2015-18 team manual Gus Kenworthy, Joss Christensen, Nick Goepper © Getty Images table of contents 2015-2018 team manual

Chapter 1: Introduction to the Team Manual ...... 4 Welcome from USSA President and CEO Tiger Shaw ...... 5 How to Use The Team Manual ...... 6

Chapter 2: National Team Membership ...... 8 USSA Vision, Mission, Goals, Values, Key Principles and Organizational Messages ...... 9 National Team Selection ...... 11 Code of Conduct ...... 13 USSA Safe Sport Guidelines ...... 15 USSA National Team Policies ...... 19

Chapter 3: Introduction to the USSA ...... 21 Introduction to the USSA ...... 22 Sport Governance ...... 23 USSA Business Model ...... 25 USSA Planning Process ...... 26

Chapter 4: USSA Athletics ...... 27 Welcome from USSA Athletics ...... 28 Four Cornerstones of Athletic Success ...... 29 USSA Sport Science ...... 31 USSA Sports Medicine ...... 32 Athlete Medical Management ...... 36 Concussion Management_ ...... 41 Anti-Doping ...... 44 Retirement ...... 46 Training Center Access ...... 47 USSA Sport Education ...... 51 USSA Competition Services ...... 53

Chapter 5: Athlete Services and Responsibilities ...... 54 Athlete Services and Responsibilities ...... 55 USOC Athlete Support Programs ...... 59 Insurance ...... 62 U.S. Ski Team Official Competition Suppliers ...... 68 Athlete Logo and Photography Usage ...... 72 Athlete Support of USSA Revenue-Producing Programs ...... 74 Media and Public Appearances ...... 76 Athlete Membership Requirements ...... 82 Athlete Contract Administration ...... 83 On the Road ...... 85 Vehicle Procedures ...... 87 Ski and Snowboarding Area Access for Athletes ...... 89 3 chapter 1 introduction to thetable team of contents manual 2015-2018 team manual

Chapter 6: USSA Department Structure ...... 91 USSA Organizational Structure ...... 92 USSA Athletics ...... 93 USSA Finance ...... 94 USSA Human Resources / Insurance ...... 94 USSA Purchasing, Shipping and Receiving ...... 95 USSA Legal Office ...... 95 USSA Business Enterprise ...... 95 Information Technology ...... 96 Sales and Marketing ...... 98 Merchandising ...... 101 USSA Foundation ...... 101 Communications ...... 102 Events ...... 104 USSA Member Services ...... 105 Content and Creative Services ...... 105

APPENDIX ...... 106 U .S . Ski Team Competition Suppliers ...... 107 Exhibit A ...... 108 chapter introduction1 to the team manual Jessie Diggins © Sarah Brunson/U.S. Ski Team chapter 1 introduction to the team manual 5

WELCOME FROM USSA PRESIDENT AND CEO TIGER SHAW

the best ways to take advantage of your achievement as a national team member . It’s also an important source of information for you to understand the benefits of national team membership as well as expectations and responsibilities .

The support of the American public is directly tied to the success that you demonstrate every day of the year . The U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing are brands recognized and respected throughout the world . As a national team member, you are an integral part of these brands . You are an

ambassador and role model for your sport . Your actions both on and off the snow will have a Photo: Sarah Brunson/USSA direct impact on how stakeholders perceive the USSA as an international organization .

You undoubtedly remember the athletes who Congratulations on your nomination to the U .S . motivated you as a child . You are now that role Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding or U .S . Freeskiing . model . You have past coaches, parents and This is a great achievement—one of the highest fellow athletes who helped you reach this point in your sport . The work you’ve put in and the and want to see you succeed . As you travel support of your USSA family has brought you to the world representing the USA, you have an the next stage, giving you the opportunity and amazing opportunity to influence young people challenge to become Best in the World . and fans of our sport and continue our tradition The vision of the USSA is to make the United of being Best in the World . States of America the Best in the World in Welcome to the national team! Olympic skiing and snowboarding . To that end, our goal is to provide you with the highest possible level of year-round athletic service so that you can achieve your athletic goals and Olympic dreams . Tiger Shaw President and CEO The USSA’s Team Manual provides you with U .S . Ski and Snowboard Association a roadmap that will guide you through 6 chapter 1 introduction to the team manual

HOW TO USE THE TEAM MANUAL The Team Manual is a valuable educational resource for national team athletes . It provides an overview of the U .S . Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) as a world-class sports organization, outlines important athletic program information, details benefits for you as a national team athlete and also lists important responsibilities you have as a team member .

The USSA is your organization! The U .S . Ski Team, • Have you wondered if school and education U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing brands can enhance your athletic performance? are highly respected by the American public, Check out the athlete career and education donors and sponsors . These valuable brands are benefits offered to national team athletes. responsible for creating the funding that supports • As a national team athlete, you are the you as a national team athlete . public face of your sport and your team . Here are a few tips to help you get the most out Learn how you can help increase the value of the Team Manual: of your team’s brand by how you position yourself with the media, sponsors and the • Learn about the Vision, Mission, Goals and public . You create the public value that Values of the organization and why they are comes back to help fund you as a national important to you as a national team athlete . team athlete . Your respect for these principles will give you even greater value and lead you to more • Get to know the USSA’s partners . They’re your opportunities . partners, too! Did you know that the USSA has one of the most loyal and longstanding • Learn more about the USSA as a world- sponsor bases of any Olympic sport? class professional sports organization and how it operates to raise money for athletic • Learn more about what the U S. . Ski programs. The USSA is one of the most fiscally and Snowboard Team Foundation has sound Olympic governing bodies in America, accomplished to help fund athletic programs . providing stability and growth in athletic • You’ve earned the privilege of being a funding year-to-year . national team member, but it also comes • The current operational model of the USSA with responsibilities . It’s your responsibility as a has been very successful . Learn about how professional athlete to know and understand the USSA is structured and how it plans the team’s policies and abide by them . Read systematically for the future . Did you know the manual thoroughly so you know your that the USSA provides programming for over responsibilities . a dozen athletic programs? There’s a lot of valuable information in the team • Learn more about the depth of services in Manual . Take the time to read it on the plane to the USSA’s Athletic Department, from team your next camp or event and carry it with you as support to sport science and more . a resource . Use it to learn how you can get the most out of your experience as a team member . • You have many benefits as a national team athlete . Do you know all the details of your insurance coverage, including your responsibilities? chapter 1 introduction to the team manual 7

Alex Diebold © Sarah Brunson/U.S. Snowboardingphoto credit chapter national2 team membership David Wise © Getty Images chapterchapter 1 introduction 2 national to team the team membership manual 9

USSA VISION, MISSION, GOALS, VALUES, KEY PRINCIPLES AND ORGANIZATIONAL MESSAGES The USSA is a world-class, professional sports organization with a well-defined Vision, Mission, Goals and Values. These elements are critically important to the sponsors and donors who financially support USSA athletic programs .

USSA VISION USSA GOALS The Vision of the USSA is to make the United The USSA’s Goals are the targets by which States of America the best in the world in the USSA manages its organizational business . Olympic skiing and snowboarding . They are an aid in planning and day-to-day execution of the USSA’s business plan . USSA MISSION The Mission of the USSA is to provide strong • Athletic excellence leadership that establishes and supports • Financial strength athletic excellence, in accordance with USSA Core Values . • Organizational growth • Positive organizational image

• Strong partnerships

Kikkan Randall © Getty Images 10 chapter 2 national team membership

USSA CORE VALUES USSA ORGANIZATIONAL MESSAGES The USSA Core Values represent the way the The USSA is an Olympic sports organization organization conducts its business and the way dedicated to fielding and developing the best its staff and athletes conduct themselves at all skiing and snowboarding teams in the world . times . The organizational strength of the USSA and The USSA represents a wide range of sports and the support it provides to elite athletes is directly disciplines, as well as ages and lifestyles . There related to how those elite athletes conduct is a common athletic vision of being best in the their professional careers and personal lives in world by winning more Olympic medals in skiing accordance to these organizational principles . and snowboarding than any other nation .

Team – Constituent groups within the USSA Best in the World Goal working in partnership to be the best in the world The USSA is dedicated to the ideal of helping Loyalty – Steadfast allegiance to the USSA’s American athletes win more Olympic medals Vision, Mission, Goals and Values than any other nation . The goal is about athletic excellence and winning performance . In that Integrity – Steadfast, incorruptible adherence to quest, the USSA raises funds, provides high-level truth and USSA Core Values training, makes available educational resources Respect – Willing demonstration of care and unites fans, families, coaches, clubs, donors and concern toward others and an open- and partners to achieve the vision of the USSA . mindedness toward others’ ideas Core Values Accountability – Responsibility of every individual The USSA is a world class organization based on to conduct themselves in accordance with USSA standards of conduct which define excellence values and expectations in both the staff and the athletes . The USSA is Perseverance – Unwavering commitment committed to the core values of team, loyalty, to the core values in pursuit of the USSA’s Vision integrity, respect, accountability, perseverance and Mission and courage each day .

Courage - The quality of mind or spirit that Action Sports enables a person to face difficulty, danger or The USSA’s athletic programs and events are pain without fear to achieve a goal action sports, representing exciting elements including speed, danger, acrobatics, head-to- USSA KEY PRINCIPLES head competition, endurance and more .

• Physical conditioning is the cornerstone of a Development for Future

successful athletic program The USSA is always looking to the future, • The USSA is educationally based and providing support and direction to young athletically focused athletes through its development programs .

• Continuity and consistency of leadership and programs chapter 2 national team membership 11

NATIONAL TEAM Congratulations on your nomination to the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding or U .S . Freeskiing, the highest level of skiing and snowboarding in the country . Nomination to the USSA’s national teams is a great honor . The USSA has a deliberate process for team selection, nomination and formal naming of teams designed to select athletes with a high potential for Olympic success and to name those athletes who accept the responsibilities of team membership .

TEAM SELECTION PROCESS the benefits afforded by team membership. The USSA follows International Olympic Committee Team Selection Criteria (IOC), United States Olympic Committee (USOC) Each fall, the USSA generates the criteria utilized and International Ski Federation (FIS) rules and to determine which athletes will be nominated procedures regarding an athlete’s right to to the elite teams for the following year’s compete in protected competitions for which competition season . Once approved, these they have qualified. criteria are available for each elite team at Team Announcement www .ussa .org . The USSA will make a formal team Nomination announcement for each national team, At the USSA Athletic Summit in April, sport strategically timed to gain the most exposure for directors and coaching staff assess each each respective team . athlete’s past performance relative to the ATHLETE BENEFITS AND RESPONSIBILITIES selection criteria to determine nominations . With team membership comes the support of a Each sport’s nomination list is reviewed and professional sports organization whose ultimate approved by the USSA’s Chief Executive Officer goal is to provide you the leadership and (CEO) and Executive Vice President (EVP), resources needed to succeed . Team members Athletics, after which athletes are notified. receive benefits to varying degrees depending Naming to the Team upon their status and sport. These benefits may The USSA names an athlete to the national team differ from year to year . after he or she agrees to accept the benefits Contact your sport director or Team Manager and responsibilities of team membership by with questions or concerns . signing the Team Membership Agreement .

Athletes are not required to accept national team nominations . If an athlete declines to accept the responsibilities that come with team membership, that athlete is free to train and compete as an individual but not entitled to 12 chapter 2 national team membership

Kelly Clark © Sarah Brunson/U.S. Snowboarding chapter 2 national team membership 13

CODE OF CONDUCT Every USSA athlete and staff member should become familiar with the USSA Code of Conduct . It is a document that covers a broad scope of responsibilities shared by each and every athlete and staff member . In addition to the USSA Code of Conduct, there may be additional policies implemented by the USSA . Those policies will be communicated to national team athletes through the Team Manual, Athlete Agreement or by other means .

USSA CODE OF CONDUCT While participating in any USSA activity:

Membership in the USSA is a privilege, not a 1 . USSA members shall be subject to the right . When participating in any USSA activity, jurisdiction of the FIS statutes, the USOC all USSA members (athletes, coaches, officials) bylaws, the USSA bylaws and the USSA must agree to conduct themselves according Code of Conduct . to USSA’s Core Values of team, loyalty, integrity, 2 . USSA members shall conduct themselves at respect, perseverance, accountability and all times and in all places as befits worthy courage, and abide by the spirit and dictates representatives of the United States of of this Code of Conduct . All members must America, the USOC, USSA, their region, agree to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike division, state or club and in accordance manner and are responsible for their actions with the best traditions of national and while attending or participating in all USSA international competition . activities (including but not limited to camps, competitions and projects) . 3 . USSA members are responsible for knowledge of and adherence to Sportsmanlike conduct is defined as but not competition rules and procedures . Members limited to: respect for competition officials, resort are also responsible for knowledge of and employees and the skiing and snowboarding adherence to the rules and procedures public; respect for facilities, privileges and of USSA national teams, camps or other operating procedures; the use of courtesy projects when participating in such . and good manners; acting responsibly and maturely, refraining from the use of profane or 4 . USSA members shall maintain high abusive language and abstinence from illegal standards of moral and ethical conduct, or immoderate use of alcohol and use of illegal which includes self-control and responsible or banned substances . behavior, consideration for the physical and emotional well-being of others, courtesy and good manners .

5 . USSA members shall abide by USSA rules and procedures while traveling to and from and participating in official USSA activities.

6 . USSA members shall abstain from illegal and/ or immoderate consumption of alcohol . 14 chapter 12 introductionnational team to membershipthe team manual

Absolutely no consumption of alcohol is Failure to comply with any of the above permitted for those individuals under the provisions may lead to disciplinary action by age of 21 . Members under 21 years of age the appropriate team or competition leader . shall not participate in gatherings involving Disciplinary action may include: consumption of alcohol unless it is an official • Removal from the team trip or training camp USSA or event organizer function . • Suspension from training and/or competition 7 . No USSA member shall violate the customs, travel or currency regulations of a country • Elimination of coaching, travel and while traveling with a USSA group or on a other benefits USSA ticket . • Forfeiture of USSA membership

8 . No USSA member shall commit a criminal act . The USSA is committed to principles of fairness, 9 . No USSA member shall engage in any due process and equal opportunity . Members conduct that could be perceived as are entitled to be treated fairly and in harassment based upon gender, age, race, compliance with USSA’s bylaws, policies and religion or disability . procedures . Members are entitled to notice and an opportunity for a hearing before being 10 . USSA members will avoid profane or prevented from participating in protected abusive language and disruptive behavior . competition as that term is defined by the 11 . Any USSA member who uses any substance USOC bylaws . Information on the processes or material, by whatsoever route introduced for grievances, suspensions and appeals is into the body, which has been determined available at www .ussa org. . by the FIS to be banned or prohibited is, Nothing in this code shall be deemed to restrict by definition, engaging in doping and the individual freedom of a USSA member in shall be subject to immediate suspension matters not involving activities in which one procedures . Action with intent to violate this could not be perceived as representing the section of the Code of Conduct, whether USSA . In choices of appearance, lifestyle, successful or not, shall be sufficient to behavior and speech while not representing warrant suspension . the USSA, competitors shall have complete 12 . Any USSA member who participates in freedom, provided their statements and the violation of the rule in the preceding actions do not adversely affect the name section 11, by encouragement or consent, and reputation of the USSA . However, in those or by furnishing prohibited materials or events where one is representing or could be substances, is, by definition, engaging in perceived as representing the USSA, the USSA doping and shall be subject to suspension . demands that its members understand and agree to behave in a manner consistent with the best traditions of sportsmanship and USSA’s Core Values .

photo credit chapter 1 introduction to the team manual 15

USSA SAFE SPORT GUIDELINES

PURPOSE OF THE GUIDELINES POSITIONS OF TRUST

As National Governing Body (NGB) and Good Practice steward of our sport, USSA has published this • The welfare of the child is the primary concern . document to assist its members in recognizing unacceptable behavior and acting to prevent • Be aware that the closeness of the coach/ or correct it . These guidelines are not intended athlete relationship may encourage feelings to serve as legal advice or to supplant legal that are not directly related to the sport . definitions of abuse and harassment that • Set out and maintain appropriate boundaries . may depending on jurisdiction . Instead these • Promote fairness . guidelines are designed to raise awareness of areas of concern . If these guidelines raise • Prevent and correct bullying . concerns about behavior you have witnessed, • Treat all children equally, with dignity you are advised to notify the child’s parents and and respect . seek appropriate counsel . • Give enthusiastic and constructive advice Definition of a Child rather than criticism . These guidelines are drafted first and foremost Unacceptable Behavior for the protection of children. A child is defined as anyone under the age of 18 years but many • NEVER enter into a sexual relationship with a of the behaviors described herein are also child under your care/supervision . detrimental to athletes over the age of majority . • NEVER use your influence over a child for While protection of children is of paramount your own interests . importance, it may also be advisable to ensure PHYSICAL CONTACT similar conduct is not being perpetrated on those whose ages exceed 18 years . Good Practice

Statement • Physical contact is recommended only in support of the following purposes: • The welfare of the minor child is paramount • To develop or demonstrate sports skills . • Children must be protected from harm, abuse, and degrading treatments • To diagnose or treat an injury .

• Parents must be involved in any action taken • To give appropriate sport massage . to intervene in behalf of their child • These actions should only be carried out by appropriately qualified staff.

• Physical contact may be appropriate in other circumstances, as in congratulating a child or consoling a child who is upset . However, always ensure that physical contact is carried out in the open, or in the 16 chapter 1 introduction to the team manual

presence of another supervising adult . importance and implications of the information he is sharing . • Remember that interpretations of touching will be affected by factors such as cultural Unacceptable Behavior differences, religious implications, relative • You should never encourage confidences, or age, sexual orientation . intrude into the private life of the child . • If a child is uncomfortable with physical • Maintain appropriate boundaries . contact, stop . INTEGRITY GENERAL SUPERVISION Good Practice Good Practice • Discourage children from talking offensively • A supervising adult should never be alone about others, but be aware that the child with a child in potentially compromising may be trying to describe an instance of situations, i .e . in a hotel room, bathroom, abuse . changing room, locker rooms, etc . • Never talk offensively about others yourself . • Mixed gender teams must always be accompanied by male and female • Encourage children to obey the rules of the responsible adults . sport, and compete in good faith, and treat officials and other competitors with respect. Unacceptable Behavior • Emphasize fair play! • Do not spend time alone with a child behind closed doors . Unacceptable Behavior

• Do not take a child alone on a trip unless • Never advocate measures to gain an unfair in an emergency and with written advantage or cheat in any way . parental permission . • Never allow children in your care to do this .

• Do not enter the room of a child without PERSONAL STANDARDS another responsible adult present . Good Practice • Never share a room with a child . • Always display high personal standards . • Discourage sexually provocative jokes or • Respect USSA’s Core Values and live them . inappropriate touching or conversation . • Respect USSA’s Code of Conduct . CONFIDENTIALITY • Always project a favorable image of the Good Practice sport, the Olympic movement, USSA, and FIS . • Where you are close to a child, you may • Always project an image of health, gather very personal information about cleanliness and efficiency. a child . Unacceptable Behavior • Try to make the child aware of the chapter 1 introduction to the team manual 17

• Do not smoke, or drink alcohol to excess, Emotional Abuse when in the company of children . • May involve telling a child that he/she is • Never use profane, insulting or otherwise useless, devaluing them . offensive language . • Constant criticism and negative feedback . • Never use any form of sexually charged • Shouting threats or taunts . verbal intimacy or innuendoes . • Unrealistic expectation of performance at If You Are Unsure levels above a child’s capability . • Always err on the side of protecting the Neglect child . Take action . • Failure to provide adequate food or shelter . • If you are unsure of what is appropriate or necessary in the particular circumstance, • Prolonged unnecessary exposure to cold or you should consult local counsel, medical heat . professionals, or contact USSA’s EVP and • Unnecessary risk of injury General Counsel for guidance by emailing Sexual Abuse anatt@ussa .org . • In sport, activities which might involve • Always involve the child’s parents in any physical contact with children may create action involving their child . situations where sexual abuse may go DEFINING ABUSE unnoticed .

