awareness, the Halfpipe Rodeo reflects Feinberg’s commitment to breaking down barriers in sport while creating a supportive and welcoming environment for young people.

2026 West Family Award: Troy Price
The West Family Award is given annually to recognize an outstanding, dedicated U.S. Ski & Snowboard certified official for the year and/or over numerous years, from the 'grass root' membership – the lowliest gatekeeper on up. The donor of this award is the Fraser and Teddy West family.

For decades, Troy Price has been a leader in the alpine officiating community, known for his commitment to developing the next generation of officials. This 2025-26 season, he led training for more than 50 officials, hosted supplemental clinics across the division and volunteered additional time to administer Level 3 exams for rising technical delegates. Price served with distinction as a technical delegate at the Mont Tremblant World Cup while continuing to mentor officials and volunteers at Snowbasin Resort in preparation for future major events, including the 2034 Olympic Winter Games. Through his leadership, collaboration and dedication to education and relationship building, Troy has made a lasting impact on the sport.

2026 Sosman Award: Dr. Jeffrey Kutcher
U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s J. Leland Sosman Award is presented to a member of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Physicians’ Pool who has made great contributions as a volunteer medical provider.  In recognition of Doc Sosman and his endless commitment as a volunteer for the U. S. Ski & Snowboard, this award is given to an exceptional member of the "medical support team" who has provided outstanding medical coverage and service to the U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes.

Dr. Kutcher has distinguished himself as an exceptional medical professional serving the U.S. Ski & Snowboard teams, playing an instrumental role in the organization’s success throughout the season and at the highest levels of international competition. He consistently demonstrated extraordinary dedication and accessibility, ensuring athletes had immediate access to expert medical care while providing trusted concussion-related guidance across the organization. During the 2026 Olympic Winter Games, Dr. Kutcher further exemplified his commitment by stepping in to provide additional medical coverage when it was needed most, ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality care for athletes during the most demanding moments of competition. 

U.S. SKI & SNOWBOARD ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

2026 Adaptive Athlete of the Year: Patrick Halgren
Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Ski Team athlete Patrick Halgren delivered one of the standout performances of the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, earning a silver medal in super-G. His achievement showcased not only world-class skill but unrivaled determination on the biggest stage in sports. 

2026 Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team Athletes of the Year: Lindsey Vonn & Ryan Cochran-Siegle
Lindsey Vonn made a historic comeback season, earning seven World Cup podiums and becoming the oldest skier to win a World Cup race, all while leading the downhill standings before her injury in the Olympic downhill. 

Ryan Cochran-Siegle captured his second Olympic medal in super-G and added two downhill World Cup podiums to his resume, leading the men’s alpine team through one of the strongest seasons of his career.

2026 Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team Athletes of the Year: Jessie Diggins & Ben Ogden
Jessie Diggins capped off her historic career in U.S. cross country history with 11 World Cup podiums, a Tour de Ski title, an Olympic bronze medal and the overall and distance FIS Crystal Globes. Diggins retired at the end of the 2026-27 season as the most decorated American cross country skier in history. 

Ben Ogden ended his season as the most decorated male cross country skier in U.S. history, winning two Olympic silver medals. In Milano Cortina, Ogden became the first American male to win an Olympic medal since Bill Koch in 1972 in the men’s classic sprint, and then days later, secured his second medal of the Games in the men’s team sprint with long-time teammate, Gus Schumacher. 

2026 Stifel U.S. Freeski Team Athletes of the Year: Grace Henderson & Mac Forehand
Grace Henderson overcame multiple injuries to earn an Olympic team spot while demonstrating resilience, progression and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the season. 

Mac Forehand delivered a breakthrough year highlighted by an Olympic silver medal with a never-before-seen trick, X Games gold and multiple World Cup podiums – cementing himself as one of the sport’s most progressive athletes.

2026 Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team Athlete of the Year: Olivia Giaccio (moguls) & Chris Lillis (aerials)
Olivia Giaccio captured the moguls Overall World Cup title in 2026, establishing herself as the world’s top moguls athlete, while helping her team take home the Nations Cup for the fourth year in a row. Giaccio also recently graduated from Columbia University. 

Chris Lillis continued his success as one of the world's top aerial skiers. At the Olympic Winter Games, Lillis defended his 2022 Olympic gold medal and brought home the gold once again in the team event alongside Kaila Kuhn and Connor Curran. Lillis is the most decorated U.S. aerialists in history. 

2026 Stifel U.S. Ski Jumping Athletes of the Year: Annika Belshaw & Kevin Bickner
Annika Belshaw delivered a historic season for the Stifel U.S. Ski Jumping Team, earning a career-best seventh-place World Cup finish, competing in all Olympic events and setting a women’s program record with a 196-meter ski flying jump. 

Kevin Bickner continued to lead the men’s program with veteran leadership and strong international results, including four top-15 World Cup finishes and his third Olympic appearance.

2026 Stifel U.S. Nordic Combined Team Athletes of the Year: Alexa Brabec & Niklas Malacinski
Alexa Brabec had a breakthrough season and her best season to date, with eight World Cup podiums, including her first career victory, finishing second overall in the World Cup standings. 

