Latest news with #SophieGoldschmidt
Forbes
02-08-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The Women Driving A New Era In U.S. Ski & Snowboard
With a history steeped in excellence and Olympic achievement, U.S. Ski & Snowboard has long been synonymous with winter sports success. But behind the podiums and highlight reels is a powerful story of transformation, one driven by bold leadership, forward-thinking partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to the athletes who risk it all on snow and ice. At the center of this evolution is a team of women, both in the boardroom and on the slopes, driving the organization forward. At the helm is Sophie Goldschmidt, the President and CEO, a veteran of global sports who is building a future-focused vision rooted in athlete support, equity, and expanded visibility. Helping bring that vision to life is Anouk Patty, Chief of Sport, who brings a rare combination of athletic and executive experience. A former U.S. Alpine Ski Team member, Patty raced for Dartmouth College, where she was a three-time All-American and won the NCAA Skiing Championship in 1988. Trisha Worthington, Chief Revenue and Philanthropic Officer, provides the vital financial support behind the scenes. With decades of experience in Olympic fundraising, she has been instrumental in ensuring athletes receive the resources necessary to excel. From 1995 to 2007, she led fundraising initiatives that launched the $60 million Legacy Fund, and after founding the Park City Community Foundation, she returned in 2014 to continue driving support for the team. Among the athletes are some of winter sport's biggest names. Mikaela Shiffrin, the most successful alpine skier in World Cup history and widely considered one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time. Jessie Diggins, the most accomplished cross-country skier in U.S. history, with three Olympic medals, seven World Championship medals, and three overall World Cup titles. And Brenna Huckaby, a trailblazing para snowboarder who won gold at both the 2018 and 2022 Winter Paralympics, was the first Paralympian featured in Sports Illustrated's Swimsuit Issue, and recently won the 2024 ESPY for Best Athlete with a Disability. U.S. Ski & Snowboard Center Athlete Support Before stepping into her role as Chief of Sport for U.S. Ski & Snowboard, Anouk Patty carved her path on the slopes as a U.S. Alpine Ski Team athlete in the late '80s and early '90s and an NCAA champion at Dartmouth College. After more than two decades in corporate leadership, she returned to the sports world with a mission: to ensure athletes have a voice in the system she once navigated. 'When I was an athlete, we didn't have a say in decisions. Now, I make sure they do,' she says. Her lived experience builds trust with athletes and shapes a leadership approach rooted in inclusion and balance. Chief Revenue and Philanthropic Officer Trisha Worthington has spent 21 years with the organization across two tenures. After helping launch and grow the Park City Community Foundation, she returned to U.S. Ski & Snowboard in 2014 to lead philanthropic strategy. Under her leadership, the Foundation has expanded donor engagement and increased support for athlete programs, training, and well-being. Goldschmidt describes the organization's approach as 'one of the most well-rounded athlete support systems I've seen across sports organizations.' On the sport side, Goldschmidt says, 'We fund everything—training, coaching, medical care, rehab, strength and conditioning, travel, lodging. It's all tailored to each sport and athlete, but these basics are foundational.' Off the snow, 'We offer comprehensive insurance and sports medicine, mental health initiatives like sports psychology and wellness care, plus career and education guidance through our Athlete Career & Education program.' This ACE program includes 'tuition support, internships, life coaching, and mentoring—pairing athletes with former competitors and generous donors.' 'We think of these supports as spokes on a wheel,' Goldschmidt says, 'each one adding value both to the athlete and the organization. It's a constantly evolving program, and we're committed to adding new elements as athletes' needs change.' U.S. Ski & Snowboard Ready For Milano Cortina 2026 As the countdown to the Milano Cortina 2026 begins, three of U.S. Ski & Snowboard's most accomplished athletes, Mikaela Shiffrin, Brenna Huckaby, and Jessie Diggins are preparing not only to compete but also to amplify the visibility and impact of their sports. Jessie Diggins, three-time World Cup Champion and the most decorated American cross-country skier, eagerly anticipates what she hopes will be her fourth Olympic Games with both excitement and gratitude. 'One of the things I'm most looking forward to is having my friends, family, and husband there,' she shares. 'The last Games were under strict COVID protocols, and we couldn't have anyone with us. So this time, I'm thrilled to share the experience.' More than 50 people, including her high school coach and even her grandma, who's been training just to cheer her on in person, plan to be there. While winning more medals remains a goal, Diggins sees the Games as a celebration of her long journey: 'It's a chance to share this journey with the people who've supported me the whole way.' For para snowboarder Brenna Huckaby, the 2026 Games represent both personal ambition and a larger mission. 