• Physical • The power of the coach over the athlete • Emotional could, if misused, lead to abusive situations developing . • Neglect Bullying • Sexual • May be physical, verbal or emotional . • Bullying • Is usually repeated over a period of time . Physical Abuse • May involve staff, other athletes, or parents . • Physical injury of all types when such injury is intentional or results from neglect . • Signs may include a drop in performance, behavioral changes, mood swings, • Giving a child alcohol or inappropriate reluctance to train/compete, frequent loss medications or drugs . of possessions, physical injuries (bruising, • In a sports situation, this may also occur scratches, etc ),. poor sleep, loss of appetite/ when the nature and intensity of training weight . disregard the capacity of the child’s immature and growing body . 18 chapter 1 introduction to the team manual

Be Vigilant In the event you have any questions about these guidelines or with to discuss or report any • Ensure coaches and those in positions of trust suspected violation of these guidelines, please are screened pursuant to USSA’s criminal contact USSA’s EVP and General Counsel, Alex background screening policy . Natt at anatt@ussa .org . • Watch for signs of abuse and bullying . Hotline • Note changes in behavior . This no-cost, confidential service helps athletes • Drop in performance . manage crisis situations and other misconduct- • Physical symptoms and signs . related issues that they may face . The hotline is staffed by professionals who will listen to Action concerns and quickly connect callers with • It is NOT your responsibility to decide if abuse resources in the community . Any USSA athlete is taking place . may call the hotline at any time, which is staffed 24/7 . • However, if you suspect abuse, you should take action . Report your concerns The hotline services are currently available: to parents, or if necessary, local child Call: 855 .665 .5473 protection or law enforcement authorities . TDD: 800 .697 .0353

• Seek counsel from qualified individuals Safe Sport Training to assist your club in addressing Additional training is available at training . objectionable behaviors . safesport .org and USSA members can access Remember at no cost using the code SAFESPORTUSA . All Coaches, Officials, and the parents of minor • The effects of abuse may have very long- competitors and youth members are strongly lasting consequences for the child . encouraged to take this course . Please take • The welfare of the child is paramount . note of this website and code so you can • Children must be protected from harm, complete the training after finalizing your discrimination and degrading treatments . membership . The code is intended for use by USSA members and their parents only, and is not DOCUMENTS intended for re-distribution . These guidelines are intended to complement:

• The USSA Code of Conduct

• The USSA Policy on Sexual Abuse and Harassment

• The USSA Criminal Background Screening Policy FIS and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Anti-Doping Policies

• FIS and WADA Anti-Doping Policies chapter 2 national team membership 19

USSA NATIONAL TEAM POLICIES

The USSA takes a disciplined approach to how Uniform and Equipment Policy its staff and athletes operate using its Core Athletes, staff and others providing services under Values acting as the guiding principles . This USSA management and control shall abide by Team Manual outlines many of the procedures uniform and equipment policies and procedures and policies the USSA has implemented to for all USSA Foundation, Team, Marketing, media, ensure successful management of its competition and training activities . athletic programs . Team Housing Policy National Team POLICIES Athletes, staff and others providing services Athlete Fundraising under USSA management and control will stay in In order to provide performance services to USSA-authorized housing during official training elite athletes, the USSA engages in fundraising and competition, unless specifically authorized activities based around its trademarked by the Head Coach . brands, including the USSA, U .S . Ski Team, Event Participation Policy U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing . While Athletes will participate in elite-level USSA events national team athletes are free to raise hosted in the United States for which they additional funds for their own individual support, qualify, provided that exceptions for medical the USSA reserves the exclusive right to use of restrictions or other unique circumstances can the name, marks and images of its brand, as be made with prior approval by the respective well as contact lists . sport director and EVP, Athletics . Alcohol Policy Unfunded Athlete Participation The use of alcohol on the USSA premises and In the event an athlete is not fully funded during USSA team activities is prohibited, except for USSA activities (usually based on team when the CEO authorizes such use for certain classification, i.e., A, B, C, and D team), such social activities or social events . Team activities athlete will be responsible for and must pay the include, but are not limited to, USSA Foundation, appropriate amount for the applicable activity sponsor and media events and functions prior to commencing that activity . If the exact (e g. ., Ski and Snowboard Balls, sponsor/donor amount of the activity cannot be determined in dinners, VIP tents, event-related activities, etc .), advance, the USSA will determine a reasonable team meetings, team meals/dinners, video estimate that the athlete will pay in advance . review, ski/wax rooms and work- or athletic- Any difference between the estimate and the related activities . The consumption of alcohol actual cost of the activity must promptly be by staff and others providing services under paid by the athlete or reimbursed to the athlete USSA management and control with or in the as the case may be . presence of athletes and vice versa is prohibited during USSA projects or activities .

When alcohol consumption has been deemed appropriate, it shall be in strict moderation . 20 chapter 2 national team membership

POLICY ACCOUNTABILITY In order to achieve organizational excellence and individual athletic success, the USSA has established policies and procedures that will help ensure a consistent, professional environment that optimizes opportunities for all partners (athletes, parents, staff, donors, clubs, etc .) . The USSA expects all of its partners to abide by these policies and procedures .

The purpose of enforcement procedures is to work in partnership with those involved in educating to the values and policies of the organization and to change behavior where deemed appropriate .

Failure to abide by policies and procedures may lead to disciplinary action, including but not limited to education, fines, suspension and termination of rights.

Patrick Deneen © Getty Images chapter nationalintroduction23 team to membershipthe ussa Mikaela Schiffrin © Getty Images chapter 3 introduction to the ussa 22

INTRODUCTION TO THE USSA The USSA is the NGB of Olympic skiing and snowboarding . Developed to facilitate participation in national and international competition, the Olympic sports organization provides structure for competitive skiing and snowboarding . From grassroots programs to governance of sport, management of rules, competitions and athletic rankings, the USSA oversees athletic pipelines for development in the sports . With a vision to make the USA the best in the world in Olympic skiing and snowboarding, the USSA provides leadership and direction for tens of thousands of young skiers and snowboarders who share an Olympic dream while maintaining a strong adherence to core values . The USSA, established in 1905, operates out of the national training and education facility, the Center of Excellence, in Park City, Utah .

The USSA’s national team programs showcase best in the world athletes to the public . The USSA manages three distinctly different brands including the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing .

USSA QUICK FACTS • Unlike its competitor nations worldwide, the USSA does not receive any federal funding . USSA • The USSA is comprised of over 30,000 athletes, athletes and programs are funded solely through coaches, officials and volunteers. More than 100,000 the generosity of the public with a mix of private parents, supporters and devotees to the sport contributions (34%), corporate sponsorship (35%), provide a backbone of athlete support . membership fees (11%), Olympic Committee grants • The USSA is the most diverse of any Olympic (9%) and endowment grants (11%) . sports organization with numerous different athletic • The USSA represents more sports than any other sport programs . Olympic sports organization, accounting for nearly • The USSA manages more than 15 different men’s 50% of the events in the Olympic Winter Games . and women’s national programs . • The USSA supports more than 30,000 members • The USSA’s sports account for nearly 50 percent of including 22,000 athletes (more than 50% are the Olympic Winter Games events . under 13) in more than 425 local USSA clubs, • The USSA is managed through a staff of more than with athletes taking part in more than 5,000 U .S . 150 coaches, managers, field staff and other athletic competitions annually .

personnel . • The USSA provides nationwide education for clubs, • Nearly 425 USSA member clubs nationwide coaches, parents and officials as well as structure provide entry-level programs for athletes and and management rules, races and rankings .

implementation of competition programs . • The USSA invests annually in development • Around 4,000 registered USSA coaches provide programming for thousands of athletes . Coaches, nationwide athlete training and program support trainers and staff are also supported at the national through USSA clubs . team level every year (not just in Olympic years) .

• More than 6,000 volunteer officials and judges • The USSA invests between $50,000 to $150,000 provide support for USSA competition programs . annually to support each athlete in his/her • USSA athletes broke records in 2014 when they journey to become Best in the World . This is done won eight gold medals at the Olympic Winter through years of training and coaching as well as Games in Sochi . covering costs . 23 chapter 3 introduction to the ussa

SPORT GOVERNANCE

In many ways sport governance is a herd of is very active in the global management of acronyms that may or may not mean much competitive skiing and snowboarding . As the to you – e .g . FIS, IOC, USOC, etc . But sport national governing body for the United States, governance is very important as it defines both the USSA is responsible for development of the competition rules in your sport and the Olympic selection criteria for approval by the eligibility rules that allow you to take part . USOC . The USSA and the USOC are subject to the dictates of the Ted Stevens Olympic and U S. . SKI AND SNOWBOARD ASSOCIATION Amateur Sports Act of 1998 . The USSA manages a wide range of unique sport programs in skiing and snowboarding . The USSA INTERNATIONAL SKI FEDERATION is governed by an elected board of directors The FIS is the recognized international federation including an athlete and sport leader from each (IF) for competitive skiing and snowboarding . of the USSA’s sports, Foundation representatives, More than 100 national associations, including the USSA CEO, one at-large member and the the USSA, are members of the FIS . The FIS USSA Board of Directors chairman . headquarters is located in Oberhofen, Switzerland . The FIS is responsible for several As a function of its long term strategic plan, the extremely important areas: USSA manages development and elite athletic programs under a variable sport management • Development and enforcement of all program adapted to the strategic direction competition rules in competitive skiing of each respective sport . The USSA also and snowboarding, including all FIS and manages elite team programs under three Olympic events separate athletic brands: the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . • Development and enforcement of all Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing . eligibility rules for participation in FIS and The USSA Board of Directors is chaired by Dexter Olympic events Paine, a longtime trustee and avid skier . The • Scheduling of all FIS skiing and snowboarding staff and management of the USSA are led by events, including FIS and Olympic events President and CEO Tiger Shaw, who also sits on the USSA Board . The Board is responsible for • Producing FIS World Championships in skiing providing direction for the organization, with the and snowboarding staff and management team responsible for It is extremely important as an athlete that you day-to-day operations and leadership . are familiar with FIS rules, including both the The U .S . Ski and Snowboard Team Foundation competition rules for your specific sport and the has a separate board of trustees who provide general eligibility rules . It is your responsibility to expertise, financial support, fundraising be aware of these rules. You risk disqualification assistance and leadership . or sanctions for violation of rules . You also risk eligibility to participate in Olympic events if you The USSA is a national association of the FIS and violate rules . chapter 3 introduction to the ussa 24

You can find copies of FIS rules at www.fis-ski.com years, and executive board members for terms or in the various sport sections of www .ussa .org . of four years .

The FIS is led by President Gian-Franco Kasper The Olympic movement receives most of its and is managed on a day-to-day basis funding from the broadcast rights bought by by Secretary General Sarah Lewis . Primary networks around the world . However, it also rulemaking is the responsibility of the FIS benefits from The Olympic Partners’ (TOP) Congress, a meeting held every even-numbered worldwide sponsorship program comprising year and attended by representatives from multinational companies . By retaining all all FIS national associations . In the interim, rights relating to the organization, marketing, regular governance is provided by the elected broadcasting and reproduction of the Olympics, 17-member FIS Council . Dexter Paine is a vice the IOC ensures the continuity of a unique and president of the FIS Council . In addition, more universal event . than 30 U .S . sport leaders sit in positions on U .S . OLYMPIC COMMITTEE various FIS committees . The USOC is a non-profit organization that serves INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEE as the national Olympic committee (NOC) for The IOC is an international non-governmental, the United States as recognized by the IOC . As non-profit organization and the creator of the a NOC, the USOC supports American athletes Olympic movement . It was founded in 1894 by in general and Olympic athletes in particular . the French educator Baron Pierre de Coubertin Athletes who participate in the Olympics are who was inspired to revive the Olympic Games approved and entered by the USOC . of Greek antiquity . The USSA, as the recognized NGB for Olympic The IOC serves as the umbrella organization skiing and snowboarding, works closely with the of the Olympic movement . It owns all rights to USOC on many fronts including athlete services, the Olympic symbols, flag, motto, anthem and Olympic selection, team support and other Olympic Games . Its primary responsibility is to business areas . supervise the organization of the summer and The USOC has established a number of training winter Olympics . centers throughout the USA . The USSA interfaces Its role is to promote top-level sport as well as with the USOC to manage access to those sport for all in accordance with the Olympic centers for its athletes and programs . charter . It ensures the regular celebration of The USOC also manages selection among the Olympics and strongly encourages, by American cities wishing to host future Olympics . appropriate means, the promotion of women in The winner selected by the USOC will be sport, sport ethics and the protection of athletes . allowed to submit a bid to the IOC, which is in The IOC is composed of a maximum of 115 charge of selecting the eventual host city . elected members who meet at least once a year . The IOC session elects a president for a term of eight years, renewable once for four 25 chapter 3 introduction to the ussa

Todd Lodwick © Getty Images

USSA BUSINESS MODEL

The USSA business model has one preeminent • Rules, competitions and rankings purpose: to maximize the available funding for • Education and pipeline programming athletic programs . All activities conducted (or being considered) by the USSA are evaluated • Sport administration under two basic premises: The USSA is continually looking to maximize and 1 . Does it have a direct athletic program grow net revenue from all possible revenue benefit that would assist in improving sources to fund athletics . Primary revenue athletic performance? sources include corporate partnerships including event and team sponsorships, licensing, 2 . Can it deliver additional net revenue that television rights and commercial unit sales, could then be used to support additional public donation programs through the U .S . Ski athletic programs? and Snowboard Team Foundation, membership The USSA’s athletic responsibilities are far- dues and fees, an annual grant from the USSA’s reaching across each of our different sports and endowment and annual performance grants include the following activities: from the USOC .

• Elite team management (training, coaching, competition, sport science and medical programs) chapter 3 introduction to the ussa 26

USSA PLANNING PROCESS

The USSA has a planning cycle that produces World Cup goals and down the competition a comprehensive, rolling five-year strategic ladder . Once all departments have submitted plan annually . It serves as a road map to their plans, including the priority listing of achieve organizational goals . Its primary focus unfunded initiatives, the chief financial officer is the realization of skiing and snowboarding (CFO) in consultation with the CEO and the EVP, athletic excellence . It also is a business plan that Athletics, arranges the department initiatives acknowledges the need for fiscal prudence in a company priority listing . Upon completion and responsibility . The plan represents the of the review, the CEO releases any additional culmination of detailed examination of all areas funds to cover the top company initiatives . of responsibility by each department head . This detailed plan will be compiled, refined, In order to achieve the five mutually- approved and published as the USSA Five-Year reinforcing goals, the plan begins with a brief Strategic Plan with Addendum A in mid-May but sharply-focused vision, mission and core and distributed to the USOC, the USSA Board values statement . Using these statements of Directors and the U S. . Ski and Snowboard and the current fiscal year as the baseline Team Foundation Board of Trustees . The detailed departure point, goals are established within athletic department sport plans for the next five each functional area. These goals are specific years of the five-year plan are developed and in nature, achievable and, most importantly, presented to the USSA CEO, EVP, Athletics and measurable . CFO in July and published in August of each year as Addendum B to the USSA Five-Year In athletics, all goals begin with Olympic Winter Strategic Plan . Games followed by World Championship goals,

Stacey Cook © Getty Images chapter ussa athletics4 Greg Bretz © Sarah Brunson/U.S. Snowboarding chapter 4 ussa athletics 28

WELCOME FROM USSA ATHLETICS

our success and have helped lift us as a team . Your successes have been historic and this team will have a lasting and positive impact on the sport .

Preparation, the strength of your plan and athletic vision and your accountability to the process of performance determines who you are as an athlete . Your integrity, your ability to respect those around you and your willingness to accept your position as a teammate and role model for youth defines who we are as a team.

As a member of this team, you can expect that everyone involved will be totally invested in your success and in the success of our team . With that come expectations of you as an individual . As an athlete, you have certain responsibilities to Photo: Sarah Brunson/USSA the team to help us function and perform at the highest possible levels over the long term . These responsibilities are purposely designed to allow Together as members of the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . us to effectively execute our plan for success Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing, you have and to maximize your abilities as a champion created one of the greatest teams in our 105- athlete . This manual is intended to help you year history . With its record-setting performance understand and adhere to those responsibilities, at the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games, this team and to help you identify and realize maximum has demonstrated the ability to produce benefit from the resources we have developed extraordinary, inspiring athletic performances . for you, to help us succeed . These performances are a product of your commitment to excellence every day, strong Athletes are the USSA’s most important core values and your ability to create a team stakeholders, and I am proud of your culture that has reached throughout our entire performances both on the snow and off . organization . That team culture has enabled us Sincerely, to marshal all of our resources around you and plan for success .

That team spirit, your personalities, your performances and your ability to invest others in Luke Bodensteiner our success has inspired an army of volunteers Executive Vice President, Athletics and donors, supporters and sponsors, fans and U .S . Ski and Snowboard Association advocates . They have committed themselves to 29 chapter 4 ussa athletics

FOUR CORNERSTONES OF ATHLETIC SUCCESS

USSA Athletics is focused on providing strong National Development Systems (NDS) leadership that establishes and supports athletic Development recognizes the importance of excellence at every level of competition with collaboration and cooperation between USSA the ultimate goal of becoming best in the coaches, clubs, divisions, regions, parents, world in Olympic skiing and snowboarding and judges, officials and other partners throughout sustaining this excellence into the future . the pipeline of each sport . The USSA’s Competition Services Department is responsible In order to achieve this focus, it is clear that all for rules, rankings and competition calendars levels of each sport pipeline must be properly in all sports . A NDS philosophy is established organized and coordinated to best assist in each sport based on analysis to determine athletes and their coaches in reaching their the resources needed to support you while full potential . USSA Athletics has established competing in clubs and local programs . The NDS four areas that form the foundation for USSA’s also helps bridge the transition between your strategy to be the best in the world . These are home program and the national team . often referred to as USSA’s Four Cornerstones . Sport Education FOUR CORNERSTONES OF ATHLETIC SUCCESS Through the USSA Sport Education Department, • Elite athlete programs the USSA educates and certifies member • Sport science and medicine coaches, judges, officials and general • National development systems membership . The Sport Education Department • Coaches education encompasses a wide variety of coaching Elite Athlete Programs competencies serviced by a number of The elite athlete program philosophy is to educational mediums . The goal of coaches’ provide resources and programming that are education is to ensure that all coaches have as good as or better than the competition an opportunity to improve their coaching skills internationally and are intended to provide across a broad educational curriculum . you with the tools you need to be successful Each USSA sport has developed a national internationally . Winning inspires and encourages training system for their sport, supported by a athletes at all levels to achieve their highest comprehensive curriculum for coaches . To date, personal potential . Sport Education has developed a number of Sport Science and Medicine joint courses and educational resources that The USSA’s High Performance Department are applicable for all USSA sports . For example, provides education and services to USSA elite nutrition, strength and conditioning, sport athletes and coaches outside of their technical psychology and successful sports parenting are sport knowledge . In addition, sport science has common topics that all coaches must master been used to establish a methodical approach to be successful . Education for our members to improve sport performance through is critical to the continuity and consistency of systematic evaluation and measurement of programming up and down the developmental sport performance components . USSA pipeline . chapter 4 ussa athletics 30

USSA ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT STRUCTURE USSA Athletics is organized to provide leadership over each sport pipeline from entry-level club programs to elite teams by employing a sport director and the appropriate administrative staff to support management and coordination of each sport’s activities . In addition, each sport director is responsible for assembling the appropriate coaching and support staff to run the elite team program . Directors and staff also are assigned to lead and manage Sport Science, Sports Medicine, Professional Athlete Development, Sport Education and Competition Services – service departments that support the efforts of each sport . Finally, the EVP, Athletics leads and manages across all sports and athletic department activities .

