Park City, Utah (May 19, 2023) – “U.S. Ski & Snowboard is proud to announce the recognition of several exceptional individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the world of elite skiing and snowboarding. This year’s recipients have showcased exceptional talent, dedication and support, furthering the growth and success of skiing and snowboarding worldwide.”
Annika Belshaw – Ski Jumping Athlete of the Year
Annika Belshaw had a breakout 2022-23 season at the World Cup level. In the first World Cup event of the season, Annika finished in 20th place in Lillehammer, Norway, which set the tone for the remainder of her season. She went on to finish in the top 30 at the World Cup on nine separate occasions, including three top 20 finishes and a career-best 19th place in Rasnov, Romania. Annika has become a leader on her team with her tireless work ethic and determination, which led the Women’s Ski Jumping team to their most successful season since 2017.
“I feel honored to win this award, and I’m grateful for all of the support this past season,” said Belshaw.
Stephen Schumann – Nordic Combined Athlete of the Year
Stephen Schumann had his best season yet for Men’s Nordic Combined in 2022-23, starting it off by winning a bronze medal at the 2022 U.S. Men’s Nordic Combined National Championships. Stephen scored individual World Cup points three times this past season, putting on an impressive performance in Seefeld, Austria, finishing in the top 30 during all three days of competition. Stephen also represented the United States for the first time in his career at the 2023 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Planica, Slovenia, this past season.
“I’m honored to win this award, especially seeing the great performances of my teammates this past year,” said Schumann. “Of course none of it could be done without my teammates, coaches, family and other supporters, and I would like to extend a huge thank you to them. All that said, I’m super excited to carry this momentum into the future.”
Trevor Edlund – Ski Jumping/Nordic International Coach of the Year
In the 2022-23 season, Trevor Edlund of USA Nordic took on a huge task as the lead assistant for both the Men’s and Women’s Ski Jumping teams. Despite having to manage his time between both teams, Trevor took the task at hand in stride and proved to be one of the most invaluable members of the team. Trevor’s tireless work ethic, enthusiasm, humbleness and curiosity brings spirit and energy to the Ski Jumping community.
“It was an honor for me to accept this award,” said Edlund. “Ski Jumping is my biggest passion, and I couldn’t imagine working with better coaches, athletes and mentors. I’m excited for the future of Ski Jumping in the United States, and continuing to showcase our hard work and passion on the world stage.”
Adam Loomis – Ski Jumping/Nordic Combined Domestic Coach of the Year
USA Nordic Board Member and Park City Ski and Snowboard Coach Adam Loomis has done an outstanding job in the development of the next generation of Ski Jumpers and Nordic Combined skiers in Park City. He is a role model to all the young jumpers, not only as a technically excellent coach, but as a former nordic combined athlete and current summer and winter endurance athlete.
NYSEF – Ski Jumping/Nordic Combined Club of the Year
Athletes of all age groups on the New York Ski Educational Foundation (NYSEF) team had a successful year, walking away with several podiums in ski jumping and nordic combined, with two nordic combined athletes and one ski jumper selected to represent the USA at World Juniors. To cap off a successful season, a NYSEF nordic combined athlete won a medal at the World University Games.
Per U.S. Ski & Snowboard / Leann Bentley: U.S. Ski & Snowboard Recognizes Outstanding Athletes, Coaches, Clubs and Leaders at Annual Service to Sport Awards
