Opportunity Knocks: U.S. Collegiate Skiers Invited to Pursue 2027 Winter World University Games in China

Featured Image: Former University of Colorado head coach Richard Rokos with CU athletes Thea Grosvold and Erika Ghent Gilbert at the FISU World University Games.

The 2027 Winter World University Games will take place in China from January 10–25, 2027, giving collegiate alpine athletes a rare chance to represent the United States on one of the world’s largest international stages outside the Olympic Winter Games.

For more than 60 years, U.S. alpine skiers have competed at the Winter Universiade. Since 1960, American athletes have earned podium finishes while gaining valuable international experience in a multi-sport Games environment.

The Winter World University Games offer much more than competition. Athletes live in a village setting, participate in opening and closing ceremonies, and compete against top university athletes from around the globe. For many, the event serves as a stepping stone toward future World Cup and Olympic opportunities.

At a time when collegiate alpine skiing faces challenges across the country, maintaining a U.S. presence at international university competition remains important. The Games provide visibility for the sport, create opportunities for developing athletes, and strengthen the connection between collegiate racing and the international pipeline.

Proposed U.S. Alpine Team

The current proposal calls for a technical-event-focused team consisting of up to six women and six men.

Competition Schedule

January 18 – Arrival

January 19 – Training

January 20 – Women’s Giant Slalom

January 21 – Men’s Giant Slalom

January 22 – Team Parallel Event

January 23 – Women’s Slalom

January 24 – Men’s Slalom

January 25 – Departure

Estimated Costs

BTI, the organization responsible for U.S. participation in Universiade competition since 2015, is coordinating the alpine project.

The Games package currently costs approximately $2,995 per person. Airfare is expected to add roughly $2,000, bringing the total estimated cost to approximately $5,000 per athlete, coach, or official.

This project with be self funded.

Call for Interest

Coaches, program directors, administrators, and collegiate athletes are encouraged to express interest and share this opportunity within their networks.

Organizers are currently gathering participation estimates to determine the size and feasibility of the U.S. alpine delegation. Programs interested in identifying potential athletes or learning more about the project should begin discussions now as planning moves forward.

For student-athletes seeking international racing experience and the opportunity to wear the U.S. uniform, the Winter World University Games remain one of the most significant competitive opportunities available outside the World Cup and Olympic Winter Games.