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USSA SPORT SCIENCE DISCIPLINE COORDINATORS

USSA Sport Science Department provides Sports Technology and Biomechanics current, applied and comprehensive sport Dr . Troy Flanagan, High Performance Director science support to USSA athletes and coaches . 435 .602 .9506 A major goal of the department is to provide to [email protected] every athlete the information, skills and support Physiology necessary to fully prepare for the demands of Dr . Jim Stray-Gundersen, Sport Science elite competition . Consultant Sport Science manages the USSA’s training 435 .714 .2938 and testing facility and is structured into the jstraygundersen@ussa .org following disciplines: physiology, strength Strength and Conditioning and conditioning, sports dietetics, video and Mike Bahn, Strength and Conditioning technology and sports psychology . In all of Coordinator these specialized areas, testing, program 435 .714 .8311 design, program support and education are mbahn@ussa .org available . In addition to these fundamental services, specialized competition-based analysis Sports Dietetics and support also are available to certain team Allen Tran, Dietitian athletes . These competition services include: 435 .714 .8466 physiological analysis and tracking, food service, atran@ussa .org nutritional support, fatigue analysis, video Performance Psychology analysis, biomechanical analysis, mental skills Dr . Lester Keller, Sport Psychology Coordinator training and technological support . 435 .640 .8503 The Center of Excellence in Park City serves as lkeller@ussa .org the principal training site and testing facility for USSA elite and development teams . The training center staff provides state-of-the-art training, medical and testing services to all USSA athletic programs . The center itself serves as the main satellite site from which many educational endeavors are performed, developed and distributed to coaches and athletes around the country . The training center is open Monday to Friday from 8 a .m .-5 p .m . A coach must be present to use this facility outside of these hours . chapter 4 ussa athletics 32

USSA SPORTS MEDICINE USSA MEDICAL

Injury prevention and management is one of the most important focuses of the USSA with its national teams . The USSA’s medical program is a division within the High Performance Department with its main focus to provide effective athlete medical management including health, injury prevention, acute injury management/treatment and return from injury . The division also works towards improving safety in event organization and equipment recommendations and maintains a level field of play through anti-doping policy – critical components to achieving the goal of best in the world .

The division is managed by USSA Medical to ensure the best possible medical care . Director, Kyle Wilkens MSPAS, PA-C, L-ATC with Volunteers are integrated within the medical support and direction from USSA Chief Physician program through the USSA Medical Committee, Dr . Richard Steadman and the USSA Medical physician pool, regional medical sponsors and Committee . The division directs overall policy the PT/ATC pool . Members of the physician and and procedures governing the medical care PT/ATC pools also provide medical coverage to and management of USSA athletes, including teams on the road . management of all support systems . Contact Medical services are provided to athletes in all Kyle Wilkens MSPAS, PA-C, L-ATC national team programs . Each sport is allocated Director of Medical Services a team physical therapist (PT) and/or athletic 435 .714 .2058 trainer (ATC) to medically manage athletes kwilkens@ussa org. under the guidance of the team physician and Medical Director . They also utilize additional USSA MEDICAL COMMITTEE therapists and/or trainers, medical regional The USSA Medical Committee’s primary sponsors and volunteer physicians from the USSA function is to provide resources, direction and Medical Pool . The head Team PT and/or ATC guidance through recommendations regarding travels on a consistent basis, primarily with A and overall policy and procedure governing B teams, in addition to coordinating coverage medical care of team athletes . Committee for various squads of the teams as they separate members also provide networking resources for in camps or competition . Although additional expertise in medical care sought for athletes PTs and/or ATCs provide daily medical care and based on specific situations. The committee is treatment for the squad they are covering, it is comprised of team physicians closely involved still the responsibility of the head Team PT and/ in medical management of athletes in addition or ATC to be aware of all athletes’ participation to specialists who provide guidance and status at all times . recommendations .

This program is dependent on the commitment Medical Committee of dedicated volunteers and sponsors who Chairman provide the additional resources necessary Dr . Richard Steadman, Steadman Clinic, Vail, CO 33 chapter 4 ussa athletics

Men’s Alpine USSA Physician Pool Program Dr . Terrence Orr, Barton Healthcare The USSA Physician Pool is comprised of more Women’s Alpine than 200 licensed medical providers of various Dr . William Sterett, Vail Summit Orthopedics, specialties who volunteer their time and Vail, CO financial resources to provide medical services to the team . Requirements include screening Freestyle by the USSA Medical Committee and regular Dr . David Goltz, Mt . Tam Orthopedics, participation in USSA training courses . Once Larkspur, CA established as pool members, medical providers Snowboarding are scheduled annually to travel with a team Dr . Tom Hackett, Steadman Clinic, Vail, CO to provide medical care and assistance to you Freeskiing and USSA staff .

Dr . Andrew Cooper, Comprehensive Team Physical Therapist/Athletic Trainer Orthopedics, Salt Lake City, UT The ongoing management of daily athlete Nordic care is accomplished though head team Dr . Larry Gaul, Avanti Cardiology, Vail, CO therapists or trainers who travel with the teams on a full time basis . Their job is to make certain Alpine Development all parties interfacing with athletes have a Dr . Vern Cooley, Rosenberg Cooley Clinic, clear understanding of athletes’ participation Park City, UT status and any ongoing issues that are being Neurology Consultant addressed medically . The job of the Team PT/ Dr . Jeffery Kutcher, University of Michigan/ ATC is to supervise the overall management Neurosport, Ann Arbor, MI and coordination of athlete medical care with respect to all medically related issues . They Team Physicians utilize the team physicians to provide expertise Team physicians are responsible for keeping and guidance in accomplishing their job as well abreast of the medical issues involved with as the support of USSA Physician Pool members athletes they oversee . They serve as the primary and PT/ATC rotational pool members for daily resource for the head coach, therapist/trainer, medical coverage of camps and competitions . medical director or coordinator regarding Physical Therapist and/or Athletic Trainer medical issues relating to an athlete’s ability Rotational Pool to train or compete . They also provide The USSA has established a rotational pool of recommendations regarding further evaluation, volunteer PTs and ATCs from clinics around the diagnostic procedures and treatment plans and country to provide daily medical management maintain up-to-date information on the medical at camps and competitions . They are and participation status of all athletes . responsible for acute care while with the team as well as communicating ongoing medical chapter 4 ussa athletics 34

issue management strategies to the Team PT UTPhysical Therapy Clinics and/or ATC, medical director or coordinator to Olympic Physical Therapy, Seattle, WA; ensure continuity of care . The rotational pool Glendale, AZ is completely voluntary or sponsored by USSA Rebound Physical Therapy, Bend, OR regional medical sponsors . These voluntary PTs Saco Bay Orthopedic and Sports Physical and ATCs take time away from their established Therapy, Portland, ME employment to provide medical care to Yampa Valley Medical Center, Steamboat teams . The Team PT and/or ATC are responsible Springs, CO for scheduling these volunteers, which is McKay Dee/Stewart Rehab, Ogden, UT determined by resource allocation from teams to cover travel expenses . Dental

USSA MEDICAL REGIONAL SPONSORS Advanced Dentistry, Park City, UT The USSA has developed a regional medical Aesthetics Dentistry, Vail, CO sponsorship program to formalize the many Imaging established relationships with medical service Salt Lake MRI, South Jordan, UT providers across the country . This includes hospitals, physical therapy clinics and medical This coordinated system of medical care support clinics . These sponsorships currently supply ensures coverage of more than 140 camps and extensive physical therapy/athletic trainer events annually . The time and commitment support to the rotational pool, sports medicine of these individuals is critical to medical supplies, expedited medical services and management of you, an elite-level athlete, and athlete injury rehabilitation . Most of all they your quest for success . provide seamless continuity of care for you, The USSA provides a wide range of medical which optimizes proper medical management services for athletes . But ultimately it is the as well as helping the USSA manage expenses athlete’s responsibility to professionally integrate associated with medical services . within the medical program to best utilize Hospitals these services . The USSA provides you with a well-funded athletic program and has an Barton Memorial Hospital, South Lake Tahoe, CA investment in you, as a national team athlete . Mammoth Hospital, Mammoth Lakes, CA Your understanding and compliance with USSA’s Vail Valley Medical Center, Vail, CO medical requirements is your responsibility as a Park City Medical Center, Park City, UT team member . Orthopedic Clinics Desert Orthopedics, Bend, OR Mt . Tam Orthopedics, Larkspur, CA Rosenberg-Cooley Clinic, Park City, UT Steadman Hawkins Clinic, Vail, CO Calton/Harrison Clinic, Ogden, UT Washington Orthopedic Clinic, Centralia, WA Vail Valley Medical Center Clinics, Vail, CO Comprehensive Orthopedics, Salt Lake City, 35 chapter 4 ussa athletics

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ATHLETE MEDICAL MANAGEMENT

Basic healthcare is simple in concept, but it Exercise recommendations may also be given to can become a limiting factor in performance you based on the results from functional screens . if not managed correctly . It is absolutely The physical exam process is coordinated critical in patient care to have a complete through the Medical Department by the team’s medical record to ensure efficient quality care. head PT and/or ATC and team physician . A complete picture allows for better overall Ideally, it is completed annually before your management of medical conditions that could team’s first camp. The process includes: impact the athlete’s ability to train and perform . • Medical release, medical history and MEDICAL MANAGEMENT – STRUCTURE AND emergency contact information PROCEDURES • Review of immunization status with Medical Information Management – Team education regarding current trends Medical Notebooks Ongoing management of individual • Review of medications and completion of performance-related medical issues can be anti-doping restrictive substance forms problematic with many different medical • General medical exam and orthopedic providers integrating to provide support . This is screening especially challenging with the diversity of the • Identification of any critical issues to USSA’s teams . be addressed USSA Medical utilizes web based medical • Annual hip screen history and electronic medical record keeping to help manage medical history, emergency • Concussion baseline screening that include contact information and other ongoing issues ImPACT neurocognitive screen for athletes . These sites include any required • Y-Balance screen reference to clearance for participation and at what level . All ongoing treatment or • Complete Notice of Privacy release forms management changes are recorded in these Medical Coverage of Camps and Events sites to ensure continuity of care . The benefits of professional medical coverage

Annual Physical Exam Screening Process includes expert medical care in an emergency All team athletes must undergo a periodic as well as providing a resource to the coaching sports physical exam with orthopedic screening . staff to make good athlete management Activation of your athlete insurance requires decisions . Good management decisions this exam and must certify that you are cleared minimize time lost by an athlete to injury as to train and compete in team conditioning, well as reducing risk of further injury . Providing training camps and competitions . The USSA adequate care for both ongoing overuse or retains the right to require further medical injury management, as well as acute triage examination based upon your medical findings. care in more significant injuries, is accomplished 37 chapter 4 ussa athletics

through several tiers of medical support for elite 4 . Complete initial injury report to USSA team coverage: team therapist/trainer, team Medical within 24 hours . physician and support rotation from the PT/ATC 5 . Make sure insurance forms are completed . pool and physician pool . Serious Injury Procedure Emergent Action Plans 1 . Should a more serious injury occur requiring Emergent Action Plans (EAP) detail the various more definitive care, the process will involve: responsibilities of staff members should an initial site triage/stabilization followed by emergency occur . Team medical staff is transport to designated facility as per responsible for establishing and discussing established EAP . Either physician, PT and/or this plan with team personnel as well as ATC or team staff should accompany the completing a location-specific EAP for each athlete to the hospital to act on their behalf . event or training venue . These plans provide staff and volunteers with an understanding and 2 . Contact USSA Medical as soon as medically accountability for the management of medical stable to relay current status information, emergency situations . immediate plan and possible further transport requirements . USSA Medical or team ACUTE INJURY PROCEDURES personnel will inform athlete emergency When an athlete is injured while competing contact and USSA Executive staff . or training, it is essential to properly manage the injury to minimize time away from training 3 . Once the extent of injury is determined and and competition . Depending on the extent initial stabilization of life/limb threatening and nature of the injury, there are several situations is accomplished, further treatment steps involved in returning an athlete to full options will be discussed between the training loads and competition . No matter athlete and/or family, USSA on-site medical what the injury is, the information needs to be staff and USSA Medical regarding the best incorporated into the overall management plan for the athlete based on injury, current scheme of that athlete . status limitations and recommended options .

General Injury Process 4 . USSA Medical enlists the expertise of the chief physician and other committee 1 . Communicate injury status with PT and/ members as per injury to provide the athlete or ATC and head coach to facilitate rapid and/or parents with recommendations care and appropriate medical assistance . regarding best options for treatment based 2 . If the athlete requires further immediate on injury and situation . care or diagnostics, as per team EAP, 5 . The athlete and/or family reserves the right physician/trainer or coach accompanies to make the final decision with regard athlete to hospital or clinic (take to further treatment options based on insurance information) . recommendations . Once the decision 3 . Notify USSA Medical as soon as possible is determined from the athlete and/or (ASAP) as to injury extent, current status and family regarding the immediate plan for immediate plan . the athlete, a USSA Team Manager and/ chapter 4 ussa athletics 38

or USSA executive will complete travel Process for Further Care and Communication arrangements . Once initial evaluation and diagnosis have 6 . Medical Director will contact physician of been made on-site and it is determined that the choice that athlete will travel to and make athlete requires further evaluation or diagnostic necessary appointment arrangements . testing, the athlete will return home or to the chosen physician . Communication procedures 7 . Insurance company alerted by USSA for physicians evaluating a USSA athlete at Medical and on-site coach, PT/ATC or home are as follows: physician . Fax insurance forms to USSA . 1 . USSA Medical will contact the receiving Minor Injury Procedure physician to arrange appointment and In situations where the injury incurred is minor in initiate communication process . nature and can be managed without returning 2 . Once the athlete is evaluated and a home, the following adjustments in procedures diagnosis determined, the physician will and communication flow can be made: notify USSA Medical as soon as possible 1 . Triage at site, extent of injury determined by with the final diagnosis and recommended on-site personnel or local services . treatment course .

2 . Attending physician, PT and/or ATC, 3 . USSA Medical will communicate the coach and athlete determine the best definitive diagnosis to the team – PT/ATC or management plan to return the athlete to coach, team physician, Team Manager and training and competition . USSA Executive staff .

3. Team PT and/or ATC notifies USSA Medical 4 . If the athlete desires a second opinion, USSA and team staff of injury, athlete status Medical will work to facilitate that decision and plan . and arrange appointments necessary .

4 . USSA Medical informs USSA Executive staff . 5 . A copy of all physician chart notes and Injuries That Occur When NOT with the Team diagnostic test results should be faxed to USSA Medical to be included in athlete file. As a national team athlete, it is your responsibility to report all injuries and illnesses to USSA Medical on the same day they occur . Notify your team’s head PT and/or ATC . If unavailable, inform the medical director immediately . They will assist in coordinating your care which may include further evaluation or referral to a USSA pool physician or a local medical center . If you seek outside medical care, it is critical that you coordinate that activity with your team’s head PT and/or ATC . You also are required to clear a medical evaluation conducted by the Medical Department prior to participating in USSA athletic activities . 39 chapter 4 ussa athletics

SURGICAL PROCEDURES AND COMMUNICATION facilities, estimated time off from injury and time WITH THE USSA of year, school attendance, age of athlete The USSA invests a significant amount of and home support . The goal is to create the money annually to provide the best training best overall arrangement for you to rehabilitate and support services necessary for you to efficiently and effectively in a supportive perform at the highest possible level . While it environment . is recognized that any athlete has the right Communication throughout Rehabilitation to choose a physician or therapy situation in which they have confidence, the USSA also All USSA physical therapists or partner facilities is committed to providing the best possible are responsible for weekly communication to resources for the most optimal outcome if USSA Medical regarding athletes’ rehabilitation surgery is needed . USSA Medical will work to progress including progress notes and detailed provide you and your family with the foremost exercise reports . This information is forwarded to non-biased information regarding all options the Team PT/ATC and coaches . USSA Medical available . Recommendations will be based will stay in contact with you, your home therapist on solid research and experience in order to and physician throughout the initial phase make the best decision regarding your injury, of rehabilitation to ensure communication possible surgery, recommended treatment between all individuals . and rehabilitative process . If you choose to go Once a solid rehabilitation program is outside the recommendations of the USSA or the established, administrative communication sponsored resources, you must recognize the is not as frequent and the Team PT and/ responsibility for increased cost over and above or ATC will periodically check in with you to what insurance will reimburse . This increased assure all is going well with the rehab process . expense is your responsibility and includes Sport Science interaction is encouraged as both surgical interventions as well as physical soon as is reasonable, and communication is rehabilitation . facilitated between your home therapist and Rehabilitation Process Sport Science . At the end of the competitive season and beginning of new training year, Ideally, injured athletes are most efficiently and the Team PT/ATC will increase communication effectively rehabilitated through a process with you and your home therapist to begin monitored directly by USSA staff or its partner the reconditioning transition, utilizing all parties individuals/facilities that have a complete involved to design your plan . When appropriate, understanding of stresses encountered through you will transition to the reconditioning phase, your sport . USSA Medical will work to arrange which will be managed in a coordinated effort the best possible rehabilitative situation based between the Team PT/ATC, team physiologist, on the injury sustained, physician evaluation conditioning coach and home rehabilitation and diagnosis with a recommended plan . therapist . Other factors in creating optimal conditions for rehabilitation include: home location and Reconditioning Phase chapter 4 ussa athletics 40

When returning from injury, there is a transitional 2 . Functional clearance from the therapist phase in which the athlete is beyond formal and/or trainer working with the athlete . rehabilitation but is clearly not ready for the full 3 . USSA Medical approval of the functional training loads of conditioning, let alone on-snow clearance evaluation when conducted training. This phase has become identified outside USSA Medical staff . as the “reconditioning phase” . This phase is a gradual transition from formal therapy 4 . Development of a Return to Snow program to a program designed specifically for the for reintegration into team camp situation . demands of your sport . This is probably the most Written clearance faxed to USSA Medical important phase in returning an athlete to full (435 .940 .2798) will be required from both the performance capability . physician and therapist, clearing the athlete The home rehabilitation therapist, Team PT and/ to participate in normal training and/or or ATC, team physiologist and coach initially will competition and including any recommended manage this phase . As the athlete progresses restrictions . to more standard conditioning, the Team PT Following official clearance, the athlete will and/or ATC becomes primarily responsible for progress through an established RTS program management of this phase and will give the developed by the Team PT and/or ATC with physiologist direction in appropriate changes to support from coaches and Sport Science . accommodate transition and progression to on- USSA MEDICAL FACILITIES snow training . Communication and coordination The USSA Physical Therapy and Athletic Training in this phase is absolutely critical in creating a room is located in the USSA Center of Excellence successful outcome . It also is desirable to have in Park City and is open for the prevention, the athlete come to the USSA training center treatment and rehabilitation of USSA national frequently to ensure the best integration of care team athletes . An ATC or licensed PT administers and program design . medical care and treatment . All treatments are Medical Clearance for Athletes Returning performed until the medical staff determines from Injury they are no longer required . Treatments outside Because most athletes are highly motivated of training room hours are by appointment only . to return to full activity and training as soon as Please be respectful of USSA Medical staff and possible, it is sometimes difficult to assess their be on time for your appointments! readiness for the spectrum of training activities Contact both on and off snow . To assist in this evaluation, the USSA has established a more formalized Jenn Kimball, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, Senior process to define what the athlete is ready to Rehabilitation Specialist do . This process includes the following steps: 435 .647 .2062 jkimball@ussa .org 1. Official medical clearance from the treating physician and USSA approved team physician . 41 chapter 4 ussa athletics

MEDICAL EVACUATION

The USSA is committed to ensuring that team Medical . Med Ex or Global Rescue can be used athletes receive the best injury care available . if a situation warrants medical evacuation . To this end, the USSA maintains relationships with Athletes who require evacuation will be two companies that are capable of providing airlifted to the most suitable medical facility for medical evacuation from any location in immediate care and then taken to a U S. . facility the world to a facility requested by the USSA for further medical evaluation .

CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Concussion is a brain injury and is defined as a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by biomechanical forces . Several common features that incorporate clinical, pathologic and biomechanical injury constructs that may be utilized in defining the nature of a concussive head injury include:

1 . Concussion may be caused either by a Immediate symptoms include headache direct blow to the head, face, neck or or head pressure, dizziness, vertigo, lack of elsewhere on the body with an ‘‘impulsive’ awareness, nausea, vomiting, loss of balance, force transmitted to the head . feeling dazed and foggy, blurred/double vision and photosensitivity . Physical signs may include 2 . Concussion typically results in the loss of consciousness, seizure, delayed verbal rapid onset of short-lived impairment responses, slurred speech, memory deficits and of neurological function that resolves poor balance . Other symptoms in an unresolved spontaneously . However, in some cases, concussion can include feeling sleepy, poor symptoms and signs may evolve over a attention and concentration, irritability, anxiety, number of minutes to hours . depression and sleep disturbance . 3 . Concussion may result in neuropathological TREATMENT AND LONG TERM EFFECTS changes, but the acute clinical symptoms largely reflect a functional disturbance Unless there is a brain lesion, most concussions rather than a structural injury and, as can be treated and resolved with careful such, no abnormality is seen on standard monitoring, treatment and rest . However, structural neuroimaging studies . repeated concussions can cause major health problems, particularly in athletes under the age 4 . Concussion results in a graded set of clinical of 21 . A second blow within days or weeks after symptoms that may or may not involve loss a prior concussion is called Second Impact of consciousness . Resolution of the clinical Syndrome and it often leads to death . This is the and cognitive symptoms typically follows a main reason why we restrict your return to sport sequential course . However, it is important to following a concussion . It is for your safety and note that in some cases symptoms may be protection . Post-Concussive Syndrome is where prolonged . symptoms may not resolve for weeks, months chapter 4 ussa athletics 42

or years after a concussion . It is possible that RETURNING TO SPORT you may be more susceptible to concussion if Return-to-sport protocols are complex and you have this syndrome and you must not have follow formal progression protocol . Complaints any of these symptoms before you return or you of symptoms to your teammates, family, risk permanent damage . A severe long-term the press or to your coaches may also be effect of multiple concussions can be Chronic considered in the return-to-sport evaluation Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), sometimes process. The final decision for return to known as punch drunk syndrome . It is a form of competition is the responsibility of your head dementia and can result in permanent symptoms coach after return to sport clearance from your including Parkinsonism, speech and memory concussion management team (your Team problems, slowed mental processing and tremor . PT/ATC, team doctor, medical director and It shares features with Alzheimer’s disease . traveling doctor) . Treatment after a concussion typically includes If, for some reason you do not comply with the prescribed rest, plenty of sleep, sometimes above treatment protocol, you will be restricted medication and a gradual and closely from returning to training or competition . As monitored return to sport program in close mentioned, concussions are a serious condition collaboration with your medical team trainer and without professional assessment, treatment and concussion management team . and careful return-to-sport management, you In summary, concussion can have serious long may suffer a permanent medical condition . term and fatal effects and you are required to LEGAL REQUIREMENTS report any suspected concussion to your sports medicine staff or head coach immediately and As per the Protection of Athletes with Head follow their recommendations and advice . Injuries Act passed in the 2011 General Session in the State of Utah, the USSA is required to adopt IF YOU SUFFER A HEAD INJURY and enforce a concussion and head injury If you suffer a head injury, you will be pulled policy . This act requires us to have a concussion from training or competition and not allowed to and head injury policy and restricts any athlete return until a thorough medical evaluation can under 18 years old that has a head injury from take place and a return to sport progression competition until a diagnosis of concussion is is completed . As a requirement of your team made . It also requires us to educate you and Agreement, all athletes will undergo periodic your coaches on the signs and symptoms of baseline (ImPACT, Scat2 and BESS) evaluations concussion and head injury . Consequently, every three years . you and your coaches will undergo regular education about concussion and head injury . It is our policy, and good practice, to adhere to these procedures for all USSA athletes . 43 chapter 14 introductionussa athletics to the team manual

Concussion Injury Protocol Flow Chart Head Injury Team Trainer/on call MD on-hill assessment Initial Triage/Evaluation

Concussion On site medical eval/SCAT2 by Team PT/ATC and traveling MD TBI (NO LOC, Symptoms resolve quickly) Transport to Medical Facility adult athletes 18 yo maybe cleared same day (LOC, ++ symptoms, deterioration)

Observation with guidelines Hospital Evaluation (PT care instructions for home) (Clinical Evaluation, CT, Observation) Emphasis on Physical/Cognitive Rest * If Brain Lesion/Blood is found on Neuroimaging RTS will be on case to case basis Symptoms Improve / Clear Normal Neuro eval / balance assessment Cleared Clinically > Observation By Team PT/ATC and MD (PT care instructions for home) PCSS back to baseline / Asymptomatic

Prolonged Resolution Symptoms ImPACT post injury assessment ( 3 weeks) Returned to Baseline (Evaluated by Dr. Mark Lovell/Melinda Roalstad) Medical Treatment Think Head First or appropriate consult Supervised Training Progression - If abnormal delay in recovery Return to general activity - Psychological issues identified Special Balance retraining - Cognitive problems ongoing Sport Specific conditioning - Further imaging studies Progression into competition - Full neurocognitive evaluation Supervised by USSA Medical - Consider use of medications as appropriate

Asymptomatic OR Symptoms Return with training progression abnormal prolonged recovery Final Clearance or Release 1. Normal Medical/Neuro/Balance Evaluations evaluated by USSA Medical or appropriate health care provider 2. Normal ImPACT/SCAT2 - back to baseline/within normal limits 3. Full exertion in sport with no return of any symptoms 4. Medical Clearance to be provided by Concussion Management Team (USSA Medical Director, Head Team Physician, Mark Lovell PhD and/or Melinda Roalstad PAC) chapter 4 ussa athletics 44

ANTI-DOPING The USSA, as the NGB for Olympic skiing and snowboarding, is required by the IOC, USOC and FIS to comply with the anti-doping rules and regulations established internationally by the WADA in its code for eligibility in these sports . Ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with each athlete .

YOUR ANTI-DOPING RESPONSIBILITY forms and submission for approval lies with the Your understanding and management of anti- athlete . USSA Medical will educate athletes doping rules and procedures is critical in each regarding these restrictions and the process . of the following areas . It is your responsibility Out-of-Competition Testing Pools to both know the rules and manage yourself Elite athletes at or above a specific national or within them . Anti-doping management can be international ranking are required to participate a challenge, but it is a responsibility that comes in testing for prohibited substances outside of with participation in sport . competitions . The FIS establishes the criteria for WADA CODE AND FIS ANTI-DOPING RULES the International Out-of-Competition (OOC) Test USSA Medical facilitates educational Pool and USADA establishes the criteria for the opportunities for athletes, staff, and volunteers National OOC Test Pool . The USSA must provide to obtain an understanding of all rules/ a list of athletes who fit the criteria and facilitates requirements outlined in the WADA code and FIS communication of compliance requirements to anti-doping rules . This includes the requirements the athletes. Those identified athletes establish of United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) . the OOC test pools for USADA (national) and The following websites are essential for you to FIS (international) . It is possible that an athlete understand your responsibilities as an elite-level identified for the national pool would not be athlete with regard to anti-doping: included in the international pool . However, if an athlete is identified for the international pool, WADA: www .wada-ama .org they also will be included in the national pool . USADA: www .usantidoping .org As a national team athlete, you are responsible FIS: http://www.fis-ski.com/inside-fis/medical- for communication of your location information antidoping/anti-doping/ within the program deadlines . USSA Medical will All responsibility and requirements including facilitate communication with athletes in regard those required by USADA, WADA and/or to missed test allegations by FIS or USADA .

FIS solely relies with the athlete . The USSA is It is your responsibility to be compliant with a resource only and is not responsible for the requirements of both FIS and USADA completing forms . OOC test pools . USSA Medical will assist you in Therapeutic Use Exemptions understanding the requirements for compliance Certain medications utilized to treat normal as well as your rights to provide explanation medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes should you encounter a missed test due to are listed on the banned substances list and inadequate location information, no location require a special exemptions process for legal information or not being present at the use . Responsibility for completing all necessary location listed . 45 chapter 4 ussa athletics

Bryan Fletcher © Getty Images

Continuing Education USSA Medical provides ongoing education for athletes, coaches, PT/ATCs and physicians on banned medications, current rules and regulations as well as policy and procedures for conducting in and out-of-competition doping controls .

USADA provides online information on the status of pharmaceuticals and some over the counter medications at http://www .globaldro .org/ . In addition, USADA publishes an annual Guide to Prohibited Substances and Methods of Doping that is available either on the USADA website or as a hard copy publication at no cost to the athlete .

USSA Liaisons to Anti-Doping Agencies USSA Medical also provides a liaison to the national and international anti-doping organizations to work towards more effective and efficient anti-doping controls at events. chapter 4 ussa athletics 46

RETIREMENT

For USADA purposes, any athlete who retires to participate on any team organized or must promptly inform USADA and his/her nominated by the USOC, or any International respective NGB, in writing through fax, courier, Event . To re-enroll in the USADA RTP, an athlete or e-mail . If an athlete sends the retirement must send a return from retirement statement statement via e-mail, the retirement statement through courier, fax, or e-mail to USADA . If must come from an e-mail address that is on file an athlete sends the return from retirement with USADA . statement via e-mail, the statement must come from an e-mail address that is on file with USADA. It is very important for the athlete to check with his/her respective IF for its policy on retirement . Pursuant to the USOC National Anti-Doping Under the USOC National Anti-Doping Policies, Policies, all Athletes or other Persons who are any athlete who has not provided advance candidates for membership on the U .S . Olympic written notice of retirement to USADA and then or Paralympic teams must be enrolled in the refuses to participate in a USADA OOC test USADA RTP for a period up to twelve (12) months claiming retirement will be subject to an anti- before the commencement of the competition . doping Additionally, an athlete should confirm whether rules violation . his/her particular IF has additional requirements in order for him/her to regain eligibility If an athlete retires, he/she is immediately after retirement . removed from the USADA Registered Testing Pool (RTP) and will no longer have to comply All athletes returning from retirement will be with certain athlete requirements such as treated as a new athlete to the USADA RTP and providing whereabouts information. To confirm will be notified by USADA in accordance with retirement, an athlete will receive a retirement the USOC National Anti-Doping Policies . letter from USADA stating the date of retirement, withdrawal from retirement information and return from retirement options should an athlete wish to return to competition at a later date .

Return from Retirement

In accordance with the USOC National Anti- Doping Policies, if an athlete wants to come out of retirement and return to eligible status, he/she must enroll in the USADA RTP for at least six (6) months in advance of any participating in any Competition or Event sanctioned or organized by the USOC, any national or regional championship sanctioned by an NGB or any other member of the USOC or who wishes 47 chapter 4 ussa athletics

TRAINING CENTER ACCESS

The USSA’s Center of Excellence is a state-of- 2 . U .S . Ski Team/U S. . Snowboarding/U .S . the-art facility designed to bring USSA athletes Freeskiing Coaches, Sport Directors, Sport to the highest levels of performance . The level Science, Medicine and Education staff are of concentration and focus of USSA athletes is allowed any time when performing duties critical to the execution of their training in the to assist athletes . The USSA Executive staff Center and must not be subject to distraction are allowed anytime when overseeing from other sources . The Training Center staff operations . The Building Superintendent and USSA coaches are the only individuals who is allowed anytime when performing should interact with athletes during training official functions. at the Center of Excellence . To facilitate the 3 . U .S . Ski Team/U S. . Snowboarding Alumni are exclusive training atmosphere for our athletes, allowed to work out or visit the strength/ all individuals will follow the following policy cardio and locker room facility with prior regarding access to the Training Center . arrangements from the Center of Excellence 1 . USSA elite team athletes (including athletes Facility Manager between the hours of 2 in non-team programs who receive p .m . and 4:30 p .m . individual support from the USSA) are 4 . USSA staff are allowed to work out in the allowed any time under the supervision of facility before 8 a .m ., from 12 p m. . to 1 p m. . their national team coach or a USSA staff and after 5 p m. . weekdays . member . This includes non-team athletes who were a part of a World Cup or World 5 . USSA Trustees and USSA board members are Championship squad during the previous or allowed to tour the facility with an escort current seasons (except for nation’s group from a USSA Executive, Communications, skiers/riders), X Games finalists, and top-30 Sport Director or the Sport Science or Sport (Men)/top-15 (Women) AFP ranked athletes Medicine staff . – these athletes are not entitled to medical 6 . Visitors, Guests and Athlete Parents are not or sport science services, but are allowed allowed unless prior permission from the to train . Before a non-team athlete will be Executive department has been obtained added to the Center of Excellence access and a USSA Executive, Sport Director, Sport list, the respective Sport Director must Science or Sport Medicine staff member schedule an orientation with the athlete to escorts them . review all policies and procedures of the 7 . The press is not allowed unless prior Training Area . This orientation must include permission from the Executive department one sport, one medical and one Sport has been obtained and a USSA Executive, Science staff . From time to time, non-team Sport Director, or Sport Science or Sport athletes may be granted access to medical Medicine staff member escorts them . or sport science services, if capacity allows . Any such services provided to non-team 8 . Additional operational policies guiding athletes must be approved in advance by behavior within the training area may be the EVP Athletics and may be discontinued established by the Center of Excellence at any time by the EVP Athletics . Facility Manager . chapter 4 ussa athletics 48

9 . Training in the Center of Excellence facility when bouncing . Bouncing in bare feet for USSA athletes is strongly encouraged, but is not allowed . not limited to, 8 a .m .-2 p .m ., M-Sa to ensure c . Always do a stop bounce when you get maximal supervision by USSA Sport Science out of the center or out of control . staff . The hours of 2-5 p .m . are reserved for daily administration by Sport Science staff, d . Step off (don’t bounce) when getting off so session supervision is not guaranteed the trampoline . during these hours . e . Do not sit on pads around the trampoline 10 . Athletes using the trampoline area must while you are waiting your turn . have direct supervision by their designated f . Do not use trampoline without USSA U .S . Ski Team/U .S . Snowboarding/U .S . coach present Freeskiing coach . 14 . Non-national team USSA athletes and 11 . The entire ramp/tramp area may only athletes belonging to other NGB national be used by one team at a time . Training teams may be granted access to specific times are coordinated through Center training areas (weight room, cardio center, of Excellence training center manager . gymnasium, locker room and, for ski/ U .S . Ski Team/U .S . Snowboarding/U .S . snowboard athletes only, the ramps/tramps) Freeskiing coaches are also able to book by the Training Center Manager under the training times during the 2-4:30 p .m . period . following conditions: All booked training times require direct a . All participants must be current USSA coach supervision . During times when members, or current national team no teams have scheduled training, U .S . members of another sport . Snowboarding/U .S . Freeskiing athletes will have open access to the ramps area, b . Athletes are supervised by an NGB however it is suggested that they check certified coach, who has passed the availability in advance . Trampolines are National Center for Safety Initiatives (NCSI) off-limits without coach supervision, and solo background screening process within the skating during unscheduled training times is last three years (maximum 10 athletes not allowed – skating with a teammate or per coach) . with a supervising coach is mandatory . c . Athletes and coaches schedule a tour 12 . Helmets are required for all users of the of the training area with the Center of ramps area . Sport Directors and coaches Excellence Facility Manager to receive an may require their athletes to wear additional overview of the training area equipment protection while using the ramps area . and a review of all applicable USSA policies and procedures . 13 . Trampoline Safety Rules d . Athletes have signed and submitted the a . Only one person at a time on relevant USSA waivers and forms . A USSA the trampoline . Center of Excellence assumption of risk and b . Wear clean socks or trampoline slippers release of liability and indemnity agreement 49 chapter 4 ussa athletics

must be completed by each athlete who Center of Excellence Facility Manager with is not already a USSA member . These forms proof of liability insurance that complies with are to be stored in a locked filing cabinet in the USOC minimum requirements for general the Center of Excellence by the Center of liability insurance and must name USSA Excellence Facility Manager . as an additional insured and certificate holder . Proof of athlete participant accident e . Training times have been pre-arranged insurance and workers compensation and pre-approved by the Center of insurance must be furnished . USSA clubs Excellence Facility Manager . Non-national participating in the USSA Club Insurance team USSA athletes may only be granted program are exempt from this requirement . access to the training area between 2 p m. . and 4:30 p.m. M-F unless specifically invited *Minimum requirements for General Liability by a U .S . Ski Team/U .S . Snowboarding coach Insurance: or director for a specific camp or special Each occurrence $1,000,000 project (based on approval of the Center of Excellence Facility Manager) . National Damage to rented premises $50,000 team athletes from other NGBs may also Medical expenses (per person) $5,000 be granted access by the Training Center Personal and advanced injury $1,000,000 Manager 8 a .m .-2 p m. . M-F or 2 p m. -4:30. p .m . M-F based on availability and demand . General aggregate $5,000,000 During the months of December through Products $1,000,000 March, access can be granted 8 a m. -. 4:30 p .m . i . Testing will not be available for non-U .S . Ski Team/U .S . Snowboarding athletes, unless f . Applicable fees are paid in advance specifically negotiated and for a fee, and (see Center of Excellence Rate Card) – NO only in rare cases . Fees will be determined EXCEPTIONS . Fees should be collected by by type of testing, timing of testing and the Center of Excellence Facility Manager manpower and consumable requirements . before training times are approved . 15 . Athletes from other skiing/snowboarding g . Non-U .S . Ski Team/U .S . Snowboarding national teams may only be permitted Team athletes must enter the training area access (for no fee) if mutually through the main entrance to the Center of recommended by the Center of Excellence Excellence and check-in with the front desk Facility Manager and the sport’s Head before training . The Center of Excellence Coach, and approved by the EVP, Athletics Facility Manager will provide the front desk and the CEO of USSA . In principle, foreign with a list of athletes who have completed athletes are only invited to train at the the waiver forms training sessions and Center of Excellence for strategic reasons responsible coaches for the day . (i .e . we want to watch them train to see h . A non-USSA athletes’ NGB or a non- how they manage their training, we want national team USSA athlete must furnish the to assess their physical characteristics for chapter 1 introductionchapter to the 4 team ussa athleticsmanual 5050

application to our own athletes, etc .) and Contact on a one-off basis . Dr . Troy Flanagan, High Performance Director 16 . If an accident occurs resulting in injury to a 435 .602 .9506 USSA athlete, non-USSA athlete, USSA staff [email protected] member or non-USSA staff member, fill out a Mike Bahn, Strength and Conditioning First Report of Accident Form . Coordinator 17 . Prior to any athlete undergoing an 435 .714 .8311 exhaustive physical test in the Center of mbahn@ussa .org Excellence training or testing areas, a pre- Luke Bodensteiner, Executive Vice President, test questionnaire must be completed Athletics All national team athletes should contact one 435 .647 .2055 of the following staff members to receive prior lbodensteiner@ussa .org approval for parents and/or guests to visit the (Media Requests Only) USSA Training Center . For any media requests, Tom Kelly, Vice President, Communications please contact . Requests must be made no 435 .647 .2010 later than 24 hours in advance . We appreciate tkelly@ussa .org your adherence to this policy .