Niklas Malacinski earned his first Olympic team selection, his first World Cup top-10 result and qualified for the sport’s first ski flying event, marking a major step forward in his career.

2026 Hydro Flask U.S. Snowboard Team Athletes of the Year: Chloe Kim & Jake Canter
Despite battling a serious shoulder injury ahead of the Olympics, Chloe Kim earned her third consecutive Olympic medal with a silver in halfpipe, reinforcing her legacy as one of the greatest riders in snowboard history. 

Jake Canter broke through with his first World Cup victory in Aspen before earning an Olympic bronze at his first Games, a testament to his resilience throughout the years after suffering a near-life-ending injury at age 13.

U.S. SKI & SNOWBOARD DEVELOPMENT COACHES OF THE YEAR

2026 Alpine Development Coach of the Year: Matt Underhill
As head coach of the men’s Regional Development Program, Matt Underhill helped launch the Regional Development Program as the Rocky Region Coach leading elite boys across the country. This 2025-26 season, his athletes earned two World Junior Championship medals, including silver in team combined and bronze in slalom, while Maximilien Hoder captured the NorAm Cup slalom title and Jevin Palmquist finished second. Five RDP athletes are also on track for Stifel U.S. Ski Team nominations next season, highlighting Underhill’s impact on the U.S. alpine development pipeline.

2026 Cross Country Development Coach of the Year: Piotr Bednarski
As head coach of Loppet Nordic Racing, Piotr Bednarski has left a lasting impact on nordic skiing development in the Midwest. This season, his athletes excelled internationally, including Linnea Ousdigian, who won the overall U18 Scando Cup. Piotr also coached multiple LNR alumni at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games and has spent decades mentoring thousands of athletes through the Loppet Foundation.

2026 Freeski Development Coach of the Year: Dave Zweig
Dave Zweig led an outstanding season at AVSC, coaching athletes to success across Rev Tour, NorAm, Junior Worlds and World Cup events. Highlights included multiple World Cup halfpipe finals appearances by Hunter Maytin and strong Junior World performances from several athletes. With more than 20 years of coaching experience, Zweig is recognized for combining technical expertise, mentorship and athlete-centered development.

2026 Freestyle Development Coach of the Year: Sean Ennis
Sean Ennis, currently a dedicated moguls couch out of Gould Academy, guided a successful moguls program with athletes qualifying for Junior Nationals, U.S. Nationals, NorAms and Junior World Championships. Known for his technical expertise and supportive coaching style, Ennis plays a key role in athlete development at all levels and contributes extensively to course development. 

2026 Ski Jumping/Nordic Combined Development Coach of the Year: Karl Denney
Karl Denney led a historic season for SSWSC, helping athletes earn medals at the 2026 Junior World Championships. Combining expertise in exercise science and psychology, Denney has elevated athlete development through an athlete-first approach focused on performance and resilience. He also led a European Development Tour and continues to shape the future of ski jumping and nordic combined in the U.S.

2026 Snowboard Development Coach of the Year: Casey Lehmicke
Casey Lehmicke has played a major role in growing the midwest freestyle snowboard scene through Buck Hill Freestyle. A longtime coach and mentor, he has helped athletes progress from grassroots competition to international events and professional opportunities. Lehmicke is known for building an inclusive, hard-working culture that emphasizes skill development, confidence, creativity and a lasting love for snowboarding.

U.S. SKI & SNOWBOARD NATIONAL COACHES OF THE YEAR

2026 Alpine National Coach of the Year: Kip Spangler
Kip Spangler played a critical role in the success of the women’s alpine speed team this year, leading both strength and conditioning and on-hill coaching efforts year-round. His dedication in the gym and at the USANA Center of Excellence powered by iFIT helped drive the team’s strong performance throughout the season.

2026 Cross Country National Coach of the Year: Matt Whitcomb
Over 20 years with the Stifel U.S. Ski Team, Matt Whitcomb has been instrumental in the growth of U.S. cross country skiing as a development coach, World Cup coach and Head Coach. Known for both his expertise and genuine care for the community, Whitcomb has helped shape the culture and long-term success of cross country skiing in the United States and this 2025-26 season, helped guide the team to three Olympic medals in Milano Cortina – the most medals won by the cross country program in Olympic history. 

2026 Freeski National Staff Member of the Year: Ryan Wyble
Ryan Wyble’s strategic leadership and analytical coaching helped guide the Pro Team to two Olympic silver medals and several additional World Cup and X Games podiums during the 2025-26 season. His professionalism, preparation and athlete management were key to the team’s success.

2026 Freestyle National Coach of the Year: Walter Crijanovschi
In his first season with the Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team aerials team, Walter Crijanovschi made an immediate impact by implementing a comprehensive strength and conditioning program focused on durability, power and consistency. His athlete-centered leadership helped elevate the team’s high-performance environment.

2026 Ski Jumping Coach of the Year: Karl Vegard Andersen
In his first season with the program, Karl Vegard Andersen quickly became a key leader for the Stifel U.S. Ski Jumping Team women’s program, bringing technical expertise, consistency and professionalism. His impact earned him a role on the Olympic staff and helped drive the team’s progression throughout the season.

