U.S. Womenleading the Charge in Skiing and Snowboarding's Latest Phase
In the world of winter sports, U.S. Ski & Snowboard stands out as a trailblazer, thanks in part to the significant contributions of women in leadership and athlete support.
The organization's financial stability is a testament to a dedicated board of trustees, long-term donor relationships, and a fundraising team with many members serving over ten years. But it's the women who are making a real impact, driving change and shaping the future of the sport.
At the helm is Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. With a background in global sports, Goldschmidt aims to professionalize systems and resources, increase athlete visibility, and ensure financial sustainability through growing sponsorships and philanthropy for efficient reinvestment.
Trisha Worthington, the Chief Revenue and Philanthropic Officer, brings decades of experience in Olympic fundraising to the table. Philanthropy accounts for about one-third of U.S. Ski & Snowboard's revenue, with Worthington stressing its critical role in fueling Team USA's athletic programs.
Women also play a crucial role in athlete development. Anouk Patty, the Chief of Sport, is focused on creating a strong culture and preparation for the Winter Olympics. Patty, a former U.S. Alpine Ski Team member and NCAA champion, is committed to nurturing a supportive environment for athletes, rather than fixating on specific medal targets.
Leaders like Cami Thompson have shaped U.S. cross-country skiing with decades of coaching, governance, and grassroots work. Thompson's efforts have helped produce top international athletes and improve the nation’s global standing.
Female athletes are also driving change. Jessie Diggins, a cross-country skier and the most accomplished in U.S. history, with three Olympic medals and seven World Championship medals, is preparing for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics, aiming to amplify the visibility and impact of her sport.
Mikaela Shiffrin, a successful alpine skier and the most decorated in World Cup history, is another trailblazer. Her "Moving Right Along" YouTube series, supported by Stifel, provides behind-the-scenes access to her personal life and athletic journey.
U.S. Ski & Snowboard has also partnered with TOGETHXR to launch a mini-docuseries called "The Drop In", highlighting up-and-coming women snowboard athletes.
Women at U.S. Ski & Snowboard are also championing equity and community engagement. Tricia Mangan organizes "Girls in Sport" day, which engages young girls in skiing opportunities. This broader impact fosters participation and growth in the sport pipeline.
Moreover, women in U.S. Ski & Snowboard and the broader U.S. Olympic movement have been recognised for their leadership in advancing maternity health and gender equity, creating pathways for women to succeed in sports and governance. This reflects a cultural shift supporting inclusivity and equity within the organizational and athlete support structures.
In summary, women at U.S. Ski & Snowboard hold influential leadership roles, contribute vital support for athlete development, and champion equity and community engagement, collectively helping to elevate the sport at all levels. Goldschmidt sums it up perfectly: "Team USA isn't a team people love to root against, we're often everyone's second favorite team. Athletes support each other across disciplines, and there's camaraderie at every event."
In the realm of business and finance, the financial stability of U.S. Ski & Snowboard can be attributed to a board of trustees, long-term donor relationships, and a fundraising team exhibiting leadership and dedication.
On the sports front, women like Mikaela Shiffrin and Jessie Diggins, with their achievements in alpine skiing and cross-country skiing respectively, are driving change, amplifying the visibility and impact of their sport for the Winter Olympics, such as Milano Cortina 2026.