Billy Demong © Sarah Brunson/U.S. Ski Team chapter 4 ussa athletics 51

USSA SPORT EDUCATION

USSA Sport Education develops educational athletes you work with can understand and resources and provides clinics for coaches, make positive change . national team athletes clubs, athletes and parents . Resources and need to go through the certification system training cover topics within sport science, starting at the first level. The USSA supports its sports management and sport-specific retiring athletes by waiving the on-snow clinic technique and tactics so that USSA coaches fees for current national team athletes and for have the opportunity to receive athletes within the first year of retirement from a comprehensive education . the team . After this, alumni athletes receive a 50 percent discount on regular clinic fees . For more We encourage you as a national team athlete information, or to sign up for clinics, contact to pursue coaching after you retire from the Coaches Education at education@ussa org,. or team . Your sport experiences, sport knowledge call 435 .647 .2050 . and athleticism are tremendously valuable to clubs . Being able to share your knowledge can ATHLETE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES be incredibly rewarding . Whether you take on USSA Sport Education has built a reputation a regular coaching position with a USSA club for developing some of the best coaching or simply offer your help on a drop-in basis educational materials in the country . One key for camps or projects, you can help the U .S . to the success of the program and the quality continue its tradition of success . In most cases, of its materials has been the great support and the job market is very good for coaches with the cooperation from national team athletes and athletic experience you possess . Some of these coaches . In all of its CDs/DVDs, USSA athletes club jobs are posted on the USSA website . There and coaches are featured in pictures, video is a club job postings page at www .ussa .org . interviews, competition highlights and skill/drill If you’re interested in a regular coaching demonstrations . This helps to ensure the quality position, we encourage you to start your of material presented is first class and helps to education as a coach during or immediately establish credibility with target audiences . USSA after your time on the team . Retiring athletes Sport Education, or your coaches, may ask generally have incredible knowledge of their you to participate in video demonstrations or sport at the elite levels but find it difficult to relay interviews to be used as part of this content from their knowledge in the most effective way with time-to-time . We appreciate your willingness to younger athletes. It can be a difficult transition take part and ask that you come prepared in from the individual focus you have as an athlete appropriate team clothing to represent you and to being able to manage the varied needs of the team in the best way possible . multiple athletes who have a very different skill set than you as an elite athlete . This is where coaching education comes in – you will learn how to teach the skills you know in a way 52 chapter 4 ussa athletics

Maddie Bowman © Sarah Brunson/U.S. Freeskiing

USSA COMPETITION SERVICES The USSA manages more than 4,000 sanctioned competitions across all sports through USSA Competition Services . Athletic competitions are the reason why athletes participate in USSA programs . Competition Services is responsible for rules, rankings, calendars and coordinating the education of USSA members through interaction with the FIS, USSA sport committees and USSA clubs and manages the Junior Championship program and the Alpine Masters program . chapter 4 ussa athletics 53

RULES event quality through training, certification, management and recognition of competition Each sport is responsible for annually updating, officials. producing and distributing the rules governing USSA competitions, as well as interfacing PUBLICATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS with the FIS on international rules . The USSA’s The USSA has a network of 425 clubs with 30,000 Competition Services staff annually edits and athletes, officials and coaches. Competition produces the USSA Competition Guides . The Services is responsible for communications USSA and FIS rules are available under each including production of sport-specific sport at www .ussa .org . competition guides and officials’ manuals. RACE CALENDAR Periodic newsletters, www ussa. org. and e-communications are used to communicate Each sport develops athletic calendars in with members . cooperation with the USSA sport committees and the FIS . Calendar planning by the USSA USSA MEMBER CLUB PROGRAM is critical to developing successful athletic Clubs are where our team members come programs . Competition Services manages from! As a national team member, it is important the USA FIS calendar and the USA domestic to recognize the clubs and coaches that calendar with the various sports and our site helped you along the way . Be sure that the partners . Calendars are available under each club affiliation represented in your athlete bio sport at www .ussa .org . accurately reflects the club or clubs that were RESULTS integral to your development . This information is sometimes used when USSA does club Competition Services staff manages the recognition and tracking . We are encouraging collection of results from organizers, including clubs more and more to take a long-term crosschecks on the conduct of the event approach to athlete development, so if a club according to the rules, financial control (head or coach made a significant contribution when tax) and collection of accident reports . Results you were younger, you should talk about it and are processed to the USSA Athlete Points System recognize those people . and posted at www .ussa .org . Through the new USSA Club Development RANKINGS program, the USSA is enhancing the resources The USSA has been a world leader in and recognition provided to clubs that will development and management of ranking help them develop even more elite athletes systems for alpine, cross country, freestyle and and increase the enjoyment in sport leading snowboarding . Competition Services manages to better athlete recruitment and retention . integration into both USSA and FIS ranking Club Development supports all aspects of club systems and is involved in regular review of operations and programming . ranking systems to ensure they are managed with By being available to your club when possible integrity and updated to fit the athletic direction. for ski/ride days with the athletes and coaches, OFFICIALS EDUCATION helping present award, participating in a The proper conduct of USSA and FIS events is fundraiser, or other activities, you can make an critical to the success of the sport . Competition incredible impact . Be proud of where you Services strives for the highest standards of came from! chapter nationalathlete 25services team membership and responsibilities Hannah Kearney © Getty Images chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 55

ATHLETE SERVICES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The USSA’s primary responsibility is delivery of world-class athletic programs to its athletes, and those athletic programs always take priority . Just like any world-class professional sports organization, there are many non-athletic services and programs that need management . Many of these programs bring specific benefits to USSA athletes and many programs require coordination with athletes to help support important organizational fundraising activities . ATHLETE CAREER AND EDUCATION ATHLETE EDUCATION AND SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS The USSA is as concerned about your personal and professional development as it is with TEAM ACADEMY your athletic accomplishments . We are aware The USSA TEAM Academy offers a Total of the challenges that today’s athletes face Educational and Athletic Model (TEAM) to high when dealing with the demands placed school-aged elite student athletes . Based at upon them as a member of the U .S . Ski the USSA’s Center of Excellence in Park City, Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing . Utah, the school utilizes a blended model of Expectations are high and at times it may live teaching and virtual learning to provide seem overwhelming to balance your training an educational solution . The educational and competition schedule with your desire to model of the USSA TEAM Academy provides an earn a degree, research career opportunities individualized and customizable program to best or develop an action plan for your retirement . meet the needs of each elite student athlete . Opportunities are numerous and adequate USSA TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM resources may not be so easily recognized . The The USSA’s tuition assistance program provides Athlete Career and Education Department partial tuition reimbursement for U .S . Ski is here to assist you on and off the snow . Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U S. . Freeskiing The services include: career and education athletes attending an accredited college or guidance, transition, mental health counseling university through the Borgen-Swartz Education and sport psychology consulting . Endowment . Contact UNIVERSITY OF UTAH RESIDENT TUITION PROGRAM Jory Macomber, Head of School and VP, Athlete The University of Utah has extended resident Career and Education tuition to athletes who move to Utah primarily for gmacomber@ussa .org athletic purposes . The University’s general policy Dr . Lauren Loberg, LCMHC, CC-AASP, Director of for granting residency is two years, which will Athlete Career and Education be waived under the USSA program . This allows 435 .647 .2085 athletes the in-state tuition rate beginning in his/ lloberg@ussa .org her first semester of study. 56 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY PROGRAM degrees in Nursing (MSFNP, MSNED, and MSNA) are not eligible for the grant program . Utah State University has extended resident Westminster is dedicated to working with tuition to athletes who move to Utah primarily for athletes and coordinating a class schedule athletic purposes . The University’s general policy that will offer flexibility to accommodate for granting residency is two years, which will your training and competition schedule . Visit be waived under the USSA program . This allows www .westminstercollege .edu/ussa for more athletes the in-state tuition rate beginning in his/ information . her first semester of study. Contact Utah State University will also provide academic courses via broadcasting centers within the Deb Vickery, Director START Center Center of Excellence . The school’s capabilities 801 .832 .2284 to provide courses online and at satellite dvickery@westminstercollege .edu locations compliment the athletic lifestyle . If you USSA MENTORING PROGRAM are interested in pursuing an online degree or a hybrid degree, apply to Utah State University . Conversations create insight; hence there are Visit distance .usu .edu for more information . a number of reasons that a mentoring program can be beneficial. The mentoring process is Contact enriching and fulfilling for both the mentee and Laura Zemp, Lead Advisor, USU Salt Lake Center mentor . The dialogue between you and your 385 .646 .7751 mentor will enhance both your questioning laura .zemp@usu .edu skills and thinking processes . The characteristics gained from this opportunity will help you with WESTMINSTER COLLEGE – TUITION GRANT your decision-making and problem-solving on PROGRAM and off snow . Matching will be determined by The USSA and Westminster College, a four- the Director of Athlete Career and Education year liberal arts college in Salt Lake City, have based on interests, personality and location . partnered to provide a unique program for For more information, contact the Director of elite athletes to help you fulfill your educational Athlete Career and Education . aspirations while continuing to train and ROOKIE CAMP compete . Each year, during the month of June, the USSA Westminster College has become an Official will invite newly named national team athletes Partner of Higher Education to the U .S . Ski to Park City for rookie camp . This camp will help Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing . define what being a national team member is Qualifying USSA athletes will receive full tuition about . Workshops will be conducted on USSA scholarships to attend Westminster College, as an organization, sponsors, educational at either the undergraduate or graduate advancement, team building, media training, level, with some exceptions in the MBA, MAT, transition, etc . and MS in Mental Health Counseling . Masters chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 57

TRANSITION CAMP participating USOC Sponsor-Employer in the Team USA ACP . Meeting the athletic eligibility Each year following the Olympics, during the criteria established by the USOC does not month of July, the USSA will invite veteran guarantee a position within the Team USA athletes who have made the decision to Career Program . Hiring decisions will be made retire to Park City for transition camp . This independently by the Team USA ACP Employer camp will help define what to expect as an with information provided by the USOC and athlete transition from a competitive career Adecco, the USOC’s Official Career Transition and lifestyle into life post-athletics . Workshops Management Sponsor and Administrator of the will be conducted on resumes, networking, Team USA ACP . interviewing, educational advancement, nutrition, mental health, etc . Visit www .teamusa com. for more information .

USOC ATHLETE CAREER PROGRAM USOC DEVRY UNIVERSITY

In response to the growing need for career- Since November of 2011, DeVry University related programs and services among has been an official education provider of America’s elite athletes, the USOC and its the United States Olympic Committee . With official career management service supplier, the the help from their Keller Graduate School of Adecco Group, have created the Team USA Management, DeVry University provides higher Athlete Career Program (ACP) . education opportunities for U .S . Olympic and Paralympic athletes at the undergraduate and The USOC and the Adecco Group understand graduate levels . Visit usoc .keller .devry edu. for that elite athlete’s priority is to focus on their more information . sport career . However, we also know that there comes a point in life when an individual needs USOC TUITION GRANTS to make decisions about their post-athletic USOC tuition grants are intended to encourage careers and their future . Through utilizing the athletes to further their formal education in ACP, U .S . Olympians and Olympic hopefuls can preparation for lifelong career goals and to accomplish two main objectives: defray a portion of tuition costs . 1 . Alleviate career or job-related concerns, Award Amount outside of the field of play, which will allow them to perform better while training and The total dollars available for tuition grants competing . is limited, and the reward process is highly competitive . Along with an athlete’s 2 . Better prepare them for the inevitable performance standards, financial need also transition from sport, thus allowing them to is considered when determining an award . be more focused on their sport while they Traditionally, the highest priority for awards is are an active competitor . given to those applicants who have a current By meeting the eligibility criteria, athletes are top-10 World Championships placement or qualified for consideration for an employment world ranking . However, compelling cases will opportunity with Powerade or any other be reviewed and given consideration . 58 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

Generally (based on budget availability) the after the submission deadline . Incomplete or following payment schedule will be applied: late applications will be returned to the NGB and the athlete will be notified if ineligible for the International Rank / Tuition Award Range current quarterly review . Placement

1st–3rd $4,001–$5,000

4th–6th $2,501–$4,000

7th–8th $1,001–$2,500

9th–10th $1,000 or less

Retired Olympic or Pan American team members may apply for one-time only tuition assistance within five years of their last Olympic or Pan American Games competition .

• Retired athletes applying for these funds must be endorsed by their NGB . Grant amounts will consist of up to $2,000 for undergraduate study and up to $1,000 for graduate study . Tuition monies are restricted to tuition and mandatory fees only . Books, parking fees and room-and-board charges are not covered .

• Any grant money awarded but not disbursed by the end of the grant year (Dec . 31 for summer sports, June 30 for winter sports) is deemed forfeited .

Application

Athletes who meet the eligibility criteria may obtain applications from their NGB or USOC Sport Partnership

Team . Applications will be reviewed quarterly . Applications must be received by the USOC Sport Partnership

Team on or before the following deadlines: May 1, August 1 and November 1 .

Applicants will be notified no later than a month chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 59

USOC ATHLETE CAREER PROGRAM The general purpose of USOC athlete support programs is to provide financial support and health insurance to Olympic-caliber athletes, enabling the USA to maximize medals in the Olympic Games . These programs are offered to you based on each program’s criteria and include USSA elite team membership as a prerequisite . The programs offered by the USOC include: USOC Direct Athlete Support, Elite Athlete Health Insurance (EAHI), Team USA Career Program, Operation Gold, Olympic Training Centers (OTCs) and tuition assistance programs .

USOC DIRECT ATHLETE SUPPORT ELITE ATHLETE HEALTH INSURANCE

USOC Direct Athlete Support is a program The USOC EAHI program provides a level of base generally designed to do the following: support by offering a program of health and major medical insurance for designated elite • Offset living expenses so elite athletes can athletes in order to minimize the out-of-pocket train and compete expenses incurred by insured athletes for costs • Meet the demands of trying to make an of medical care . Olympic team and win medals USOC provides EAHI only to a select range • Recognize top performances at the highest of athletes. For detailed qualification criteria, international level eligibility and enrollment information see the • Recognize pursuit of athletic excellence insurance section located in this chapter or as a career contact your Team Manager .

Direct Athlete Support Qualification Criteria OPERATION GOLD

Athletes are selected to receive USOC Direct Operation Gold awards athletes for top- Athlete Support based on criteria generated place finishes in a sport’s most competitive from collaboration between the USOC and the international competition of the year . The award USSA . This criterion may change from time to amount varies from $2,000 to $25,000 depending time on an annual basis; however, the intent is to on the year, the athlete’s place and/or finish at have consistent criteria throughout the Olympic the Operation Gold competition and whether quadrennial. Once finalized, the criteria will be the athlete competes in a sport/discipline/event communicated to the appropriate athletes on the Olympic program. Team sports (defined selected to receive direct athlete support . as three or more athletes) receive funding for first through sixth-place finishes in non-Olympic Direct Athlete Support Grant Year years, while individual sports (defined as The funding cycle for winter sports is July 1– one or two athletes) receive funding for first June 30 . through eighth-place finishes in non-Olympic years . Final awards, in non-Olympic years, are Direct Athlete Support Disbursement of Funds adjusted based on the number of top countries Grants awarded to athletes by the USOC shall competing . Additionally, in non-Olympic years, be paid directly to athletes . athletes who qualify for more than one award automatically receive the higher award . At the Olympic Games, athletes will be paid Operation 60 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

Gold for multiple medal performances . or Team Manager who will fill out the proper paperwork . Operation Gold Winter Payment Schedule You are not allowed to train at a center on your Place Off Year Olympic Year own; a responsible coach must be with you . 1st $6,000 $25,000 Olympic Training Centers 2nd $5,000 $15,000 Chula Vista Olympic Training Center, Chula 3rd $4,000 $10,000 Vista, CA

4th $3,500 Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center, 5th $3000 Colorado Springs, CO

6th $3000 Lake Placid Olympic Training Center, Lake Placid, NY 7th $2,000 U .S . Olympic Education Center, North Michigan 8th $2,000 University, Marquette, MI OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTERS USOC TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS The OTCs facilitate sustained competitive USOC, as well as the USSA, has a variety of excellence by providing services and facilities in college tuition assistance programs . Detailed support of NGBs and their athlete development information is available in the Education and pipelines . The OTCs serve as national centers of Scholarship Programs section earlier in this inspiration providing opportunities to strive for chapter of the Team Manual . Olympic ideals through sport . The OTCs were started to help athletes develop into world-class USOC PROGRAM SUPPORTIVE INFORMATION athletes and win Olympic and Pan Am medals . School or College Eligibility

USSA Team athletes and their coaches are It’s important for athletes who have or eligible for OTC services . Requests for usage anticipate having school or college athletics of the OTCs must be submitted through the eligibility to understand that receipt of USOC USSA for athlete, coaching, officiating or grants may jeopardize that eligibility . Check administrative programs . Those athletes who with your school or college athletics personnel qualify for USOC/OTC funding may utilize an or the appropriate school or college governing OTC at no cost to the USSA or the athlete . association if you have questions . Those athletes or programs not eligible for Terms and Conditions funding may still access the OTCs with USSA recommendations, but the USSA or the athlete Athletes, who receive USOC support, including will be charged the current member daily rate EAHI, must comply with certain requirements for services . and standards including performance standards, commitment to training goals and You should not contact the OTCs directly, but doping-free sport participation . USOC also you must make a request through your coach requires athletes to sign an Athlete Support chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 61

Designee Form that includes certain terms and Tax Matters conditions . All athletes must be compliant with All USOC grant funds, with the exception of tuition the USADA in order to receive athlete support grants, will be reported to the IRS and generally or EAHI . are subject to federal and state income tax . If you fail to meet any of the terms and Since no taxes are withheld by the USOC, you conditions of the program, the grant may be may have a tax liability at the time you file your terminated and any unexpended funds must tax returns . If you anticipate such liability, you be returned to the USOC . Athlete terms and should consider setting aside some funds for this conditions will be reviewed periodically (but at a purpose . USOC does not provide tax advice minimum once a quad) by the Athletes Advisory and you are advised to retain your own tax Council, USOC staff and Board of Directors . professional to advise you about tax treatment of the receipt of USOC funding and benefits. If you have questions concerning the terms and conditions that are not answered by the USOC Documentation Sport Partnership Team, you may contact the The USOC reserves the right to request additional USOC athlete ombudsman at 1-888-ATHLETE . documentation (e .g ,. tax returns, proof of Contact citizenship, NOC release, etc) of any grantee .

Keith Bryant, Director, Communications Divisions United States Olympic Committee 719 .866 .2238 keith .bryant@usoc .org

Lindsey Van © Getty Images 62 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

INSURANCE

Insurance is a major area of focus for the USSA, Qualifications both as an organization and on your behalf as a To be covered under this policy, named national named national athlete . The USSA invests more team members must maintain their current USSA than $1 million each year for insurance and also competition membership . If you do not have a partners with the USOC and other agencies to current USSA membership (expires on June 30 provide the best possible coverage . annually) you may not be covered . The USSA maintains excess sport accident What is covered? insurance for all named national team athletes to help cover expenses for accidents over and Skiing or snowboarding accidents that occur above what the athlete’s primary insurance during USSA-supervised practice, training or will cover . Athletes must provide their own competition . Policy considers costs not covered primary insurance to cover for sport accidents . by all other available insurance policies and This requirement can be satisfied either by deductibles and co-pays apply . USOC’s EAHI program or coverage from a Deductible per policy year private insurance carrier . It is strongly suggested $500 per person per policy year . that policies cover accidents, illnesses, health conditions, chronic or repetitive use injuries and Co-pay per accident conditions . Athletes are responsible for reporting The first $6,250 of eligible expenses are payable outside medical services to USSA Medical or at 80% of the usual and customary charge . Team Physicians . Thereafter, benefits will be paid at 100 percent USSA INSURANCE PROGRAMS of the allowable payment until the total payments reach $25,000 . National A, B and C Team Members Insurance Maximum co-pay per accident All named national team members of Olympic skiing and snowboarding disciplines will be $1,250 (This is calculated on 80 percent of provided Secondary Sport Accident coverage, $6,250, which equals $5,000 of paid medical Excess Catastrophic Medical coverage and expenses) . Athletes are personally responsible Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage . for per-policy-year deductible and per-accident Secondary Sport Accident Insurance cards are co-pay . issued to named team members each year . Maximum benefit per covered accident This card should be carried along with EAHI or personal health insurance cards at all times . $25,000

Excess Participant Accident Policy Information Benefit period

Contact 24 months from date of accident .