2026 Nordic Combined National Coach of the Year: Emil Vilhemsen
Emil Vilhemsen made an immediate impact in his first season as head coach, building a culture of trust, accountability and performance. Under his leadership, the program achieved its most successful World Cup season in more than a decade.

2026 Snowboard National Coach of the Year: Ben Bright
Ben Bright made a major impact in his first season with the halfpipe program, helping athletes secure six World Cup podiums and Snow League podiums. His experience, technical insight and commitment to athlete progression were especially valuable in supporting Hydro Flask U.S. Snowboard Team athlete Maddie Mastro and the broader team throughout the season.

U.S. SKI & SNOWBOARD SPORT CLUBS OF THE YEAR

2026 Alpine Club of the Year: Mt. Mansfield Academy 
2026 Cross Country Club of the Year: Bridger Ski Foundation
2026 Freestyle Club of the Year: Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club
2026 Freeski Club of the Year: Waterville Valley BBTS
2026 Ski Jumping/Nordic Combined Club of the Year: Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club
2026 Snowboard Club of the Year: Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club

Park City, Utah (May 13, 2026) - The Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team has officially named Phil McNichol as the men’s alpine head coach, effective immediately.

McNichol returns to the Stifel U.S. Ski Team alpine program with decades of elite international coaching and leadership experience. From 2002–08, McNichol served as head coach of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team during one of the most successful stretches in the history of the men’s World Cup program. In his tenure from with the team, McNichol helped seven different athletes gain podium finishes, with the men’s team finishing second in the Nations’ Cup standings on two separate occasions.

Most recently, McNichol served as alpine director for Alpine Canada from 2019-2022, helping bring success to both the men’s and women’s programs.

“I'm incredibly excited to welcome Phil’s leadership back to the men’s team,” said Borgen Family Alpine Director Sasha Rearick. “He’s a true team builder who creates an environment where athletes and staff can grow both individually and together as a high-performing group. Phil brings a genuine care for people, great energy and a lot of fun to the daily process of getting better.”

Known throughout the alpine community for his athlete-centered leadership style, McNichol has built a reputation for fostering high-performance cultures grounded in trust, collaboration, accountability and strong relationships.

“I’m incredibly honored to return to the Stifel U.S. Ski Team and support these athletes in their pursuit of excellence and world-class performance,” said Phil McNichol. “U.S. Ski & Snowboard has built tremendous momentum, and I’m excited to help contribute to the next chapter by creating an environment where athletes and staff can thrive and perform at their best.”

As men’s alpine head coach, McNichol will work closely with coaches, athletes and support staff to continue strengthening the U.S. men’s alpine program and pursue sustained success on the World Cup stage and beyond.

###
FOR MORE INFORMATION 
Sierra Ryder - Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team Communications Manager
[email protected] 

Multi-year partnership equips America’s top winter athletes at the next two Olympics & Paralympics - in the French Alps in 2030 and Salt Lake City in 2034 

DENVER, CO — The North Face today announces an eight-year partnership as the Official Performance Apparel Partner of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. Uniting two legendary names in mountain sports, this collaboration marks a significant milestone for both organizations in anticipation of the 2030 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in the French Alps, the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, and additional national and global competitions.

Under this new partnership, The North Face will provide competition outerwear for national team athletes, coaches, and staff across all 11 U.S. Ski & Snowboard disciplines, including the Stifel U.S. Ski Teams: alpine, cross country, freeski, freestyle moguls, freestyle aerials, nordic combined, Para alpine, Para nordic and ski jumping; the Toyota U.S. Para Snowboard Team and the Hydro Flask U.S. Snowboard Team. Athletes will wear The North Face gear during World Cup events, World Championships, national events, official training camps, and the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games through April 2034.

As the exclusive outerwear partner, The North Face will outfit athletes with cutting-edge performance apparel designed to deliver speed, warmth, and protection in the world's most demanding conditions. In addition to outerwear, The North Face will provide performance base layers, mid-layers, training wear, accessories, and bags/luggage to support the full year-round lifecycle of U.S. Ski & Snowboard.

“The partnership between U.S. Ski & Snowboard and The North Face brings together the best of our two organizations, with our long shared commitments to elite mountain and adventure sports athletes,” stated Dennis Seydel, Chief Marketing Officer at The North Face. “As a brand forged by those who push the boundaries of human potential, we are proud to provide current and future generations of ski and snowboard legends with The North Face as they train and compete on the world stage.”

“The North Face is synonymous with innovation, performance and a deep respect for the mountains, which are values that align perfectly with U.S. Ski & Snowboard,” said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “This partnership is about more than outerwear; it’s about equipping our athletes with world-class gear that supports them from training to competition as we build toward 2030 and 2034. We’re proud to partner with a brand that shares our commitment to excellence, athlete-driven innovation and pushing the limits of what’s possible.”

The athlete-focused team kit will feature athlete-tested, expedition-proven products from The North Face, featuring innovative material solutions including The North Face lab-developed Futurelight, Cloud Down insulation, Futurefleece, DotKnit and DryVent technologies along with Gore-Tex. These materials have been tested in the world’s most challenging environments and refined through deep collaboration with U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes.

In addition to outfitting athletes, The North Face will launch a commercially available collection inspired by U.S. Ski & Snowboard beginning Fall 2026. The collection will be available at thenorthface.com and select retail locations, bringing Olympic and Paralympic-caliber performance and style to consumers nationwide.