'I'd love to medal in both of my events,' she says. 'That's the dream. But more than that, I want to give myself the best possible chance, put everything into training, preparation, and mindset. If I cross the finish line knowing I did that, I'll be proud, no matter the result.' Beyond her own competition, Huckaby embodies the spirit of advocacy for disability representation and equity in sports. 'There are generally two kinds of people: those who know what the Paralympics are, and those who've maybe heard of them but don't really understand them,' she explains. The Paralympic movement, she notes, is still young and evolving. 'Throughout my career, I've faced barriers to equality and fair competition. At some point, you have to decide: accept it as 'just the way it is,' or challenge it. I chose to challenge it.' Huckaby's fight to compete in 2022 was about more than medals, it was about visibility, equity, and changing the narrative for future generations. 'I do think we've made progress,' Huckaby says, 'but there will be more roadblocks. Whether it's me or someone else, the fight will continue, and I'm excited to see that change.' World No. 1 alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin looks ahead toward her fourth Olympic Games with a fresh and personal view of what success means. Reflecting on her enduring motivation, she shares, 'I get asked a lot: 'What are you still doing this for?' Not in a negative way, more like, 'What's still motivating you?' I don't operate based on chasing one big goal like a medal. Of course, results, Olympic medals, World Cup globes, records, they inspire me. But there's another layer of motivation: the joy of training, of making better turns, of seeing improvement year after year. That hasn't changed.' Building Visibility For US Ski & Snowboard Athletes For the athletes, Milano Cortina 2026 is not just about medals, it's about visibility, inclusion, and inspiring the next generation. Mikaela Shiffrin reflects candidly on the ongoing challenge of visibility for women and snow sport athletes. She acknowledges, 'Honestly, I don't think women or really any snow sport athletes get the visibility we've earned, especially on the global stage.' Complicated broadcast rights and fragmented streaming platforms make it difficult for fans to access competitions. 'If people can't watch, it's hard to build a fan base or tell athlete stories,' she explains. Yet Shiffrin remains hopeful, noting that 'there's work being done behind the scenes with FIS and others to simplify broadcasting, but it's a multi-year process. Hopefully in the next 5 to 10 years, we'll see progress.' In the U.S., visibility has improved thanks to partnerships such as the creation of the Stifel Snow Show on NBC, which provides regular exposure for winter sports throughout the season. Shiffrin credits Stifel's support for her 'Moving Right Along' YouTube series, offering fans behind-the-scenes access to her injury and comeback, team moments, and mental health challenges. This season, she plans to expand the series with a podcast-style format to highlight other athletes' stories. 'That kind of support makes a real difference,' she says. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling beyond just race results: 'The Olympics will always draw big attention, but if people already know who we are and what we've gone through, it adds so much more meaning.' Building on this focus on storytelling, US Ski & Snowboard partnered with TOGETHXR to launch a mini-docuseries called 'The Drop In' highlighting up-and-coming women snowboard athletes. Goldschmidt explains that the collaboration offers 'behind-the-scenes access and storytelling that goes beyond competition results.' TOGETHXR helps the organization share real-time moments, amplify big results, and tell stories throughout the season. Goldschmidt adds, 'Our goal is to be a year‑round content engine, not just during winter. We want these stories to reach broader audiences via platforms that align with Team USA and the next generation of fans.' Fueling Team USA's Future Through Philanthropy US Ski & Snowboard operates without government funding, making philanthropy essential, it accounts for about one-third of the organization's revenue. Chief Revenue and Philanthropic Officer Trisha Worthington highlights philanthropy's critical role in fueling Team USA's athletic programs. 'Supporting the Olympic mission demands significant resources,' she explains. 'We'll spend an extra $2 million this year just to get our 10 teams to the Games, covering flights, lodging, meals, everything.' Since Sophie Goldschmidt joined as President and CEO, corporate sponsorship revenue has nearly tripled, but Worthington stresses, 'Philanthropy remains critical.' Stability comes from a deeply engaged board of trustees, long-term donor relationships, and a fundraising team with many members serving over ten years. Guided by Goldschmidt's bold vision, US Ski & Snowboard focuses on three key priorities: advancing athletic and operational excellence by professionalizing systems and resources; increasing athlete visibility to build personal brands and commercial opportunities; and ensuring financial sustainability by growing sponsorships and philanthropy for efficient reinvestment. 