U.S. Ski & Snowboard Unveils New Regional Model for Alpine Development

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Ryder Sarchett 2024 Junior World GS champion Photo: Photo by Nils Louna/Agence Zoom

U.S. Ski & Snowboard Unveils New Regional Model for Alpine Development

PARK CITY, Utah (Feb. 27, 2025) — U.S. Ski & Snowboard is launching a revamped Alpine Development program to strengthen the pipeline to the World Cup. The 2025-26 model expands regional training and competition opportunities, providing greater flexibility for athletes to enter at different stages of their development.

A Regional Approach to Development

The new structure establishes Regional Development Teams for top-performing 14- to 21-year-old athletes, replacing the D Team, which was eliminated in October. These teams will provide regional, national, and international training and racing opportunities, giving more athletes exposure at a high level.

Athletes excelling in FIS competitions will gain focused performance opportunities, creating a clear pathway to the Stifel U.S. Ski Team. The flexible selection model allows opportunities for late-developing athletes based on recent results.

“We are very excited about these changes and want to say thank you to the club and program leaders who have provided valuable insight and feedback as we’ve developed this program,” said Chip Knight, Alpine Development Director at U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “We will continue to seek to improve and fine-tune our efforts and always welcome feedback. Together, as a nation, we can provide best-in-class ski racing experiences and opportunities for the champions of tomorrow.”

Key Program Enhancements

• Performance-Based Regional Teams – Top junior athletes will be selected by region.
• Expanded Training Opportunities – Increased regional, national, and international camps.
• Dedicated Coaching Staff – Each region will have full-time men’s and women’s coaches, with two also serving as national development coaches.
• Pathway to the National Team – Athletes excelling in NorAm, Europa Cup, and World Cup events will progress toward the Stifel U.S. Ski Team.
• Physical & Injury Support – Strength, conditioning, and sports medicine resources for injured athletes.
• Collegiate Integration – College athletes will receive elite-level training within their regions.
• Financial Assistance – Top performers will receive funding to offset costs.
• Regional Program Rebranding – A stronger, unified identity for regional programs.

Building Depth for Future Success

The updated model prioritizes multi-discipline development over early specialization, aiming to build a deeper talent pool for elite competition.

“To be successful on the World Cup, we needed to re-look at our development program,” said Anouk Patty, Chief of Sport at U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “By injecting coaches and capital into the regions and providing performance-focused programming for the top development athletes, we will yield a denser pool of multi-disciplinary athletes making it to the top.”

2025 Regional Team Criteria & Selection Process

Rigorous Standards, Discretionary Flexibility

Ski Racing Media confirmed with Chip Knight that Regional Team selection criteria are intentionally challenging to ensure that only the most competitive athletes are named and receive funding. While discretionary participation remains an option, all camp rosters will remain small to maximize training quality and athlete development.

When applying the new criteria to past seasons, U.S. Ski & Snowboard determined that 8-10 athletes per gender would have been nominated and funded in recent years. However, discretionary participation will play a significant role in many project rosters, allowing flexibility for promising athletes.

“It’s difficult to predict how these criteria will influence athlete decisions,” Knight noted. “But the benchmarks are high and should help discourage attempts at manipulation.”

2025 Regional Team Criteria and Coaching

The new regional model emphasizes performance-based selection, considering NorAm, U.S. Alpine Championships, U18/U16 Nationals results, and FIS rankings. Discretionary selections will provide opportunities for athletes with unique circumstances, such as injury, who may not meet strict criteria but demonstrate strong potential.

U.S. Ski & Snowboard is finalizing regional coaching positions. The National Governing Body will employ two Development Team coaches from each region. Club coaches will also be invited to contribute to the projects, ensuring collaboration in athlete development.

This structured regional approach aims to strengthen the pipeline to the Stifel U.S. Ski Team, providing top young racers with elite training opportunities and a clear path to success.

Discover how U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s revamped Alpine Development Program strengthens the pathway to the Stifel U.S. Ski Team. Learn about the current structure, guiding principles, goals, strategy, and regional programming and costs. Click below to explore the details.

This project-based à la carte program is designed to adapt to athletes’ needs, with the predicted cost based on full participation.