For more information about The North Face and U.S. Ski & Snowboard partnership, visit thenorthface.com.

PRESS CONTACTS
[email protected]
[email protected] 

About The North Face®:
The North Face, a division of VF Corporation was founded in 1966 with the goal of preparing outdoor athletes for the rigors of their next adventure. Named for the most challenging side of the mountain, The North Face has equipped explorers to reach their dreams since its inception. Driven by the mantra of Never Stop Exploring™, The North Face is the world's leading outdoor brand, creating athlete-tested, expedition-proven products that help people explore and test the limits of human potential. The North Face develops, designs, and manufactures performance apparel for men, women, and children with best-in-class products for alpine, ski, snowboarding, climb, trail, running, hike, camping, and outdoor enthusiasts. The brand operates over 1500 retail stores globally and is distributed at premium and specialty retail sporting goods stores worldwide. The brand is headquartered in Denver, Colorado.

About U.S. Ski & Snowboard
U.S. Ski & Snowboard is the Olympic and Paralympic National Governing Body of ski and snowboard sports in the USA, based in Park City, Utah. Started in 1905, the organization now represents nearly 240 elite skiers and snowboarders competing on 11 teams, including the Stifel U.S. Ski Team: alpine, cross country, freestyle moguls, freestyle aerials, freeski, nordic combined, Para alpine, Para nordic and ski jumping, the Toyota U.S. Para Snowboard Team and Hydro Flask U.S. Snowboard Team. In addition to the elite teams, U.S. Ski & Snowboard also provides leadership and direction for tens of thousands of young skiers and snowboarders across the USA, encouraging and supporting them in achieving excellence. By empowering national teams, clubs, coaches, parents, officials, volunteers and fans, U.S. Ski & Snowboard is committed to the progression of its sports, athlete success and the value of team. For more information, visit usskiandsnowboard.org.

Park City, UT (May 6, 2026) - U.S. Ski & Snowboard officially announces the 13 athletes who have been nominated to the 2026-27 Stifel U.S. Para Nordic Ski Team across all classifications and disciplines in both cross country skiing and biathlon.

The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team announces its teams in two phases: nomination and acceptance. The athletes are formally nominated to the Stifel U.S. Para Nordic Ski Team in May. Pending their acceptance of the nomination and adherence to the team expectations outlined in team criteria, athletes will be officially announced to the team in October 2026. 

The 2026-27 U.S. Para Nordic Ski Team is led by some of the sport’s most accomplished athletes, including the most decorated winter Paralympian of all time, Oksana Masters, nine-time Paralympic medalist Kendall Gretsch, eight-time medalist Jake Adicoff and seven-time Paralympic medalist Sydney Peterson. At the Milano Cortina Paralympic Winter Games, the team delivered, winning 15 of Team USA’s 24 total medals – 11 in cross-country and four in biathlon.

This season also marks the first year of Para Nordic being fully re-integrated into U.S. Ski & Snowboard.

2026-27 U.S. Para Nordic Ski Team

(Hometown; Club; College; Birthdate)

A TEAM
Women - Sitting

• Kendall Gretsch (Downers Grove, IL; Washington University in St. Louis; 4/2/1992)
• Oksana Masters (Louisville, KY; Devry University; 6/19/1989)

Women - Standing 

• Sydney Peterson (Lake Elmo, MN; Team Solider Hollow; St. Lawrence University, University of Utah; 2/17/2002)

Men - Sitting

• Aaron Pike (Park Rapids, MN; University of Illinois; 4/5/1986)
• Josh Sweeney (Glendale, AZ; U.S. Marine Corps; 6/6/1987)

Men - Visually Impaired

• Jake Adicoff (Sun Valley, ID; Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation; Bowdoin College; 5/16/1995)

B TEAM

Women - Standing

• Dani Aravich (Bosie, ID; Crosscut Winter Sports Center; Butler University; 5/8/1996)

C TEAM

Men - Standing

• Jack Berry (Missoula, MT; Icebreakers; Boston College; 8/20/1997)

DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Women - Sitting

• Nicole Zaino (Brookfield, CT; Crosscut Winter Sports Center; Clarkson University, University of Washington; 2/25/1996)

Men - Sitting

• Michael Kneeland (Bozeman, MT; Crosscut Winter Sports Center; Montana State; 10/25/2005)
• Ty Wiberg (Chippewa Falls, WI; Crosscut Winter Sports Center; Montana State; 11/27/2001)

Men - Standing

• Zhenghong Schlechte (Mahtomedi, MN; Crosscut Winter Sports Center; Montana State; 6/25/2007)

Men - Visually Impaired 

• Max Nelson (Grant, MN; Endurance United; College of St. Scholastica; 3/5/2004)

Park City, UT (May 6, 2026) - U.S. Ski & Snowboard officially announces the 21 athletes who have been nominated to the 2026-27 Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team.

U.S. Ski & Snowboard announces its teams in two phases: nomination and acceptance. The athletes are formally nominated to the Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team in May. Pending their acceptance of the nomination and adherence to the team expectations outlined in team criteria, athletes will be officially announced to the team in October 2026.