'Our athletes are among the best in the world—brave, innovative, and fearless,' Goldschmidt says. 'In my experience across sports like tennis, golf, and surfing, I've rarely seen athletes push limits like this.' She adds, 'Donations directly fuel Team USA. Investing in us means investing in American snow sports and the next generation of athletes.' Vision And Heart Driving U.S. Ski & Snowboard Forward Goldschmidt sets the tone as Milano Cortina 2026 fast approaches. 'Team USA will make up over 60% of the winter team, and the eyes of the world will be on us,' she says. But the focus isn't on chasing medals. 'We focus on consistent performance across World Cups and seasons. The athletes who rise to the top at the end of the season are the ones who deliver at the Olympics.' Goldschmidt highlights the unique camaraderie within snow sports. '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.' She sees the Olympics as a moment to showcase that spirit even more. Anouk Patty, echoes this mindset. 'While we're not fixating on specific medal targets daily, we're focused on culture and preparation. The Winter Olympics is in Italy, one of the most stunning places on Earth. To be there, surrounded by our athletes and staff, all aligned under one goal, is incredibly powerful. I can't wait.' For Trisha Worthington, the Games carry a personal meaning. 'Like Anouk, I'm thrilled the Games are back in Europe. But for me, it's also about the relationships. I've watched many of these athletes grow up. To see them on the Olympic stage feels like watching my own kids compete. It's emotional and deeply rewarding.'
Associated Press
13-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
U.S. Ski & Snowboard, Stifel Extend Groundbreaking Title Partnership Through 2034
PARK CITY, Utah and ST. LOUIS, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- U.S. Ski & Snowboard and Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) are proud to announce a landmark renewal of their partnership from May 2026 through April 2034. This unprecedented 8-year agreement marks the most expansive partnership in U.S. Ski & Snowboard's history and reflects a bold, shared vision through the next three Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Under the renewed agreement, Stifel will be the title partner of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team, supporting the alpine, cross country, freeski, moguls, aerials, ski jumping, nordic combined and Para alpine teams, as well as the exclusive financial services partner of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. 'As we look ahead to three Olympic and Paralympic Games, including a home Salt Lake City-Utah 2034 Games, this extended partnership with Stifel represents a generational investment in our teams and our athletes,' said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. 'Stifel's support has also enabled us to implement innovative new initiatives that are having a direct impact on the organization. From World Cup podiums to grassroots development, Stifel's belief in the power of sport and our athletes has been a game-changer.' Since launching the partnership in 2022, Stifel's support of U.S. Ski & Snowboard has driven record-breaking performances, increased the visibility of U.S. athletes and fueled the growth of competitive skiing in the U.S. Over the initial three years of partnership, the Stifel U.S. Ski Team has achieved historic success both athletically and as an organization. Organizationally, U.S. Ski & Snowboard has expanded its World Cup footprint in North America with the support of Stifel, bringing the total amount of World Cups from four to a record 11 in 2024-25. In the same season, the organization's streaming and broadcast audience has doubled, earned media surpassed 30 billion impressions and social media impressions increased 70%. 2024 was also a record-breaking year for Stifel, highlighting the strength and balance of a diversified business model, achieving net revenues of $4.97 billion, the highest in the firm's history, and delivering a 23% return on average tangible equity, with non-GAAP net earnings of $756 million, or $6.81 per share – a 46% increase from the prior year. And finally, over the year, Stifel's share price increased 56.4%. 'The news of Stifel's renewal as title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team is so incredible,' said two-time Olympic champion Mikaela Shiffrin. 'Ron (Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel) and Stifel have shown amazing support for snow sports and are truly invested in the stories of our athletes and the growth of our sports, which has translated into more success on the mountain.' 'Stifel has opened up so many opportunities for us as athletes and humans looking to reach our full potential, and I am so grateful for their support and proud to be part of their team,' said Olympic champion cross country skier Jessie Diggins. 'Their commitment to helping us reach the top level is incredible and makes all the difference!' 'The Stifel U.S. Ski Team partnership continuation is monumental for both parties,' said two-time Olympic medalist freeskier Alex Ferreira. 