Laurie Hamble, Insurance and HR Administration Exclusions/Limitations Manager • Pre-existing conditions Phone: 435 .647 .2019 • Illness Fax: 435 .940-2759 lhamble@ussa .org • Chronic/overuse injuries chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 63

• Treatment by non-licensed or non-certified Contact (USSA MCS referrals) providers American Specialty Insurance Services • Treatment by licensed or certified family Abby Allison members that would not normally charge for PO Box 459 their services Roanoke, IN 46783 800 .566 .7941 ext 243 • Non-prescription medication and Fax: 260 .673 .1189 supplements What if I do not use a preferred provider? • Acupuncture (benefit limit $25.00 per injury) If you use a provider that is not on the USSA • Chiropractic treatment (benefit limit $1,000 MCS list, call American Specialty and provide per injury) the name of the provider you are using . Any USSA MANAGED CARE SYSTEM (USSA MCS) provider with whom American Specialty The USSA has developed a managed care cannot negotiate a discounted rate, either system to provide the following services: through the USSA Managed Care System or a re-pricing agent, will be paid at 80 percent • Easy access to medical providers . Your USSA of the usual and customary charge of the participant accident insurance card is all provider’s location . The provider can bill you for you need to identify you as a member of the difference in the billed rate and the amount the system . paid by insurance . • Quality care providers . Medical providers CATASTROPHIC MEDICAL COVERAGE specializing in skiing and snowboarding- related injuries have been invited to USSA’s catastrophic medical coverage through participate in this plan . A list of the preferred Mutual of Omaha pays the excess of a $25,000 providers is available from the USSA . deductible per accident and excess of other valid and collectible insurance including your HOW TO UTILIZE THE USSA MCS own personal insurance or USOC’s EAHI . There • Select a medical provider from the USSA is a maximum benefit per person of $5 million. MCS Preferred Provider List . Benefits are considered under the contract until date of recovery . Contact Mutual of Omaha for • Provide your USSA Named national team details, 800 .524 2324. . Insurance Card to the provider . Filing a Claim • Have the medical provider submit all claims to American Specialty Insurance Services on If you, as a named national team member, a secondary basis . are involved in a covered accident, contact must be made with the coach, trainer or Team • American Specialty will notify you if you are Manager of your sport immediately . Claims responsible for any deductible or co-pays . must first be submitted to EAHI or your personal insurance . Any remaining balance can be submitted with the corresponding explanation of benefits to American Specialty and Mutual of Omaha (if applicable) . 64 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

Coaching staff and trainers have been provided Contact (claims assistance) the necessary claim forms . The coach or trainer American Specialty Insurance Services, Claims must also notify the USSA immediately via phone Department or email . The message must include: name of 142 North Main Street athlete, date of injury, injured body part and PO Box 459 location of injury . This will allow for immediate Roanoke, IN 46783 verification of medical services. The First Report of Injury form needs to be completed and Gina Hiner signed by the coach or trainer and faxed to the Toll Free: 800 .566 .7941 ext . 109 USSA as soon as possible . The athlete will also be Fax: 260 .673 .1189 furnished a Proof of Loss form that will need to ghiner@amerspec .com be completed before any insurance payments USSA Claim Filing Assistance can be made . This form must be completed in Laurie Hamble, Insurance and HR Administration full and returned to American Specialty as soon Manager as possible . Please be sure that all questions Phone: 435 .647 .2019 are answered and that the form is signed Fax: 435 .940 .2759 and dated, otherwise it will be returned and lhamble@ussa .org payment delayed . USOC ELITE ATHLETE HEALTH INSURANCE MEDICAL EVACUATION BENEFIT PROGRAM Medical evacuation means emergency The USOC offers EAHI to eligible athletes and transportation from an event or training site to their dependents with Highmark BlueCross a medical facility when standard transportation BlueShield (BCBS) as the insurance carrier . This is not adequate for the insured person who, plan provides select national team athletes as a result of life-threatening injury, requires with major medical and illness coverage . The immediate medical treatment . Medical plan has a $25,000 sport injury deductible . A evacuation must be coordinated through the sport injury is an onset that occurs during official USSA Medical staff and is coordinated through training or while competing at a USOC or USSA Global Rescue . sanctioned event . In the event of a serious injury, the USSA should This deductible must be met before any sport be notified immediately. injury claims are paid by Highmark BCBS . If Contact (USSA serious injury) you are injured during training or competition Luke Bodensteiner, Executive Vice sanctioned by the USOC or USSA, you must President, Athletics report your injury to the USSA immediately in Office: 435.647.2055 order for claims to be processed . Cell: 435 .640 .8541 USOC provides EAHI only to a select range Home: 435 .625 .0101 of athletes . Contact your Team Manager for more information . USOC will email or mail EAHI information directly to eligible athletes as directed by the USSA . Coverage will not be chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 65

effective until the first of the month following the network provider, athlete will continue to be date USOC receives the completed Enrollment responsible for the difference between the and W-9 Forms . Enrolled athletes will receive an plan’s allowable amount and the provider’s insurance card within two weeks after receipt actual charge . of forms . Out-of-Pocket Maximums General Description of Benefits In-network care: (Refer to your Highmark BCBS policy for specific $1,000/individual or $3,000/family coverage details) Out-of-network care: Deductible $3,000/individual or $9,000/family

In-network care: Athletes and their participating Expenses not included towards the out-of- dependents are not subject to a calendar pocket maximums are co-pays, office visits, year deductible . deductibles, mental health/substance abuse expenses, prescription drug expenses or Out-of network care: Athletes and their amounts over the allowable Highmark BCBS dependents are subject to a calendar year charge . deductible of $1,000 per individual, or $3,000 per family . Prescription Drugs

Co-insurance Co-payments are $7 for generic, $15 for brand formulary and $30 for brand non-formulary In-network care: Office visits are $15/visit plus 10 medications . Must use Premier Pharmacy percent co-insurance . There is a $250 co-pay Network – no coverage outside network . plus 10 percent co-insurance for inpatient or outpatient procedures. Identification of in- Life Insurance network providers can be obtained by calling A $10,000 life insurance benefit is provided 1 .800 .810 .BLUE (2583) . under this program for each covered athlete . Out-of network care: Following payment of Dental/Vision deductible, the plan will pay 70 percent of allowable amount . Athlete is responsible for 30 There is no dental or vision coverage as part percent co-insurance plus any amounts above of this plan but the USOC Sports Medicine the plan’s allowable amount . There is a $250 co- Department coordinates a volunteer dental pay plus 30 percent co-insurance for inpatient or network in some areas for free routine dental outpatient procedures . care and a free contact lens program . Contact the USOC’s Sports Medicine department for After out-of-pocket maximums have been details at 800 .638 1604. . met, and with the exception of calendar year maximums, the plan will pay at 100 percent Contact Lens Program for the remainder of the calendar year . Please The USOC Sports Medicine Department in note, when seeking services from an out-of- Colorado Springs currently runs a vision program 66 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

for all athletes eligible for EAHI . This program who sustain injuries during training and/or USOC- allows eligible athletes to receive up to a year sponsored/sanctioned competitions at an supply of Johnson & Johnson or Bausch and Olympic Training Center . Please contact Cory Lomb contacts free of charge . To participate Warner, National Medical Network Director, at in this program, athletes must complete the 719 .866 .2035 or cory .warner@usoc org. . following: Pre-authorization • Obtain a current prescription (within the Whenever inpatient hospital care including past six months) for a Johnson & Johnson or mental health or substance abuse care is Bausch and Lomb contact lens . needed, you must call to pre-certify this care • Fax, email, or mail the prescription to: to be certain it is covered . USOC Sports Medicine Department Contact Attn: Vision Program 1 Olympic Plaza Pre-authorization (inpatient hospital care, Colorado Springs, CO 80909 mental health, substance abuse, Durable Fax: (719)-632-9282 Medical Equipment, orthotics) sportsmedicinenetwork@usoc .org Highmark BlueCross BlueShield • Please include the athlete’s name, date of PO Box 1210 birth, sport and a mailing address where the Pittsburgh, PA 15230 contacts should be sent . 800 .909 .6120 Fax: 412 .544 .5247 Athletes can receive contacts once a year for as long as they remain eligible for EAHI . Please EAHI Administrator: contact 1 .800 .638 .1604 and reference vision Viola Cruz program or email sportsmedicinenetwork@usoc . 800-933-4473 org with any questions . eahi@usoc .org

USOC National Medical Network Filing a Claim

If you’re a Team USA athlete looking for Athletes should have in-network providers file accessible medical care at little or no cost, their claim directly through the local BlueCross the USOC’s National Medical Network (NMN) BlueShield (BCBS) plan . If using an out-of-network provides services ranging from orthopedic care provider, obtain an itemized bill, including name to neurosurgery . and address of the service provider, patient’s name, date of service, description of service, Created in 2012, the NMN provides medical amount charged and the diagnosis code . care to athletes through partnerships with Obtain and complete a claim form and mail top-tier medical providers across the country . both items to Highmark BCBS . Services are available to athletes who are enrolled in or eligible for the EAHI and athletes chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 67

Continuance Plan

The Continuance Plan will provide up to 12 months of continued medical coverage to elite athletes and their dependents that enrolled in EAHI and no longer qualify for the program . The athlete will be responsible for the monthly premium . Contact Viola Cruz, USOC Administrator, for details .

Tax Matters

Premiums paid by the USOC on behalf of athletes enrolled in EAHI are considered taxable by the IRS and are subject to reporting and taxation . Enrolled athletes will receive a 1099 at the end of January following the year EAHI has been utilized .

Sarah Hendrickson © Sarah Brunson/U.S. Ski Team 68 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

U .S . SKI TEAM OFFICIAL COMPETITION SUPPLIERS The U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing’s competition suppliers are critically important to its athletic programs, providing financial resources and access to high-level competition equipment and service .

Competition suppliers promote their products General Athlete Guidance through affiliation with the U.S. Ski Team, U.S. You should nurture your relationship with Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing . Many suppliers suppliers . It’s important to understand the also utilize these relationships as resources for supplier’s goals and expectations relating to research and development to improve their your relationship and to do everything you can products Suppliers gain promotional value by to fulfill those expectations. Don’t take your affiliating their brands with the team brands. The relationship for granted . Your future in the sport brand signifies a world-class sports organization. will depend upon your ability to develop and You provide additional promotional value by maintain these relationships . achieving success while utilizing their supplier products on the world stage . Communication is critical to establishing and maintaining effective relationships . You need to An enormous amount of resources and effort take responsibility for working through issues in a are utilized to build USSA brands and the athletic professional, businesslike manner . If equipment programs necessary to achieve success . The or contract issues arise, communicate USSA’s philosophy is that those who wish to effectively and document your interaction for benefit from affiliating with the brand and/or the future reference, either for yourself or if the issue athletes must contribute to this effort. Official escalates to become a legal matter . suppliers are required to pay fees based on product category and athlete rosters and may Anticipate all aspects of your relationship with additionally contribute value-in-kind product your suppliers when establishing the terms to and/or services to the USSA . The process is your contractual relationships . Suppliers will consistent within each product category . expect you to adhere to the terms of your Suppliers also may promote their name and agreements and their policies and procedures . logos with individual athletes . Athletes are You should understand those terms, policies and responsible for managing their own individual procedures before signing . contracts and billing with suppliers/sponsors they The Appendix of the Team Manual contains a list choose to work with . of suppliers .

Supplier contributions to athletic success Contact are critical . The USSA maintains policies and Meghan Leaver, Senior Account Executive procedures to maximize the benefit that 435 .647 .2043 suppliers receive . In order for these partnerships mleaver@ussa .org to continue to grow and support future athletic success as well as to ensure compliance with the rules of the FIS, IOC and USOC, you must follow these policies and procedures . chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 69

ATHLETE UNIFORMING AND UNIFORM RULES on headgear . This space is, in turn, is provided by the USSA to athletes to allow you to sell Uniforming plays a key role in athletic that commercial space. The specific rules performance and brand exposure . In an are detailed in section 2 .5 of the FIS rulebook: organization where the majority of funding for Specifications for Competition Equipment and athletic programs comes from sponsors, it’s a Commercial Markings . It is your responsibility to critical component of commercial exposure . ensure that your personal headgear sponsor is USSA Athletics and Sales and Marketing work properly placed on your headgear . Here are a closely together to ensure the best athletic few key points: performance while providing valuable sponsors with the exposure they need in return . • The national association logo (U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding or U S. . Freeskiing) must COMPETITION AND ELIGIBILITY RULES appear on the front and must be at least Uniforming falls under two areas of FIS rules 9 cm2 . – competition and eligibility . FIS competition • Rules apply to any headgear worn in rules address issues of safety and fairness in competition or competition area (prize-giving, competition . You should become familiar with media interviews, press conferences, etc ). . the specific FIS rules in your sport governing uniforming to avoid potential disqualification. • Advertisers must be approved in advance, must conform with FIS rules and not be FIS eligibility rules specifically address size in conflict with the USSA’s protected limitations and placement of commercial categories . marks . This includes every visible item from warm-up jackets to competition suits to gloves • The hat, cap or helmet must be from to turtlenecks and more . The USSA works with an official provider for your team. The suppliers to provide uniforming that is within FIS manufacturer’s marking must only be on the rules . If you modify clothing you may be subject side (not front or back) with each marking up to disqualification from competitions or face to 15 cm2 . other penalties . Additional, stricter rules on • The athlete’s commercial marking may only markings apply at the Olympic Winter Games . appear on the front and must always appear FIS competition and eligibility rules are available above or adjacent to (never below) the under your sport at www .ussa .org or at www . national team mark, as required by FIS rules, fisski.com, specifically in the FIS rulebook under with at least 1 cm separation . Specifications for Competition Equipment and • The commercial marking may be up to Commercial Markings . 50 cm2 in total . It may be split into two Athlete Headgear equal parts . The marking may not be for a ski or snowboard hardware or soft goods Sponsorship on headgear is an important company . revenue source for athletes and an exposure opportunity for the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . • In the case of headbands, the national Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing brands . FIS team mark may be to the side of the rules provide the USSA rights for advertising main headgear sponsor, but must still be 70 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

on the front . In no case can there be any equipment (uniform/suit, skis/board, boots, advertising on the chin-straps of helmets . poles, hat/helmet, goggles, ski straps) also is allowed . Athletes are allowed a maximum of Other Sponsors two ski straps per pair of skis and only hardware • Snowboards: The base bottom of (skis, ski boots, bindings, ski pole) and wax snowboards may only carry the recognized suppliers are permitted to have advertising on commercial markings of the effective ski straps . Other non-competition equipment producer . The top of the snowboards may (drink bottles, fanny packs, fluid packs, mobile carry the commercial markings of the phones, etc .) is not permitted . These ceremonies effective producer and up to five other are the proper place for the exposure of those 2 sponsors within a total size of 250 cm companies who are specifically supporting the • Aerials and ski jumping skis: The base bottom event and the actual competition equipment of skis may only carry the recognized of athletes .

commercial markings of the effective The industry also has requested that equipment producer . The top of the skis may carry be worn as it is intended . As examples, the the commercial markings of the effective industry has requested that boots be worn on producer and up to five other sponsors within the feet (not strapped across shoulder), and 2 a total size of 250 cm that proper headgear be worn, not carried or • No website addresses are permitted on placed on tips of skis or boards .

any advertising . PROVIDED UNIFORMING

For approval on commercial markings, it is The USSA will provide all national team athletes strongly recommended to send a copy of all with appropriate uniforming for athletic commercial marketing in their original size, form competition and training. The specific items will and color by October 1st or earlier for approval vary somewhat from team to team based on by your sport director . need and suppliers . At the time of uniforming • Not allowed in advertising with athletes: in the fall, each athlete will receive a specific listing of uniform items and their appropriate use . • Any kind of advertising with alcohol, tobacco and drugs Uniforming is provided to athletes from USSA supplier partners . It is provided for your athletic • The use of names, illustrations and titles of use . It is provided for both your athletic skiers for product names or product designs benefit and the exposure value to the partner • Any direct statement of active product financially supporting the team. presentation You may be asked to return it to the USSA at • Any religious or racial discrimination any time . You may not trade, sell or barter any uniforming item . You may not modify Equipment in Ceremonies any uniforming . FIS rules state that starting bibs are required Clothing is provided for very specific usage. You to be worn to provide exposure to the event will be advised of specific usage of each piece sponsors and organizers and actual competition at the time of uniforming . It is your responsibility to chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 71

use the proper uniforming for the proper situation . these cases, logos may be specifically placed This is important to the companies who have for those situations and must be worn . You may specifically invested in certain logo placement not, under any circumstance, cover up the on uniforms . It is your responsibility to have the commercial markings of USSA sponsors, with proper uniforming for the proper circumstances . the exception of USSA official requests (e.g. That includes ensuring that you have a proper competition bibs) . change of clothing in the finish area when Press conferences: Similarly, some uniforming appropriate . Here are some examples: pieces may be created to wear specifically Competition Suit: In many cases, competition in press conferences . If such uniforming is not suits are specific to a given event (in alpine: specified, you are required to wear clothing and slalom, giant slalom, downhill, etc .) . For headgear of your choice that properly displays example, wearing a GS suit in a slalom the U .S . Ski Team, U S. . Snowboarding or U S. . competition with shin guards covering a Freeskiing brand . sponsor’s logo on the knee is not permitted . All specifications also apply for officials, Finish area and podium: Some uniforming pieces coaches, technicians, support personnel may be specifically created to wear for finish and forerunners . area interviews and on the victory podium . In

Ted Ligety © Getty Images 72 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

ATHLETE LOGO AND PHOTOGRAPHY USAGE The USSA’s brand logos for the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing are extremely valuable . Like any major corporation or professional sports organization with a valuable trademarked brand, the USSA takes steps to manage the use of its marks . The use of these trademarks is monitored closely for both the nature and quality of usage . The USSA Creative Services department is responsible for development and management of the company’s graphic image, including the protection of the use of its marks and photography .

Any major corporation or professional sports Here are some basic guidelines: organization is very restrictive on use of its • Any usage must be approved in advance . logo . As an example, you would never see a You can initiate the approval through your professional sports team allow its logo to be Team Manager . used in non-standard colors, or used adjacent to a company that was not a commercial sponsor . • The team brand identity can only be used together with other commercial logos when The USSA has established value for its logos the team itself has a contractual relationship through years of marketing and protection of with that partner . those marks . No other Olympic sport in America has the kind of value in its mark that the U .S . Ski • Any usage must strictly follow the USSA’s Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing brand identity usage policy, including size, enjoys . The value of those marks is what attracts shape, color, etc . corporate sponsors and licensees to pay Logos and standards are available only in thousands of dollars each year to support your the media center, located at the bottom of athletic programs . every page on every USSA website .