The 2026–27 roster is led by two-time Olympic silver medalist Ben Ogden, Olympic silver medalist Gus Schumacher, World Cup podium finisher JC Schoonmaker and two-time World Championships medalist Julia Kern. At the Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games, Ogden snapped a 50-year medal drought with silver in the classic sprint, becoming the first American man to medal since Bill Koch in 1976. Days later, Schumacher joined Ogden to capture another silver medal in the team sprint – marking the team’s third medal of the Games, alongside Jessie Diggins’ bronze. Diggins retired at the end of the 2025-26 season.

The Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team features several new names, including three athletes breaking through to the national team: Jack Leveque, Neve Gerard and Corbin Carpenter. 

2026-27 Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team

(Hometown; Club; College; Birthdate)

A TEAM

Men

• Ben Ogden (Burlington, VT; Stratton Mountain School; University of Vermont; 2/13/2000)
• James "JC" Schoonmaker (Lake Tahoe, CA; Alaska Pacific University; University of Alaska Anchorage; 8/12/2000)
• Gus Schumacher (Anchorage, AK; Alaska Pacific University; University of Alaska Anchorage; 7/25/2000)

B TEAM
Women

• Julia Kern (Waltham, MA; Stratton Mountain School; Dartmouth College; 9/12/1997)
• Kendall Kramer (Fairbanks, AK; Alaska Pacific University; University of Alaska Fairbanks; 6/26/2002)
• Sophia Laukli (Yarmouth, ME; Aker-Dæhlie; University of Utah; 6/08/2000)
• Novie McCabe (Winthrop, WA; Alaska Pacific University; University of Utah; 12/15/2001)
• Samantha “Sammy” Smith (Boise, ID; Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation; Stanford University; 9/22/2005)
• Ava Thurston (Waterbury, VT; Dartmouth College; 10/6/2004)

Men

• John Steel Hagenbuch (Ketchum, ID; Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation; Dartmouth College; 10/1/2001)
• Zak Ketterson (Bloomington, MN; Team Birkie; Northern Michigan University; 4/2/1997)
• Zanden McMullen (Anchorage, AK; Alaska Pacific University; 5/31/2001)
• Jack Young (Jay, VT; Craftsbury Green Racing Project; Colby College; 12/17/2002)

DEVELOPMENT TEAM
Women

• Haley Brewster (Avon, CO; Stratton Mountain School; University of Vermont; 6/6/2003)
• Neve Gerard (Bend, OR; University of Utah; 3/20/2006)*
• Sydney Palmer-Leger (Park City, UT; Mansfield Nordic Pro Team; University of Utah; 2/4/2002)

Men

• Corbin Carpenter (Aspen, CO; University of Alaska Anchorage; 12/2/2004)*
• Tabor Greenberg (Moretown, VT; University of Vermont; 5/4/2006)
• Zach Jayne (Bend, OR; Stratton Mountain School; University of Utah; (3/30/2004)
• Murphy Kimball (Anchorage, AK; Alaska Winter Stars; University of Alaska Anchorage; 7/16/2006)
• Jack Leveque (Anchorage, AK; Alaska Winter Stars; 5/3/2009)*

*Newly named to the Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team

Park City, UT (May 6, 2026) - U.S. Ski & Snowboard officially announces the 13 athletes who have been nominated to the 2026-27 Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Ski Team across all classifications and disciplines. 

U.S. Ski & Snowboard announces its teams in two phases: nomination and acceptance. The athletes are formally nominated to the Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Ski Team in May. Pending their acceptance of the nomination and adherence to the team expectations outlined in team criteria, athletes will be officially announced to the team in October 2026. 

The team is headlined by 2026 Paralympic silver medalist Patrick Halgren and World Cup podium finishers Audrey Crowley and Kelsey O’Driscoll. Crowley and O’Driscoll both had standout 2025-26 seasons, with multiple World Cup podium appearances and Paralympic debuts. 

New to the team this year are Meg Gustafson and guide Spenser Gustafson. The brother-sister duo made their World Cup debut last season and immediately made an impact, earning two podiums. Joining them is Noah Bury, who made his first World Cup and Paralympic starts last season. 

2026-27 Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Ski Team

(Hometown; Club; College; Birthdate)

A TEAM
Women - Standing

• Audrey Crowley (Grafton, WI; Ski & Snowboard Club Vail; University of Denver; 3/1/2007)
• Kelsey O’Driscoll (Glens Falls, NY; National Sports Center for the Disabled; SUNY Adirondack; 1/24/1994)

Women - Visually Impaired

• Meg Gustafson (Edwards, CO; Ski & Snowboard Club Vail; 4/22/2009)*
  • Guide: Spenser Gustafson (Edwards, CO; Ski & Snowboard Club Vail; 5/8/2007)*

Men - Standing

• Patrick Halgren (Tolland, CT; National Sports Center for the Disabled; 6/24/1992)

B TEAM
Women - Standing

• Allie Johnson (Chicago, IL; National Sports Center for the Disabled; Colorado State University; 12/23/1994)

Women - Sitting

• Saylor O’Brien (Woodland, UT; National Ability Center; 4/28/2003)