'It is where success meets success. I am humbled and grateful to benefit from all sides.' Stifel also launched innovative programs around the increased domestic World Cup events, including the Stifel HERoic Cup, designed around U.S. Ski & Snowboard's HERoic initiative celebrating women's sport. Stifel also invested in the Stifel Bibbo Award for the athlete who moves up the most in ranks in alpine World Cup races, and continues to support the Stifel Success Tour, development-level NorAm races in the U.S. that feed the Stifel U.S. Ski Team pipeline. Additionally, Stifel supported the Stifel Snow Show, a weekly series on CNBC, Peacock and YouTube that highlighted the achievements and stories of U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes each week throughout the season. The Stifel brand will remain prominently displayed on team uniforms and event signage at US events, along with a continuation of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team branding across digital and broadcast platforms. Stifel will also support a new performance bonus program for athletes and coaches based on key results during the season. 'This partnership is about helping athletes reach their full potential,' said Ron Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel. 'As the firm Where Success Meets Success, we believe in backing those who strive for excellence—and that's exactly what these athletes do, every day. We're proud to support them not only as champions on the podium, but as role models, teammates and leaders who inspire us all.' QUOTES Mikaela Shiffrin, Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team The news of Stifel's renewal as title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team is so incredible. Ron and Stifel have shown amazing support for snow sports and truly are invested in the stories of our athletes and the growth of our sports which has translated into more success on the mountain. Jessie Diggins, Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team Stifel has opened up so many opportunities for us as athletes and humans looking to reach our full potential, and I am so grateful for their support and proud to be part of their team. Their commitment to helping us reach the top level is incredible and makes all the difference! Alex Ferreira, Stifel U.S. Freeski Team The Stifel U.S. Ski Team partnership continuation is monumental for both parties. It is where success meets success. I am humbled and grateful to benefit from all sides. Nick Page, Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team Thank you Stifel for all of your support - it means the world to have you in our corner and on our team. I'm looking forward to the future and our continued success in 2026. Niklas Malacinski, Stifel U.S. Nordic Combined Team Having Stifel step up as the title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Nordic Combined Team means the world to us. It's not just an investment in our sport but it's a belief in our potential. Their support gives us the opportunity to focus on training and competition so we can be at our best. We're proud to wear their name and represent the U.S. with everything we've got. Andrew Kurka, Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Ski Team Stifel has been huge supporter of the Para alpine team. Helping fund our development, pipeline and giving us the support we need to pursue our careers as athletes. Most Para sports aren't seen as equal opportunity athletic endeavors. But the fact that Stifel stands behind us, helping to fund our team. Shows they see the big picture and treat athletes on the US Ski team as more than just philanthropic endeavors. Tate Frantz, Stifel U.S. Ski Jumping Team Having Stifel come on as a title sponsor is a huge boost for our team. Their support means we can keep pushing the limits and representing our country at the highest level. It's exciting to have a partner that believes in our journey and wants to be part of the ride. ABOUT STIFEL Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) is a financial services holding company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, that conducts its banking, securities, and financial services business through several wholly owned subsidiaries. Stifel's broker-dealer clients are served in the United States through Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, including its Eaton Partners business division; Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.; Miller Buckfire & Co., LLC; and Stifel Independent Advisors, LLC; and in the United Kingdom and Europe through Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited. The Company's broker-dealer affiliates provide securities brokerage, investment banking, trading, investment advisory, and related financial services to individual investors, professional money managers, businesses, and municipalities. Stifel Bank and Stifel Bank & Trust offer a full range of consumer and commercial lending solutions. Stifel Trust Company, N.A. and Stifel Trust Company Delaware, N.A. offer trust and related services. To learn more about Stifel, please visit the Company's website at ABOUT U.S. SKI & SNOWBOARD U.S. Ski & Snowboard is the Olympic and Paralympic National Governing Body of ski and snowboard sports in the USA, based in Park City, Utah. Started in 1905, the organization now represents nearly 240 elite skiers and snowboarders competing on 10 teams: alpine, cross country, freestyle moguls, freestyle aerials, snowboard, freeski, nordic combined, ski jumping, Para alpine and Para snowboard. In addition to the elite teams, U.S. Ski & Snowboard also provides leadership and direction for tens of thousands of young skiers and snowboarders across the USA, encouraging and supporting them in achieving excellence. By empowering national teams, clubs, coaches, parents, officials, volunteers and fans, U.S. Ski & Snowboard is committed to the progression of its sports, athlete success and the value of team. For more information, visit FOR MORE INFORMATION Courtney Harkins U.S. Ski & Snowboard, Director of Marketing & Communications [email protected] Rhett Geraghty Stifel, Director, Advisor Recruiting & Brand Marketing [email protected]