ATHLETE LOGO USAGE • If you will be using the brand identity on The USSA also carefully determines how and a licensable product (clothing, etc .), you when its logos, or brand identity, are used, must use USSA’s licensee for that product whether that usage is for an internal printed category . For example, if you want to create piece or an advertisement by a sponsor or a a T-shirt with the team logo, you must use the supplier or a national team athlete . Everyone, team’s licensee, HUGE Sportswear . from a USSA staff person to the largest sponsor As a national team athlete, you have a big of the team, follows exactly the same stake in the value of the USSA’s marks . You have approval procedure . a responsibility to help protect the value of As a team member, there are instances where those marks that also impact your image . Part you are permitted to use the team’s brand of that protection is how you properly display identity . Examples may include your personal and utilize those marks . But a bigger part is website, a personal promotional kit, etc . But in how you personally convey a positive image each and every case, you must obtain approval for yourself, your sport and all the USSA sports in advance, just as any USSA staff person or by how you conduct yourself on and off the sponsor would do . competition venue . chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 73

Brand Identity Access Photography Access ussa .smugmug .com Look for further information at www .ussa .org in the media center . Contact

PHOTOGRAPHY USAGE Sarah Brunson, Photography Manager Office: 435.647.2012 The USSA manages photography, ranging SBrunson@ussa .org from headshots of athletes to action shots from major events . The USSA maintains relationships VIDEO USAGE with a variety of photographers and agencies The USSA oversees production of content including the world’s largest photography development including: TV shows, webcasts, agency, Getty Images . competition news releases and athlete lifestyle Athletes and partners can access photography pieces . The USSA manages relationships with at the link listed in this section . Athletes are production that provide footage through rights free to use photography from those sites for agreements . The USSA also produces a limited their own non-commercial use . This includes amount of non-competition video in-house personal websites, personal presentation kits, as well . etc . Commercial or editorial use must be There is a complex set of domestic and cleared in advance through the USSA Content international rights agreements that are fulfilled and Creative Services department . Additional as part of the USSA’s content development . photography is available through Getty Images Within the boundaries of these rights/license and the USSA’s pool of freelance photographers, agreements, there is a capability for athletes with fees to be determined by usage . to access select video to be used solely for The USSA has a limited budget for photography, personal promotion on their name-sake websites working with individual photographers and or appropriate sponsor presentations . agencies to obtain access and preferred rates . Video content development is a key resource But it is not possible to always have the latest of the USSA to provide images that tell the story images of more than 150 national team athletes . of what it takes to succeed and associated The USSA greatly welcomes any images athletes, athletic excellence . Athlete participation in this coaches, friends or parents can provide for use process makes the process more relevant and in USSA publications, on the web and shared authentic to the growth of the sports . with media . Similarly, if your sponsors or suppliers have current action or lifestyle photography that Contact can be shared with the USSA, it helps to keep Kyle Kilcomons, Director of Creative Services USSA’s archives more current . Office: 435.647.2087 This is especially important when you change KKilcomons@ussa org. competition equipment or headgear sponsors . If you and your sponsors want to have updated photography used by the USSA, it is important to provide it to the USSA . 74 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

ATHLETE SUPPORT OF USSA REVENUE-PRODUCING PROGRAMS The USSA raises money for athletic programs through its corporate sponsorship programs, private fundraising and major events . The success of these programs, and the direct impact on athletic funding, is tied to the active and positive participation of athletes into those organizational activities .

The USSA’s athletes and teams compete when representing the USSA . on a global playing field against teams that • Stay away from personal endorsement deals are supported directly or indirectly through that conflict with major USSA sponsors. their respective governments and often in marketplaces where skiing and snowboarding • Proudly represent the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . are dominant sports . Unlike most nations the Snowboarding and U S. . Freeskiing brands . USSA does not receive any federal funding for its • Cooperate and have a positive attitude athletic programs . The USA is a geographically when involved with USSA TV and other huge country with a diverse population and media projects . an extremely advanced professional sports • Be available and positive about USSA marketplace . It’s a challenging environment to sponsor appearances and events . fundraise for any Olympic sport . • Be familiar and positive about USSA sponsors, Despite those challenges, the USSA has suppliers and licensees . continued to expand its athletic funding dramatically over the past decade and has TEAM FUNDRAISING EVENTS shown that it can be competitive against the The USSA Foundation’s fundraising events best in the world through careful planning and are a major contributor to athletic program maximization of funds . funding . They are enjoyable social events that The following sections address what’s expected give donating guests an opportunity to meet of athletes when included in the USSA’s world-class athletes and to learn more about revenue-producing programs . how they can support the team . The success of these events is dependent on your participation . SPONSORS AND OTHER PARTNERS Athletes bring excitement and authenticity to The USSA’s corporate partners including the events and are the reason guests attend sponsors, licensees and suppliers are critically and support these fundraisers . important to the organization’s success and The Foundation staff makes every effort possible your success as a team athlete . Those partners to make attendance at a fundraising event bring incredible value to the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . memorable for both the athlete and the donor . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing brands . It is also a working activity where athletes and The value of the USSA’s Team brands is directly staff are responsible for entertaining, educating impacted by how you manage yourself as and engaging guests . Once committed to an a Team athlete . As the value of that brand appearance on behalf of the team, you are increases, so does the value back to you – both expected to: in athletic funding and increased commercial opportunities .

• Always wear appropriate team uniforms chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 75

• Read and follow the detailed itinerary Respect provided, with special attention to meeting Respectful interaction between USSA times and places . representatives and event organizers is critical at • Attend an athlete briefing to prepare for all domestic and international events . Respect the event . should be shown toward all event partners including broadcasters, media, sponsors, • Meet and mingle with guests and represent officials, volunteers, fans, etc. Being a premier the team professionally . winter sport, USSA athletes and staff are regularly • Adhere to the expectations outlined in in the spotlight and need to be cognoscente the national team policies with regard to that on and off the field of play they are consumption of alcohol, uniforming, etc . representing the USSA and their country . Should • Participate in any associated media issues arise at an event, it is best to resolve these appearances . through communication with USSA leadership rather than with the organizer directly . This USSA MAJOR EVENTS communication should be channeled through The success of USSA’s domestic elite events is your coach, program director or USSA Events dependent on the support and balance of all staff . USSA Events encourages your feedback to aspects of the organization including athletic, help improve USSA’s events and the venues on operational and financial divisions. Your support which you compete . of the following will help ensure the success of Communication USSA events: USSA Events require unique involvement of team Participation athletes . It is particularly important for you to As a member of U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding participate in daily team meetings with your or U .S . Freeskiing, your participation in these coach and program director during these events events is critical . Sponsor, donor and site funding to receive information and provide feedback . is committed with the expectation that each qualified U.S. athlete will participate. Therefore, it is your responsibility to participate in elite-level USSA events hosted in the USA for which you qualify, provided that exceptions for medical restrictions or other unique circumstances can be made with the prior approval of the respective sport director and EVP, Athletics . Your involvement in the competitions as well as in limited sponsor or promotional functions ensures the stability of our events . 76 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

MEDIA AND PUBLIC APPEARANCES

PUBLIC APPEARANCES AND MEDIA phone interviews, press conferences and more . MANAGEMENT While during the competitive season these may seem like distractions, it is important to plan on Telling the story of our sports, our organization, making the investment and helping to provide our team and our athletes is everyone’s information about yourself in a focused venue responsibility . Sport today is entertainment that has an attentive audience . Media play and the success of any sport is directly related an important role in sport . Learning to work to how the participants – the organizers, the with them to your advantage is key . Your sport coaches, the athletes – take a proactive role will only grow if you positively interact with the in telling that story . Public excitement is built public and the media . not just on the story of athletic success, but on getting behind the scenes and seeing a sport The USSA’s approach to a positive and from the perspective of the athlete . proactive integration with media is outlined below . In every case, this will be done Every athlete and every coach plays a key strategically to enhance positive awareness role in building that public excitement . That of the athlete and the team . Special excitement is built on the public’s desire to get circumstances will be taken into consideration inside the sport as much as possible . Listening in where a public appearance may not be in the on radio calls, seeing on-course point-of-view best strategic interest of the athlete or team . action, being in the start house and finish line, hearing from athletes before, during and after Media Prioritization a competition are all critical elements of telling Prioritization of media is important to maximizing the story of our sport . The public has to be inside an athlete’s time and benefit to the athlete and the sport in any way possible! team. In general, the most beneficial media are The news media, television, web and other U .S .-based – that’s where the USSA has the most channels are critical to the success of our sports . potential to grow awareness to increase athletic Those channels provide an opportunity for every funding . International media also are important athlete and coach to help tell the story of our in being a good partner in a global sport . Below sport and to bring that excitement to the public . is a general prioritization, with U .S -based. and larger circulation/distribution being key: ATHLETES AND NEWS MEDIA • Wire services like the Associated Press The USSA is the most proactive of any U S. . (world’s largest news service; best way to Olympic sport in its use of the media as a tool to reach majority of U .S . media) create awareness and a positive public image of its athletes, events and sports . The USSA • U .S . TV conducts active public relations programs to • Rights holder TV tell your story, the team story, the story of the people behind the scenes and to help record • Major U .S . media, especially those that the history of competitive winter sports . regularly follow your sport (Ski Racing, USA Today, New York Times, Denver Post, etc .) There are a variety of tactics to do this including chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 77

• Major web media (yahoo .com, ESPN .com, showcase the sport to the public . USAToday .com, etc ). USSA Communications works closely with • Hometown media Athletics to integrate the need for media interaction within the athletic schedule at • U .S . national radio events . Team members are expected to actively • U .S . lifestyle media (print, broadcast, web) participate in scheduled interviews .

• U .S . newspapers and other media Press Conferences

• Other online sites (blogs, etc ). At times, the USSA will schedule press Media Interviews (Outside of Competition) conferences . These may be traditional with athletes sitting in front of media answering With various immediate deadlines and long questions or can be conducted in more leads for both newspapers and magazines, the personal formats such as athlete stations where USSA will arrange media interviews with national media can speak directly and personally with team athletes throughout the year . The USSA athletes . Press conferences are a good way strives to work in partnership with athletes and to economize time, especially at events and their professional representatives to create camps . The USSA will take athletes’ schedules media opportunities that are beneficial for into consideration and work with the coaching the athlete and the team . Those opportunities staff on timing of these media appearances . It is should take into account the athletes’ schedules the responsibility of team athletes to attend and and athletic commitments and be properly participate in a positive manner when asked, prioritized so as to create a positive experience . including both USSA-scheduled and pre-event/ It is everyone’s responsibility (athletes, agents, post-event press conferences . In all cases, the sponsors, USSA) to work productively with each USSA will moderate or have a presence at these other to mutually seek opportunities to benefit press conferences and work with athletes in both the athlete and the team . advance on key message points .

Media Interviews (Team Camps and Finish Area Mixed Zone Competitions) Post-event interview opportunities in any sport At any team camp or competition, athletic are challenging for both athletes and media, preparation, training and competition comes but it is an essential way for media to get athlete first. Camps and competitions also represent reaction – win or otherwise – after a competition opportunities to showcase the sport and as fans are interested in the experience and athletes . It’s important for the long-term growth relating to it . of the sport to recognize that active interaction Skiing and snowboarding are sports that need with the public and news media is essential to make media feel welcome . Coverage, for growth in public awareness . The growth especially from U S. . media, is challenging in in public popularity of any major sport today, your sport . If journalists have spent the time from traditional American professional sports and money to cover a ski or snowboarding to NASCAR and more, are all due in part to event, you, as a national team athlete, should active interaction during competition to better reciprocate that respect and interest by taking 78 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

the time to talk about your experience .

It’s easy to talk about winning . It’s harder to talk about losing or when things go awry . But the athlete who can keep his or her chin up and speak from the heart about a great disappointment will be the athlete who will garner the lion’s share of positive coverage every time!

Devin Logan © Getty Images chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 79

MEDIA TRAINING 101 – KNOW THE BASICS Make it pleasant for all involved . The media will be conveying your message to the public, and Media relations is one of the most important it’s beneficial to you if your message is delivered aspects in the life of an elite athlete . It is to your from a friendly perspective . benefit to work proactively with the media so that you help inform and guide the media as Be on time . they tell your story and help shape your image . Reporters have deadlines (and bosses!) that When used effectively, the media can be an require them to adhere to a schedule . extremely valuable tool . You should view media coverage as an opportunity to promote your The story . sport, your team, your sponsors and – of course – The media are interested in the inside story . Give yourself . It’s free advertising – capitalize! them insight as to who you are (tell your story!) To take full advantage of your access to the but be extremely cautious before you criticize sports media, you have to exercise your power teammates, coaches, officials, opponents, to control and manage your media interactions teammates, family, etc . Always give credit while working with USSA Communications staff where credit is due, but be careful not to to maximize every opportunity . overstep the bounds of privacy and disclose private information about others . Three keys to controlling your interview: The media will always have the last word . 1 . Have a clear, simple, consistent message Do everything you can to ensure that they that is interesting to the public . view you favorably . 2 . Package your message into media-friendly COMMUNICATIONS TRAINING sound bytes . The USSA works with several outside vendors to 3 . Get comfortable presenting your develop a communications training program message confidently. that focuses on developing messages, how COMMON COURTESIES COUNT an image is built, working with the media and tips on public speaking . Each year, the USSA As a member of the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . will continue to implement such education Snowboarding or U .S . Freeskiing, you represent programs with the teams . the United States, the Olympic movement, team partners (venues, organizers, sponsors, suppliers, The USSA has worked with national public donors, etc .), your sport, your sponsors and relations agency Fleishman-Hillard . Counselors yourself every time you interact with the media . Dan Barber and J .J . Carter can offer additional advanced services including: Always be professional and courteous . • Individual and team coaching sessions for Try to remember names, greet media members athletes and coaches personally when possible and be friendly . Remember, the media are doing their job and • Message development consultation for you are an important part of their work day . individual athletes and teams 80 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

• On-camera media consultation to improve Be honest and accurate . presentation and delivery Make sure you are always honest and accurate • Crisis and issues consultation to help manage when posting information or news, and if you conflict and controversy make a mistake, correct it quickly . Be open about any previous posts you have altered . • Media monitoring and analysis Remember that the internet archives almost If athletes and/or agents are interested in everything and even deleted information can investing in a more expanded program, sometimes be found . Never post any information they may contact USSA Vice President of or rumors that you know to be false about Communications Tom Kelly (tkelly@ussa .org or the USSA, fellow athletes, coaches, officials or 435 .647 .2010) to discuss options available and competitors . how best to coordinate them . FIVE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES 1 . How can I update my team bio? Social media can be a fun and rewarding way Make it a point to review your team bio to share your life and athletic accomplishments at the beginning of each season and with fans, friends and family all over the world . periodically throughout the year . It is Because social media can communicate designed to provide the media and fans information very quickly, it’s wise to use interesting and informative background social media responsibly . Your conduct on information on you, so we welcome social media can impact your sponsorships, your input on what you would like us to relationships and reputation . Here are a few include . Please contact Communications simple things to keep in mind when posting on (communications@ussa .org) with any social media sites . changes .

Be respectful . 2 . At times, why do writers ask such dumb Always be fair and courteous to fellow athletes, questions? coaches, officials, event staff and others Many journalists are new to our sport and who are working on behalf of the USSA or FIS . haven’t yet mastered it . Consider each such Problems are generally easier to resolve by interview an opportunity to reach a whole speaking directly to a person rather than airing new audience . While your sport is global, grievances in a public forum such as Facebook ball sports tend to dominate the American or Twitter . Nevertheless, if you decide to post sports media . They may not always know complaints or criticism, avoid using statements, what to ask or use the correct terminology . photographs or video or audio that could You can help them immensely by taking the reasonably be viewed as malicious, obscene, time to explain the basics of your sport in threatening or intimidating . Examples of such detail so they can better understand it . With conduct might include offensive posts meant to your assistance (and patience), journalists intentionally harm someone’s reputation . who are new to the sport can help expand your fanbase beyond the knowledgeable ski or snowboard fan . chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 81

Julia Mancuso © Getty Images

3 . I didn’t do so well today . Why do I have to them), and that they can contact the spend time after the event with media? USSA if they need assistance or any It is easy to talk to media when you win; it’s additional information . tougher when you don’t . One of the keys to 5 . I want to start getting more coverage getting good media coverage for you and for myself . your sport is consistency . If the media have The USSA’s Communications department insight about you, what you do, how your is here to help . Let them know what run was, they can tell a better story . Plus, you’re interested in, and they will help don’t let them presume – explain . you maximize your media exposure . If you 4 . What can I do to get more coverage in my would like to take the initiative to generate local newspaper? more news coverage for yourself, make Make it a point to know and regularly that known! We can provide you with some communicate with your local media . The specific direction, social media guidance USSA regularly distributes news via email to and best practices, thoughts on developing media – international, national and local informational materials and keep you in – and talks to reporters daily . Let your local mind for future media opportunities . reporters and editors know that you are accessible to them (and eager to work with 82 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

ATHLETE MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS

National team athletes are entitled to a number FIS Registration of outstanding benefits, including the ability Every sport has a procedure for registration to participate in USSA and FIS competitions . with FIS . FIS also requires members to hold a However, just as a valid driver’s license is current membership in their home national required to operate a motor vehicle, you association (USSA) . Each sport has a separate must renew and maintain your USSA and FIS schedule of fees and deadlines . Alpine athletes memberships to enjoy these benefits: need to register by June 1 to meet the early FIS • Opportunity to compete in domestic and list deadline . Registration after any deadline international events may involve additional late fees . If your FIS registration is not current, you risk your ability • Accident insurance coverage during to participate in FIS events and losing your FIS participation in sanctioned events points . In addition, you must hold a current USSA • Ranking on the USSA points list competitor membership to register for FIS .

• Ranking on international points lists The most efficient way to register for both USSA Both the USSA as an organization and you and FIS is using the USSA’s online registration tool as an individual athlete may be at risk if available at my .ussa .org . Please contact USSA your membership and registrations are not Member Services at membership@ussa org. or completed in a timely manner . You may 435 .647 .2666 for assistance . In addition USSA and risk your insurance coverage, participation FIS applications are available online at www . in sanctioned events and your domestic or ussa .org . Click here to access forms . international ranking . Contact

REQUIRED MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION USSA Member Services USSA Membership 435 .647 .2666 membership@ussa org. You are required to hold a current USSA competition membership . The USSA’s membership year begins on July 1 . If your membership is not current on July 1, you risk being able to participate in USSA activities including camps and competitions; and will not be covered by USSA’s secondary participant accident insurance . You also risk losing your points . Although national team athletes should be renewed by July 1, any athletes not registered by October 15 will pay a $25 USSA late fee . Other division or state late fees may also apply . chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 83

ATHLETE CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION One of the most important areas of management for you as a national team athlete is protecting your eligibility . Skiing and snowboarding are among the most open sports in terms of allowing athletes to be compensated for endorsements . But there are still rules that must be followed in order to maintain your eligibility to compete in USSA, FIS or Olympic competitions . While the USSA does not manage National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) activities, those rules are even more restrictive . It is your responsibility to know and understand these rules .