Men - Standing

• Jesse Keefe (Sun Valley, ID; Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation; University of Colorado Colorado Springs; 3/26/2004)
• Andrew Haraghey (Enfield, CT; National Ability Center; Westminster University; 12/16/1995)
• Tyler McKenzie (Leominster, MA; National Ability Center; Bates College; 8/20/1991)

Men - Sitting

• Matthew Brewer (Huntington Beach, CA; National Ability Center; Saddleback Community College; 5/8/1975; 2022)
• Robert Enigl (Kaukauna, WI; National Sports Center for the Disabled/National Ability Center; Fox Valley Tech; 12/16/1983)

D TEAM 

Men - Standing

• Noah Bury (Salt Lake City, UT; National Sports Center for the Disabled; Weber State University; 1/18/2003)*

Men - Sitting

• Ravi Drugan (Eugene, OR; Oregon Adaptive Sports; 12/19/1989)

*Newly named to the Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Ski Team

FOLLOW THE STIFEL U.S. PARA ALPINE SKI TEAM
Instagram: @usparaskisnowboard 
Facebook: @usskiandsnowboard
TikTok: @usskiandsnowboard
X: @usskiteam
Threads: @usskiteam 

###

FOR MORE INFORMATION 
Ryan Odeja - Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Team Press Officer
[email protected] 

Park City, UT (May 6, 2026) - Today, U.S. Ski & Snowboard announced the 29 athletes who have been nominated to the 2026-27 Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team moguls and aerials rosters. All athletes qualified for the team based on the existing freestyle moguls and aerials team criteria.

U.S. Ski & Snowboard announces its teams in two phases: nomination and acceptance. The athletes are formally nominated to the Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team in May. Pending their acceptance of the nomination and adherence to the team expectations outlined in team criteria, athletes will be officially announced to the team in October 2026.

The 2026-27 moguls team is headlined by 2026 Olympic gold and bronze medalist Liz Lemley and three-time Olympic silver medalist Jaelin Kauf. Olivia Giaccio wrapped the 2025-26 World Cup season, taking home the overall Crystal Globe for the first time in her career. Tess Johnson and Nick Page both finished the season ranked third in the moguls standings. 

Kaila Kuhn, Chris Lillis and Connor Curran, 2026 Olympic champions in the mixed aerials team event, will lead the aerials team nominations along with World Cup standouts Quinn Dehlinger and Winter Vinecki. 

Beaudin Napolitano is a new addition to the aerials rookie roster after a bronze medal finish at the 2026 FIS Freestyle Junior World Ski Championships in the aerials team event and multiple top-five NorAm Cup results. 

The team is heading into a World Championship season with expected domestic World Cup stops in Lake Placid for aerials, Waterville Valley for moguls and Deer Valley for moguls and aerials at the Intermountain Health Freestyle International presented by Stifel.

Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team

(Hometown; Club; College; Birthdate)

AERIALS

A TEAM
Women

• Kaila Kuhn (Boyne City, MI; University of Utah; 4/8/2003)
• Winter Vinecki (Gaylord, MI; Park City Ski & Snowboard; University of Utah/St. Mary’s University School of Law; 12/18/1998)

Men

• Connor Curran (Cincinnati, OH; Park City Ski & Snowboard/Elite Aerial Development Program; Utah Valley University; 9/23/2004)
• Quinn Dehlinger (Cincinnati, OH; Elite Aerial Development Program; Salt Lake Community College; 6/8/2002)
• Chris Lillis (Rochester, NY; Bristol Mountain Freestyle Team; University of Utah; 10/4/1998)

B TEAM 
Women

• Ashley Caldwell (Ashburn, VA; University of Utah; 9/14/1993)
• Kyra Dossa (Cleveland, OH; Park City Ski & Snowboard; University of Utah; 1/24/2004)
• Karenna Elliott (Cincinnati, OH; Elite Aerial Development Program/Park City Ski & Snowboard; Utah Valley University; 5/24/2000)
• Dani Loeb (Pintlala, AL; Elite Aerial Development Program; University of Utah; 8/10/2001)
• Tasia Tanner (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard/Fly Freestyle; University of Utah; 7/26/2002)

Men

• Derek Krueger (Cleveland, OH; Elite Aerial Development Program; University of Utah; 6/2/2003)
• Beaudin Napolitano (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; 4/26/2006)*
• Ashton Salwan (Cleveland, OH; Mont Chalet Freestyle Training Center; University of Utah; 6/23/2004)
• Ian Schoenwald (Kaysville, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; Utah Valley University; 6/18/2004)

MOGULS

A TEAM
Women

• Olivia Giaccio (Redding, CT; Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club; Columbia University; 8/15/2000)
• Kasey Hogg (Kensington, NH; Wasatch Freestyle; University of Utah; 1/8/2003)
• Tess Johnson (Vail, CO; Ski & Snowboard Club Vail; Harvard Extension School; 6/19/2000)
• Jaelin Kauf (Alta, WY; Grand Targhee Ski & Snowboard Foundation/Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club; University of Utah; 9/26/1996)
• Elizabeth Lemley (Vail, CO; Ski & Snowboard Club Vail; Oberlin College; 1/22/2006) 