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
U.S. Ski & Snowboard, Stifel Extend Groundbreaking Title Partnership Through 2034
The Landmark Renewal with Financial Services Partner is Largest Partnership in U.S. Ski & Snowboard History PARK CITY, Utah and ST. LOUIS, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- U.S. Ski & Snowboard and Stifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) are proud to announce a landmark renewal of their partnership from May 2026 through April 2034. This unprecedented 8-year agreement marks the most expansive partnership in U.S. Ski & Snowboard's history and reflects a bold, shared vision through the next three Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Under the renewed agreement, Stifel will be the title partner of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team, supporting the alpine, cross country, freeski, moguls, aerials, ski jumping, nordic combined and Para alpine teams, as well as the exclusive financial services partner of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. 'As we look ahead to three Olympic and Paralympic Games, including a home Salt Lake City-Utah 2034 Games, this extended partnership with Stifel represents a generational investment in our teams and our athletes,' said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. 'Stifel's support has also enabled us to implement innovative new initiatives that are having a direct impact on the organization. From World Cup podiums to grassroots development, Stifel's belief in the power of sport and our athletes has been a game-changer.' Since launching the partnership in 2022, Stifel's support of U.S. Ski & Snowboard has driven record-breaking performances, increased the visibility of U.S. athletes and fueled the growth of competitive skiing in the U.S. Over the initial three years of partnership, the Stifel U.S. Ski Team has achieved historic success both athletically and as an organization. Organizationally, U.S. Ski & Snowboard has expanded its World Cup footprint in North America with the support of Stifel, bringing the total amount of World Cups from four to a record 11 in 2024-25. In the same season, the organization's streaming and broadcast audience has doubled, earned media surpassed 30 billion impressions and social media impressions increased 70%. 2024 was also a record-breaking year for Stifel, highlighting the strength and balance of a diversified business model, achieving net revenues of $4.97 billion, the highest in the firm's history, and delivering a 23% return on average tangible equity, with non-GAAP net earnings of $756 million, or $6.81 per share – a 46% increase from the prior year. And finally, over the year, Stifel's share price increased 56.4%. 'The news of Stifel's renewal as title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team is so incredible,' said two-time Olympic champion Mikaela Shiffrin. 'Ron (Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel) and Stifel have shown amazing support for snow sports and are truly invested in the stories of our athletes and the growth of our sports, which has translated into more success on the mountain.' 'Stifel has opened up so many opportunities for us as athletes and humans looking to reach our full potential, and I am so grateful for their support and proud to be part of their team,' said Olympic champion cross country skier Jessie Diggins. 'Their commitment to helping us reach the top level is incredible and makes all the difference!' 'The Stifel U.S. Ski Team partnership continuation is monumental for both parties,' said two-time Olympic medalist freeskier Alex Ferreira. 'It is where success meets success. I am humbled and grateful to benefit from all sides.' Stifel also launched innovative programs around the increased domestic World Cup events, including the Stifel HERoic Cup, designed around U.S. Ski & Snowboard's HERoic initiative celebrating women's sport. Stifel also invested in the Stifel Bibbo Award for the athlete who moves up the most in ranks in alpine World Cup races, and continues to support the Stifel Success Tour, development-level NorAm races in the U.S. that feed the Stifel U.S. Ski Team pipeline. Additionally, Stifel supported the Stifel Snow Show, a weekly series on CNBC, Peacock and YouTube that highlighted the achievements and stories of U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes each week throughout the season. The Stifel brand will remain prominently displayed on team uniforms and event signage at US events, along with a continuation of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team branding across digital and broadcast platforms. Stifel will also support a new performance bonus program for athletes and coaches based on key results during the season. 