Otto Tschudi’s Endowment Elevates DU Ski Team to New Heights

Tschudi then, DU Ski Team, Tschudi now, Team photo Ron Knabenbauer

A Legacy of Success

Otto Tschudi, Managing Director at Stifel, a former DU Pioneer skier and successful business leader, has donated significantly to the University of Denver (DU). His generous gift will endow the Otto Tschudi Head Alpine Ski Coach position, supporting DU student-athletes and helping them succeed for many years. Tschudi, a DU alum (BSBA ’75), excelled in his ski competitions and professional career. Born in Norway, he was recruited by legendary ski coach Willy Schaeffler. He competed for the Norway national team from 1964 to 1972, participating in two Winter Olympics and earning top finishes in World Cup slalom. At DU, he won five NCAA titles, including the downhill championships in 1970, 1971, and 1972 and the slalom and combined championships in 1971.

Memorable Race and Recruitment

In 1969, Tschudi had his best professional race at the FIS World Cup circuit in Kitzbühel, Austria. Despite starting 48th on a challenging iced course, he placed 10th. After the race, University of Denver ski coach Willy Schaeffler approached him. Initially uninterested in school, Tschudi was convinced after discussing balancing collegiate races with World Cup competitions. This pivotal moment led him to DU.

Impact on DU Athletics

“This gift by Otto Tschudi to endow the head alpine ski coach position is both transformational for our student-athletes and a fitting legacy,” says Josh Berlo, Denver Vice Chancellor for Athletics and Ritchie Center Operations. “It will elevate the support for our alpine ski program and help ensure sustained excellence.”

Continued Support and Vision

Tschudi’s involvement with DU extends beyond his time as a student-athlete. He has served on the Board of Trustees since 1992 and played a crucial role in enhancing the university’s ski racing prominence. More than a decade ago, he envisioned a dynamic athletic and outdoor experience for all students, which led to the creation of the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus.

Otto Tschudi’s Contributions

“Otto has been part of the program for a long time. He was an athlete at first, and then when the ski team was cut back in the ’80s and ’90s, Otto was instrumental in bringing the ski team back. He’s been involved ever since, guiding our student-athletes. Overall, DU skiing would not be where it is if Otto hadn’t been part of it. We’re very lucky to have Otto as part of our team,” says Joonas Räsänen, the current head alpine coach.

Excitement for Additional Financial Resources

Räsänen adds, “We’re happy to hear about the additional resource the new endowment will provide. With the state of college athletics, relying only partially on the university for all the needed resource increases is wonderful. His contribution will allow us to flourish for many years to come. We’re excited about its impact on improving our program.”

Maximizing the Use of New Resources

“We will carefully explore how to use and maximize the new resources,” Räsänen continues. “We’re excited that Otto shows confidence in the coaching staff and the program; it makes us proud. We intend to make the best use of the new resource. We’re ecstatic and excited to see how it will help us improve the team.”

A Sustained Legacy

“Otto’s visionary gift creates an unmistakable legacy here at DU,” says Val Otten, Denver Senior Vice Chancellor for Advancement. “By investing in our championship programs and opportunities for our student-athletes, he strengthens one of the key priorities of ‘The Denver Difference’ campaign.”

Why Otto Tschudi Believes in DU and DU Skiing

“College sports is not for everyone, but for those who can balance academics and athletics, it’s an incredible foundation. I’ve seen too many athletes who didn’t get an education and ended up without a stable future. DU ensures our athletes excel on the slopes and in the classroom,” Tschudi explains.

Fighting for DU Skiing’s Existence

“In the 1980s, many colleges, including DU, faced economic problems, leading to cost-cutting measures that affected athletics. I knew the value of skiing to DU’s identity and marketing. When the opportunity came in 1992 to reinstate the program, I couldn’t refuse. Athletics is our front door, and DU skiing needed to be part of that,” Tschudi recalls.

Reviving the DU Ski Team

“When DU’s ski team was disbanded from 1982 to 1992, I knew we had to bring it back. I joined the Board of Trustees, and our first task was reestablishing the ski program. We recruited Coach Kurt Schmitz and worked tirelessly to rebuild the team. It wasn’t just about skiing; it was about restoring a vital part of DU’s spirit and tradition,” says Tschudi.

Importance of Education for Athletes

“I’ve always believed that you need a strong educational base. Whether you’re in business, the arts, or sports, you need to learn the basics. At DU, our ski team members are not only great athletes but also excellent students, with an average GPA of around 3.7. This dual excellence is what makes DU special,” Tschudi emphasizes.

First Endowed Ski Coach

Joonas Räsänen, the current head coach, will be the first to hold the endowed position. He is entering his fourth season in 2024-25 and has guided DU to team podium finishes at the NCAA Championships in each of the past three years.

Supporting the Pioneers

Fans interested in supporting the Pioneers Athletic Fund can donate to help provide first-class resources for student-athletes, enhancing their academic and athletic experiences.

Information source Interviews with Joonas Räsänen & Otto Tschudi and the University of Denver press release