Men

• Charlie Mickel (Durango, CO; Wasatch Freestyle/Durango Winter Sports Club; University of Utah; 7/6/2004)
• Nick Page (Park City, UT; Wasatch Freestyle; 8/1/2002)

B TEAM 
Women

• Kylie Kariotis (Novato, CA; Wasatch Freestyle; Boston College; 7/14/2004)
• Alli Macuga (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; University of Utah; 9/24/2003)
• Abby McLarnon (Steamboat Springs, CO; Ski & Snowboard Club Vail; University of Utah; 10/16/2006)

Men

• Dylan Marcellini (Walnut Creek, CA; Wasatch Freestyle/Olympic Valley Freestyle; University of Utah; 9/29/2002)
• Cole McDonald (Park City, UT; Wasatch Freestyle; University of Utah; 3/6/2003)
• Asher Michel (Winter Park, CO; Winter Park Competition Center; University of Utah; 12/9/2005)
• Dylan Walczyk (Rochester, NY; Ski & Snowboard Club Vail; 6/25/1993)
• Landon Wendler (Steamboat Springs, CO; Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club; Los Angeles Film School; 10/12/2000)

*Newly named to the Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team

FOLLOW THE STIFEL U.S. SKI TEAM
Instagram: @usskiteam 
Facebook: @usskiandsnowboard
TikTok: @usskiandsnowboard
X: @usskiteam
Threads: @usskiteam 
YouTube: @USSkiSnowboardTeam

###

FOR MORE INFORMATION 
Ryan Odeja - Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team Press Officer
[email protected] 

Park City, UT (May 6, 2026) - U.S. Ski & Snowboard officially announces the six athletes nominated to the 2026-27 Toyota U.S. Para Snowboard Team across all classifications and disciplines. 

U.S. Ski & Snowboard announces its teams in two phases: nomination and acceptance. The athletes are formally nominated to the Toyota U.S. Para Snowboard Team in May. Pending their acceptance of the nomination and adherence to the team expectations outlined in team criteria, athletes will be officially announced to the team in October 2026. 

2026 Paralympic gold and silver medalist and 2025-26 banked slalom, snowboard cross and overall Crystal Globe winner Noah Elliott will lead the team into the season alongside Kate Delson, who also took home a gold and silver medal in her Paralympic debut, as well as all three Globes. Also headlining the team is the most decorated Para snowboard athlete of all time, Brenna Huckaby, who earned a bronze medal at the 2026 Paralympics in Italy. Jackie Hamwey is a new face to celebrate on the team this season, making her Paralympic debut in 2026 as well as her maiden World Cup podium. 

2026-27 Toyota U.S. Para Snowboard Team
(Hometown; Club; College; Birthdate)

A TEAM
Women

• Kate Delson (San Diego, CA; Team Utah Snowboarding; 5/5/2005)
• Brenna Huckaby (Baton Rouge, LA; Team Utah Snowboarding; 1/22/1996)

Men

• Noah Elliott (St. Charles, MO; DeVry University; 7/12/1997)
• Zach Miller (Silverthorne, CO; Adaptive Action Sports; DeVry University; 3/10/1999)

B TEAM
Men

• Joe Pleban (Fredericksburg, VA; Adaptive Action Sports; Christopher Newport University; 8/7/1990)*

D TEAM
Women

• Jackie Hamwey (Boston, MA; Team Utah Snowboarding; Northeastern University; 3/28/1989)*

*Newly named to the Toyota U.S. Para Snowboard Team

FOLLOW THE TOYOTA U.S. PARA SNOWBOARD TEAM
Instagram: @usparaskisnowboard 
Facebook: @usskiandsnowboard
TikTok: @usskiandsnowboard
X: @usskiteam
Threads: @usskiteam 

###

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Ryan Odeja - Toyota U.S. Para Snowboard Team Press Officer
[email protected] 

Park City, UT (May 6, 2026) – U.S. Ski & Snowboard announced the 37 athletes who have been nominated to the 2026-27 Stifel U.S. Freeski Team rosters. All athletes qualified for the team based on the predetermined slopestyle/big air and halfpipe team criteria.

U.S. Ski & Snowboard announces its teams in two phases: nomination and acceptance. The athletes are formally nominated to the Stifel U.S. Freeski Team in May. Pending their acceptance of the nomination and adherence to the team expectations outlined in team criteria, athletes will be officially announced to the team in October 2026.

2026 Olympic gold medalist Alex Ferreira returns to the Stifel U.S. Freeski Halfpipe Team after completing his Olympic medal set in Livigno. Ferreira is joined by his 2026 Olympic teammates Nick Goepper, Hunter Hess and Birk Irving. New to the pro halfpipe team are Nick Geiser and 2026 Olympian Kate Gray. The next generation of halfpipe skiers are on the rise, with four new rookies added to the team: Hunter Maytin, Junior Worlds champions Alexander Swedenborg and Lainey Belle Steen, and 2026 Olympian Abby Winterberger.

On the slopestyle and big air side, 2026 Olympic silver medalists Alex Hall and Mac Forehand lead the way. They are joined by 2022 big air silver medalist and 2026 Natural Selection Ski champion Colby Stevenson. 2026 Olympian Avery Krumme earned her pro team promotion after her performances last season. Joining the rookie team are Marty Kingston, Lainey Belle Steen and Beau Woodring.