'This partnership is about helping athletes reach their full potential,' said Ron Kruszewski, Chairman and CEO of Stifel. 'As the firm Where Success Meets Success, we believe in backing those who strive for excellence—and that's exactly what these athletes do, every day. We're proud to support them not only as champions on the podium, but as role models, teammates and leaders who inspire us all.' QUOTESMikaela Shiffrin, Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski TeamThe news of Stifel's renewal as title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team is so incredible. Ron and Stifel have shown amazing support for snow sports and truly are invested in the stories of our athletes and the growth of our sports which has translated into more success on the mountain. Jessie Diggins, Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski TeamStifel has opened up so many opportunities for us as athletes and humans looking to reach our full potential, and I am so grateful for their support and proud to be part of their team. Their commitment to helping us reach the top level is incredible and makes all the difference! Alex Ferreira, Stifel U.S. Freeski TeamThe Stifel U.S. Ski Team partnership continuation is monumental for both parties. It is where success meets success. I am humbled and grateful to benefit from all sides. Nick Page, Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team Thank you Stifel for all of your support - it means the world to have you in our corner and on our team. I'm looking forward to the future and our continued success in 2026. Niklas Malacinski, Stifel U.S. Nordic Combined TeamHaving Stifel step up as the title sponsor of the Stifel U.S. Nordic Combined Team means the world to us. It's not just an investment in our sport but it's a belief in our potential. Their support gives us the opportunity to focus on training and competition so we can be at our best. We're proud to wear their name and represent the U.S. with everything we've got. Andrew Kurka, Stifel U.S. Para Alpine Ski TeamStifel has been huge supporter of the Para alpine team. Helping fund our development, pipeline and giving us the support we need to pursue our careers as athletes. Most Para sports aren't seen as equal opportunity athletic endeavors. But the fact that Stifel stands behind us, helping to fund our team. Shows they see the big picture and treat athletes on the US Ski team as more than just philanthropic endeavors. Tate Frantz, Stifel U.S. Ski Jumping TeamHaving Stifel come on as a title sponsor is a huge boost for our team. Their support means we can keep pushing the limits and representing our country at the highest level. It's exciting to have a partner that believes in our journey and wants to be part of the ride. ABOUT STIFELStifel Financial Corp. (NYSE: SF) is a financial services holding company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, that conducts its banking, securities, and financial services business through several wholly owned subsidiaries. Stifel's broker-dealer clients are served in the United States through Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, including its Eaton Partners business division; Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.; Miller Buckfire & Co., LLC; and Stifel Independent Advisors, LLC; and in the United Kingdom and Europe through Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited. The Company's broker-dealer affiliates provide securities brokerage, investment banking, trading, investment advisory, and related financial services to individual investors, professional money managers, businesses, and municipalities. Stifel Bank and Stifel Bank & Trust offer a full range of consumer and commercial lending solutions. Stifel Trust Company, N.A. and Stifel Trust Company Delaware, N.A. offer trust and related services. To learn more about Stifel, please visit the Company's website at ABOUT U.S. SKI & SNOWBOARDU.S. Ski & Snowboard is the Olympic and Paralympic National Governing Body of ski and snowboard sports in the USA, based in Park City, Utah. Started in 1905, the organization now represents nearly 240 elite skiers and snowboarders competing on 10 teams: alpine, cross country, freestyle moguls, freestyle aerials, snowboard, freeski, nordic combined, ski jumping, Para alpine and Para snowboard. In addition to the elite teams, U.S. Ski & Snowboard also provides leadership and direction for tens of thousands of young skiers and snowboarders across the USA, encouraging and supporting them in achieving excellence. By empowering national teams, clubs, coaches, parents, officials, volunteers and fans, U.S. Ski & Snowboard is committed to the progression of its sports, athlete success and the value of team. For more information, visit FOR MORE INFORMATIONCourtney HarkinsU.S. Ski & Snowboard, Director of Marketing & Rhett GeraghtyStifel, Director, Advisor Recruiting & Brand Marketinggeraghtyr@
The Star
13-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Alpine skiing-U.S. Ski & Snowboard secures sponsor extension, sources say deal near $100M
NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. Ski & Snowboard has extended its sponsorship deal with financial services firm Stifel until 2034 for what sources said was an unprecedented nearly $100 million. U.S. Ski & Snowboard officials declined to comment on the value of the deal but sources told Reuters that it was close to $100 million, making it the richest sponsorship in the organization's history. "In the past, we would have these four-year cycles where, especially off the back of an Olympic year, we would maybe drop off a little bit," U.S. Ski & Snowboard President and CEO Sophie Goldschmidt told Reuters. "We're not having these kinds of highs and lows. And as you look at the long-term development of athletes and how we can support them, to know now that we're going to be able to consistently build kind of year on year in how we support them is huge for us." The deal keeps the title sponsor for the U.S. Ski Team in place through a critical moment for the national governing body, as celebrities like record-breaker Mikaela Shiffrin and comeback story Lindsey Vonn spike interest. The deal offers added visibility for Stifel, a partner since 2022, with the Olympics returning to Salt Lake City in 2034. It will be the first time the United States has hosted the Winter Games in 32 years. "It just gives us the sustainability and consistent financial resources to be able to support our athletes holistically," said Goldschmidt. The deal comes as the U.S. governing body moves to expand its footprint into surfing, throwing its hat into the ring to be the de facto organizer for the U.S. surf team at the LA28 Games at an uncertain time in the sport. USA Surfing accepted decertification after the Tokyo Games that took place in 2021 amid reported concerns from the USOPC over governance and operations. "We wouldn't want to take this on if we didn't strongly believe we could put the surfers in a better place and that it would also be additive to our core sports and organization," said Goldschmidt. USA Surfing, which announced its bid for re-certification in March, has balked at the move, claiming U.S. Ski & Snowboard does not have the proper competition infrastructure in place. Goldschmidt, who said the organization was seeking to manage the elite side of the sport without becoming the national governing body outright, declined to address USA Surfing's criticisms directly: "there are plenty of examples of how different entities have managed multiple sports." "I know firsthand that there's a lot of similarities and synergies that we could optimize and take advantage of to really help surfing grow and get to a place where I think we all feel that it deserves to be," she said. (Reporting by Amy Tennery in New York; Editing by Christian Radnedge)
The Independent
20-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
US Ski & Snowboard agrees to 3-year partnership with retailer J.Crew for a line of lifestyle apparel
On race day, the U.S. ski team needs sleek and streamlined apparel. After the finish line, though, it's time for some cool, comfortable and fashion-forward threads. Soon available: An all-American look, with a vintage, mountain vibe. U.S. Ski & Snowboard is partnering with retailer to create a new line of lifestyle outfits that includes pullovers, loungewear, sweaters and cold-weather accessories. It's a three-year deal leading into the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. will have a presence across a multitude of the organization's top events, including a sneak peak of what's in store Tuesday during the World Cup finals in Sun Valley. 'This aligned really well with our strategic goals of broadening more into the lifestyle, après-ski space,' Sophie Goldschmidt, president and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard, said in an interview. ' Mountain lifestyle is becoming just more and more of a focus for us as the world becomes more about experiences and adventure. Given that is such an iconic brand, and really going into an exciting place, we just felt it was the right opportunity at the right time.' U.S. Ski & Snowboard still has Kappa as its technical gear sponsor for races and training. But when the athletes step off the slopes, has the outfit. 'We really are two iconic American brands, connecting on sports, lifestyle and fashion,' said Libby Wadle, the CEO of Group, whose company launched a collaboration with USA Swimming before last year's Paris Games. 'We're really excited about engaging new fans in this way, celebrating the lifestyle of skiing and snowboarding.' For ideas on its new product line, reached into ski and snowboarding's history. It drew inspiration from old patches, posters and logos. As part of the new collection, will tap into storytelling — to highlight these Olympians, world champions and World Cup standouts across all winter sports and disciplines. 'These athletes are the best of the best and they've been through a lot and everyone has an individual story,' Wadle explained. 'That so resonates with our customers and, honestly, anyone out there. We love celebrating that and really helping bring them to a platform that speaks louder to a broader audience.' Added Goldschmidt: 'It's a three-year partnership because I think it's going to take some time to really optimize the different elements. It's a brand that's willing to innovate.' ___
