Lake Tahoe, CA, October 25, 2025 - The Far West Ski Association (FWSA) continues its proud tradition of supporting the U.S. Ski Team through its Athletic Scholarship Program, now entering its 22nd year. Established in 2004 with just $1,000 in scholarship awards, the program has grown dramatically - providing $12,450 in scholarships to 20 deserving junior racers for the 2025–2026 season. Since its inception, the program has awarded 298 scholarships to 174 athletes, totaling $229,450 in financial support for emerging competitors.
Funding is made possible through the Far West Ski Foundation, the 501(c)(3) fundraising arm of the Association, and is supported by sponsorships, donations, and the generosity of regional councils, clubs, and individual members. Among the many athletes who have benefited is AJ Hurt, a multi-year recipient of the Sierra Council Frank App Memorial Scholarship, who continues to make her mark on the international racing stage.
At its meeting in Lake Tahoe on October 25, the FWSA Board of Directors unanimously passed a resolution recognizing the U.S. Alpine Women’s Ski Team following their historic performance at the 2025–2026 FIS World Cup season opener in Sölden, Austria. The team placed six athletes in the top 20—three of them in the top six—a feat not achieved in over 30 years.
WHEREAS, the 2025 – 2026 FIS World Cup season began with a Women’s GS race in
Solden, Austria on October 25, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the US Alpine Ski Team placed three in the top six and six in the top 20
with Paula Moltzan (2nd), Mikaela Shiffrin (4th), Nina O’Brien (6th), Katie Hensien (12th), AJ Hurt (13th), and Elizabeth Bocock (19th); and
WHEREAS, for the first time in more than 30 years, six U.S. Women qualified for the 2nd run and all six ended up in the top 20;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Far West Ski Association, representing 140
recreational ski clubs in 12 western states with approximately 50,000 ski club members, proudly congratulates the U.S. Alpine Women’s Ski Team.
For additional information about the Athletic Scholarship Program, visit www.fwsa.org.