The Stifel U.S. Freeski Team will have a full season this year, with multiple expected stops in the U.S.

STIFEL U.S. FREESKI TEAM

(Hometown; Club; College; USASA Series; Birthdate)

HALFPIPE
PRO TEAM
Women

• Hanna Faulhaber (Carbondale, CO; Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club; Colorado Mountain College; Rocky Mountain Series; 9/4/2004)
• Kate Gray (Crowley Lake, CA; Mammoth Mountain Freeski Team; Unbound Series; 6/29/2006)*
• Svea Irving (Winter Park, CO; Winter Park Freeski Team; University of Colorado Boulder; Rocky Mountain Series; 2/27/2002)
• Riley Jacobs (Oak Creek, CO; Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club; University of Colorado Denver; Rocky Mountain Series; 8/14/2003) 

Men

• Tristan Feinberg (Aspen, CO; Rocky Mountain Series; 4/23/2003)
• Alex Ferreira (Aspen, CO; Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club; Aspen/Snowmass Series; 8/14/1994)
• Nick Geiser (Carbondale, CO; Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club; Colorado Mountain College; Aspen/Snowmass Series; 10/4/2004)*
• Nick Goepper (Lawrenceburg, IN; Cork Tech Freeski; Rocky Mountain Series; 3/14/1994)
• Hunter Hess (Bend, OR; Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation; Salt Lake Community College; Central Oregon Series; 10/1/1998)
• Birk Irving (Winter Park, CO; Winter Park Freeski Team; Rocky Mountain Series; 7/26/1999)
• Matthew Labaugh (Avon, CO; Ski & Snowboard Club Vail; Colorado Mountain College; Rocky Mountain Series; 1/5/2004)*

ROOKIE TEAM
Women

• Keva Kelly (Truckee, CA; Olympic Valley Freestyle Freeride Team; North Lake Series; 12/23/2010)
• Lainey Belle Steen (Silverthorne, CO; Team Summit Colorado/Cork Tech Freeski; Rocky Mountain Series; 11/7/2011)**
• Abby Winterberger (Truckee, CA; Olympic Valley Freestyle Freeride Team; North Lake Series; 5/1/2010)**

Men

• Ben Fethke (Boise, ID; Park City Ski & Snowboard; Big Mountain West Series;  4/14/2006)
• Hunter Maytin (Aspen, CO; Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club; Aspen/Snowmass Series; 4/1/2008)**
• Cael McCarthy (Steamboat Springs CO; Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club; Rocky Mountain Series; 5/18/2005)
• Kai Morris (Aspen, CO; Pro Team Foundation; Rocky Mountain Series; 3/22/2004)
• Alexander Swedenborg (Fort Worth, TX; Cork Tech Freeski; Big Mountain West Series; 2/17/2009)**

SLOPESTYLE & BIG AIR
PRO TEAM
Women

• Ella Andrews (Northampton, MA; Killington Mountain School; Southern Vermont Series; 2/23/2007)
• Marin Hamill (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; University of Utah; Big Mountain West Series; 4/5/2001)
• Rell Harwood (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; University of Utah; Big Mountain West Series; 6/1/2001)
• Grace Henderson (Madbury, NH; Waterville Valley BBTS; University of Utah; New Hampshire Series; 4/28/2001)
• Avery Krumme (Squamish, British Columbia; BC Freestyle Team; 8/23/2008)*

Men

• Mac Forehand (Winhall, VT; Stratton Mountain School; Southern Vermont Series; 8/4/2001)
• Alex Hall (Salt Lake City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; University of Utah; Big Mountain West Series; 9/21/1998)
• Hunter Henderson (Madbury, NH; Waterville Valley BBTS; University of Utah; New Hampshire Series; 12/28/2002)
• Troy Podmilsak (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; Big Mountain West Series; 8/23/2004)
• Konnor Ralph (Helena, MT; Wy’East Mountain Academy; Salt Lake Community College; Mt. Hood Series; 1/27/2003)
• Colby Stevenson (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; University of Utah; Big Mountain West Series; 10/3/1997)

ROOKIE TEAM
Women

• Lainey Belle Steen (Silverthorne, CO; Team Summit Colorado/Cork Tech Freeski; Rocky Mountain Series; 11/7/2011)**
• Beau Woodring (Sun Valley, ID; Rocky Mountain Series; 3/27/2013)**

Men

• Anders Chapman (Hood River, OR; Wy’East Mountain Academy; Mt. Hood Series; 10/7/2006)
• Marty Kingston (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; Big Mountain West Series; 8/29/2007)**
• Hugh MacMenamin (Hudson, WI; Wy’East Mountain Academy; Mt. Hood Series; 1/23/2006)
• Henry Townshend (Park City, UT; Park City Ski & Snowboard; Big Mountain West Series; 2/16/2006)
• Walker Woodring (Sun Valley, ID; Rocky Mountain Series; 3/13/2010)

* promoted to Pro Team

** newly named to the Stifel U.S. Freeski Team

Follow the Stifel U.S. Freeski Team
Instagram: @usskiteam
Facebook: @usskiandsnowboard
TikTok: @usskiandsnowboard
X: @usskiteam
Threads: @usskiteam