ENDORSEMENT AGREEMENT RULES AND responsibility to seek advice from your agent, PROCEDURES accountant and/or attorney to ensure that your rights are protected . The USSA can provide Athletes may enter into endorsement names of individuals who can help you in this agreements for headgear, equipment, regard if you need a referral . Please contact the appearances and other purposes subject to USSA Athletics Manager (Nancye Rahn) USSA and FIS rules and policies . For the most for assistance . current information on permitted categories and procedures please refer to your Team In order to comply with FIS rules, the USSA Membership Agreement . requires that athlete and sponsor execute USSA’s Athlete Endorsement Consent and The FIS has established rules governing contract Joinder agreement, which serves to protect administration . In turn, the USSA provides to athlete eligibility and becomes part of the its elite team members a system for contract endorsement agreement . The Consent and administration that complies with FIS rules in an Joinder document cannot be altered in any effort to ensure that you maintain competition way other than to add the detailed references eligibility . FIS rules governing endorsements and from the endorsement agreement (e .g ,. name athlete eligibility are available at: of parties, date, signatures, etc ). . www.fis-ski.com USSA CONTRACT MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES Particular attention should be paid to Sections The USSA manages hundreds of agreements, as 204 and 206, which require, among other required by FIS rules, every year . It’s important things, that the USSA be a party to any athlete that you take the responsibility of following the endorsement . FIS rules dictate that any athlete established procedure to ensure your contracts who refuses to comply with these rules will not are processed properly and your eligibility is be issued a FIS license . not impacted . LICENSE BY THE USSA • Each athlete endorsement agreement The endorsement agreement sets forth in detail together with the Consent and Joinder, the legal relationship between the athlete when fully executed, should be forwarded to and sponsor and is negotiated between the the USSA Athletics Manager for processing . two parties . The USSA does not negotiate • Upon receipt, the USSA will sign the endorsement agreements for athletes . It is your 84 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

Consent and Joinder, and distribute to the earmarked for a single individual does not appropriate party . Athlete endorsement qualify for a charitable deduction . An athlete is agreements that are submitted without fully not a charitable organization . executed Consent and Joinders will not The USSA cannot provide a charitable be processed . deduction acknowledgment to such a donor Your Contract Management Responsibility as the organization would risk tax penalty and possible forfeiture of its not-for-profit tax status. It is ultimately your responsibility to manage the relationship with your sponsors or suppliers . It is possible that some gifts may not be taxable income to the athlete . But athletes should NCAA amateur rule and eligibility: As a national consult with a professional tax advisor for team athlete, you need to be aware of the specific direction. NCAA bylaw that relates to amateurism and how it may affect your eligibility to compete at Contact the college level . NCAA amateur status may Jody Nicol, USSA Accounting be lost as a result of activities prior to enrollment 435 .647 .2009 in college . It is your responsibility to contact the jnicol@ussa .org compliance office at the university or college you are interested in attending to determine your eligibility status . NCAA amateurism rules apply to current student-athletes attending college and any individual who has not yet enrolled . Your eligibility can be affected by several factors including receiving excessive or improper expenses, awards and benefits, entering into an agreement with a sport agent, turning 21 years of age, or enrolling full-time at a college or university . It is imperative that you are aware of your actions and how they may impact your eligibility for intercollegiate competition .

For more information: http://eligibilitycenter .org/ ECWR2/NCAA_EMS/NCAA .html

CHARITABLE DONATIONS AND GIFTS

Individuals often ask if they can make a donation specifically earmarked for the benefit of an individual athlete. IRS regulations specifically indicate that any donation

Emily Cook © Kirk Paulsen chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 85

ON THE ROAD USSA teams are required to travel around the world in order to experience the best training and competition opportunities . Much of the day-to-day business of the organization takes place outside of Park City. Travel is a major component of USSA operations and accounts for a significant portion of its annual budget . It is vitally important that the USSA is diligent in planning and executing its travel .

TRAVEL PARTNERSHIPS • 24/7 service support

The USSA has established a partnership with • Assistance in making ticket changes for WorldTek Travel in order to centralize travel personal, event, USSA or other reasons activities and establish consistent, effective • Exclusive access to USSA-contracted and efficient procedures. WorldTek is a major discounts with Delta national agency specializing in sport team and group travel programs . Team Travel Arrangements

The USSA also has established a sponsor Team Managers and coaches are responsible partnership with Delta Airlines, which helps for preparing general travel plans that are then mitigate the cost of travel through value-in- communicated to team athletes, coaches and kind ticketing and other benefits. It is important support staff . All airline travel arrangements for USSA staff and athletes to respect Delta must be made well in advance of departure personnel worldwide and to be gracious in your and must be coordinated through the Team travel relationships . Your respectful treatment of Manager or coach . Check with your Team Delta helps maintain a great relationship and Manager or coach for specific procedures in the continuation of the benefits that come with your sport . that relationship . After you’ve communicated your specific travel USSA TRAVEL PROCEDURES needs based on the established travel plans, the Team Manager or coach will coordinate The following information applies across all with WorldTek to research and book the most sports; however, each individual team may effective travel arrangements . have more specific procedures that vary slightly from the general process outlined When you’ve been ticketed for a trip, double- below . You are expected to follow your team’s check your flight itinerary as soon as you get it to travel procedures . make sure it is correct . Let your coach or Team Manager know immediately if your ticket is in WorldTek Travel Benefits error . Always call the airline prior to departure WorldTek Travel provides the following: to reconfirm your flight times in case there has been a flight or schedule change. If you have • Full-time staff experienced at dealing with any questions regarding travel, contact your the complexities of U .S . Ski Team, coach or Team Manager . U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing travel Electronic tickets are used whenever possible schedules as they are the safest and easiest to manage . • Attention to finding the most effective ticket If you don’t receive a copy of your electronic routing for the most reasonable cost ticket itinerary within four working days prior to 86 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

travel, please contact your Team Manager . All Check with the airline, as there are always tickets are non-refundable to you . All unused exceptions . tickets need to be reported to Team Managers Contact or WorldTek prior to your scheduled departure or you could be responsible for the cost of the WorldTek Travel ticket . Your ticket needs to be canceled prior 1 .800 .TEAM .SKI to the original scheduled departure date or the Additional resources: value of your ticket will be lost completely . International Association of Medical Assistance For domestic travel, you need to check in at to Travelers 716 .754 4883. least one to two hours before flight departure. The Centers for Disease Control 404 .332 .4565 If traveling internationally you need to arrive at least two to three hours before departure . National Passport Information Center Take into consideration additional baggage, 888 .362 .8668 number of people checking in and any current Office of American Citizens Services security alerts . 202 .647 .5225 Excess, Oversized and Overweight Baggage Universal Currency Converter All airlines charge for baggage that is over the http://www .xe .com/ucc/ limited number, overweight or oversized . Size Time and date com. and weight limitations, as well as fees, are set by http://www .timeanddate .com/ each airline and may vary . Baggage restrictions often change suddenly due to security or Country Calling Codes business concerns . You are encouraged to http://www .countrycallingcodes com/. call or check the website of the airline you are traveling . For current policies regarding excess baggage, contact your Team Manager .

Ticket Changes

The USSA manages travel for hundreds of athletes . Changes cost money and staff time, which impacts athletic funding . You will not be allowed to make individual itinerary changes for personal reasons unless you have them approved in advance by the Team Manager . You are responsible for payment of all fees . Generally a ticket change requires a minimum fee of $100 for domestic travel and $200 for international travel plus any additional costs due to change of routing, dates and/or class or service . Most airlines are now only allowing standby for flights on the original travel date. chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 87

VEHICLE PROCEDURES Generally, USSA staff manages the use of USSA vehicles or car rentals . It is important for each athlete to acknowledge and abide by the policies and procedures outlined below in conducting those activities in order to maintain a safe environment and safeguard the assets of the USSA .

The procedures in this section apply to the use of whatsoever; the vehicle shall be driven in any USSA-owned, -leased or -rented vehicle . a safe and prudent manner by licensed drivers, 21 years of age or older; the AUTHORIZED USE OF USSA VEHICLES drivers will comply with the Driver Conduct Athletes are not permitted to drive USSA Audis Requirements set forth below; the assigned unless specifically authorized by Audi. Team, driver will be responsible for all fines, staff and athletes must be over the age of 21 forfeitures and penalties incurred by reason to drive USSA vehicles, which may be used of the use of the vehicle . for official USSA business only. All drivers must • Drivers should obtain warranty service as submit a copy of their valid driver’s license and necessary and provided for under the new complete a MVR Request and Authorization to vehicle limited warranty, a printed copy of Release Motor Vehicle Report form with USSA’s which is furnished with the vehicle . Ordinary Shauna Vanderlinden and complete vehicle operating maintenance such as gas, oil, check out paperwork with Lenea McManus . If grease, tire repair and other incidentals your name isn’t on the check out form you are are the responsibility of the assigned driver not authorized to drive the vehicle . as necessary . Coordinate any repairs or Contact maintenance with Lenea McManus at Shauna Vanderlinden, Director of 435 .647 .2008 .

Human Resources • The assigned driver is responsible for 435 .647 .2003 returning the vehicle in the same condition svanderlinden@ussa .org as delivered, with reasonable wear and Lenea McManus, Accounting Accounts tear accepted . All repairs necessary to Payable Manager restore the vehicle to such condition shall be 435 .647 .2008 performed at the expense of the assigned lmcmanus@ussa .org driver . The vehicle should also be returned clean, inside and out with a full tank of gas . Vehicle Care and Maintenance in USA All accidents involving serious Injuries please USSA vehicles are a great expense to the refer to the critical Incident communication company . They should be used in the proper procedure . Call Luke Bodensteiner at mobile manner and with respect for the investment 435.640.8541; home 435.625.0101 or office the USSA makes in providing access to 435 .647 .2055 or In his absence, Kyle Wilkens, transportation . mobile 435.901.1941; office 435.647.2058; home • USSA vehicles will not be utilized illegally, 435 .649 .9499 or Tom Kelly, mobile 435 .602 .9799; improperly, for hire, as a public conveyance office : 435.647.2010. For accidents involving or in any manner for any political purpose damage to USSA vehicles and/or when USSA 88 chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities

auto insurance coverage is involved contact • Use of the vehicle by other parties, including Shauna Vanderlinden . family members is prohibited .

Driver Conduct Requirements When renting vehicles for USSA business make sure you are familiar with USSA’s Rental Auto • The driver must possess a valid Insurance policies . If you aren’t sure if USSA operator’s license . has insurance coverage for the type of rental • The driver must be over the age of 21 . or the country you are renting a vehicle; and • Absolutely no driving while impaired by are unable to reach your Team Manager or alcohol, drugs, medication, illness, fatigue USSA to discuss, purchase the rental companies or injury . coverage and name USSA along with all drivers on the rental agreement . In General, USSA does • Ensure the proper use of safety belts and not have Auto Insurance in foreign Countries . If child safety restraints for all occupants . you have a personal credit card that has rental • Obey all applicable motor vehicle laws, auto insurance that applies you can choose to codes and regulations . opt out of purchasing the rental car companies coverage but if there is an damage etc to the • Drive in a defensive manner, anticipating vehicle it would be your responsibility to submit situations where incidents are likely to occur . the claim with your credit card company . • Refrain, at all times, from using radar/laser Do not rent 10-15 passenger vehicles . detection devices .

• Plan trips by selecting the safest route, depart early enough to observe posted speed and traffic regulations and be mindful of current and forecasted weather conditions .

• Use of cellular telephones while driving USSA vehicles is not permitted . chapter 5 athlete services and responsibilities 89

SKI AND SNOWBOARDING AREA ACCESS FOR ATHLETES

U .S . ski and snowboard resort areas are the contacts below can change year to year . USSA’s most important partners . Those resorts Check with the Athletics Manager or your Team provide millions of dollars in tangible, direct Manager each season . athletic support each year with programs like Athletes and Coaches the Gold Pass, hosting more than 3,000 local competitions annually, providing support for 425 Vail- Vouchers have been issued . Go to any USSA clubs and investing heavily in the USSA’s season pass office for a Vail resort, except major events . Every athlete should have the Arapahoe Basin and Northstar (they can be utmost respect for resort operators . used at those two resorts, just not picked up there) . Tell them you are with the U .S . Team and In addition to hosting domestic and elite-level show ID . USSA events each year, many resorts provide national team athletes with lift access at no Deer Valley- Go to the ticket desk at Snow Park cost . They do so because of the image that you, Lodge area to pick up . Athletes under 18 need as a team athlete, can bring to their resort and a waiver signed by parents . Team Managers the relationships that you and the USSA have have the form . established over the years . Park City- Local athletes can pick up a season The resorts listed below typically provide elite pass in the pass office. Non-local athletes can athletes with lift access at no cost . There are pick up a day pass in the pass office. If you are no formal agreements that provide this benefit. a non-local who will be here for more than a USSA Athletics confirms these arrangements few days please let Nancye Rahn know your with each resort prior to the season opening . dates via email (nrahn@ussa .org) so something Generally, resorts welcome the opportunity can be set up for you . to provide this benefit and will continue to do Squaw Valley- Day passes are available . so provided that athletes are gracious and Contact Todd Kelly 48 hours in advance so he respectful in dealing with resort staff . can set up a pass for you .

Athletes seeking lift access for resorts not Todd Kelly listed below should either utilize their personal Alpine Meadows Ski Team relationships at the resort or contact the Squaw Valley Ski Team Athletics Coordinator for help in contacting the Program Director appropriate person at the resort on your behalf . tk@squaw .com Generally, a picture ID (driver’s license) and Office: 530.452.4182 team ID is required in order to obtain lift access Cell: 530 .563 .6222 from these resorts . Procedures with each of Mt . Bachelor- Day passes available . Please these resorts may change from year to year contact Nancye Rahn one week in advance at so please make contact with the resort or the nrahn@ussa .org or 435 .647 .2016 so that she can USSA prior to arriving . The procedures or resort contact Mt . Bachelor . 90 chapter 15 introductionathlete services to the and team responsibilities manual

Athletes Only Snowbird- We generally receive 25 to 50 day passes for athlete use during the season. It is first Steamboat- Athletes on the A-C teams can pick come, first serve with a limit of two per athlete up day passes at the main ticket office. (over two visits) . Take your ID to the ticket Killington- Check with your Team Manager on window . There are black-out dates around who our contact person will be . You will need holidays . to contact them 48 hours in advance . You will need to bring a photo ID to the season pass office once you have notified them.

© Getty Images chapter ussa department6 structure Sage Kotsenburg © Getty Images chapter 6 ussa department structure 92

USSA ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

USSA ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

The USSA serves as the NGB recognized by the manages the legal health of the organization USOC and FIS for skiing and snowboarding in the and provides guidance to the president and USA . The USSA is incorporated under the laws of CEO, the management team, and others the State of Utah as a not-for-profit corporation within the organization upon request . He is the and is organized so as to qualify as a non-profit, organization’s point person for issues involving charitable, tax-exempt organization under SafeSport, as well as all other matters involving section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code . potential legal claims .

The USSA’s Board of Directors leads the USSA Executive Vice President and Chief with clear oversight in the pursuit of the Development Officer is responsible for the realization of its vision and the fulfillment of its development of private giving programs to mission and core values . A long-term strategic increase revenue to support athletic programs . plan, adopted by the Board in 2010, provides Chief Marketing Officer is responsible for the USSA with a roadmap for its support of elite organizational revenue production through athletes across a wide range of different sports . the USSA’s partners, including sponsorships USSA MANAGEMENT TEAM and suppliers .

President and Chief Executive Officer is the Vice President, Athlete Career and Education senior officer of the corporation and serves as oversees athlete education and career the leader of the organization . The position opportunities programs, also serving as Head of provides leadership and vision, as well as policy School for the USSA TEAM Academy . direction to the management team and all Vice President, Communications is responsible departments . The CEO reports to the USSA for internal and external communications, Board of Directors for matters of governance communications education and providing and policy . positive messaging to enhance the public Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer image of athletes and the organization . manages the financial health and stability of Vice President, Events is responsible for the organization . The CFO provides leadership managing a wide range of athletic and events and vision to make meaningful financial to not only provide athletic competition but projections and to provide fiscal management to enhance revenue production to support for the operation of the organization . athletic programs as well as development of Executive Vice President, Athletics oversees the experiential marketing . entire athletic operation of the organization, from grassroots programs through elite teams . The athletic leader provides leadership in high performance, sports medicine and education as well as operations of a diverse and large- scale athletic department .

Executive Vice President and General Counsel 93 chapter 6 ussa department structure

USSA ATHLETICS

USSA Athletics fulfills the USSA’s vision of being and provide a current situational snapshot the Best in the World in Olympic skiing and of performance levels, ongoing monitoring snowboarding, by enabling the various teams and evaluation of programs as part of the within the athletic department to provide strong resource allocation process, warehousing leadership that establishes and supports athletic of sport information for evaluation and excellence, in accordance with the USSA’s collaborative purposes . core values . Athletic Department Operations • Establishing and maintaining a sport USSA Athletics provides leadership to its sports culture for athletes, coaches, staff, parents, and departments for program design and volunteers and partners focused on implementation, ensures that the overall achieving athletic success through personal operation of the Athletic Department is effective dedication, commitment and discipline and efficient in achieving its goals, and is centered on the mission, vision, goals and made up of five sports (alpine, snowboarding, core values of the USSA . freeskiing, freestyle, nordic), a High Performance • Directing the activities of the coaches, department (encompassing Sport Science, athletes, staff, volunteers and partners Sports Medicine and Sport Education), an toward building reliable, quality programs Athlete Career and Education Department, that focus on the four cornerstones for the USSA TEAM Academy and the Competition athletics success - Elite athlete programs, Services department . The athletic department sport science and medicine, national operates in athlete recruitment, competition development systems and sport education . administration, athlete development, and elite performance . The High Performance and • Developing a close working relationship with Competition Services departments operate in a the athletes, parents, clubs, resorts, industry, supporting role to the sports . coaches, judges and officials focused on sport development . The Athletic department provides high performance, educational and rules/ • Creating successful programs at all levels of ranking management services to the sports/ the pipeline through education, coaching, teams, establishes priorities within the athletic and program leadership . department, establishes the management • Manage short- and long-term athletic structure of the athletic department, reviews performance through; a four-year based the actualization of the annual operational planning cycle designed to support plans within each sport and high performance the implementation of effective high- department and coordinates programs that performance programs, podium objectives cross sport/teams, including USOC programs, FIS that clearly define the purpose of funding programs, and internal multi-sport programs . provided to teams/programs, benchmarks USSA Core Values are emphasized through designed to monitor performance against clear expectations of conduct, behavior and desired goals, tools to evaluate performance professionalism . Values are a common thread chapter 6 ussa department structure 94

throughout all programs and are presented and and safeguard of other organization assets . The reinforced visually . Values-based decision-making division also manages all building operations for is a common thread throughout all programs . the USSA Center of Excellence . Policies and standards of training and conduct Contact are reinforced through Champions and Athletics Plus newsletters, Rookie Camp, team briefings Mark Lampe, Executive Vice President/Chief and a high-quality, impactful Team Manual . Financial Officer 435 .647 .2002 Contact mlampe@ussa org. Luke Bodensteiner, Executive Vice Chris Sampson, Controller President, Athletics 435 .647 .2007 Cell phone: 435 .640 .8541 csampson@ussa org. Office phone: 435.647.2055 lbodensteiner@ussa .org Jody Nicol, Accounts Receivable 435 .647 .2009 Nancye Rahn, Athletics Manager jnicol@ussa .org Office phone: 435.647.2016 nrahn@ussa .org Lenea McManus, Accounting Accts Payable Manager USSA FINANCE 435 .647 .2008 USSA Finance provides financial and business lmcmanus@ussa .org analysis to maximize the available funds for athletic programs . That includes analyzing USSA HUMAN RESOURCES / performance of past and current projects to INSURANCE optimize the performance of projects and/or USSA Human Resources/Insurance eliminate non-performing projects . In this regard, Department functions under the direction the department functions as a business advisor of the CEO . The department provides human to each division, department and athletic team resource services to employees of the USSA within the organization to assist each in meeting through payroll coordination, health insurance, its critical objectives within the overall workers’ compensation insurance and other company plan . employee benefits.

Division responsibilities also include the The department also administers insurance accounting and reporting functions for services for the company including USSA general the organization . Accounting includes liability insurance, USSA- club liability insurance processing and recording financial activities program, property insurance, auto insurance of all departments, cash flow management, and participant accident/catastrophic medical payroll processing and all related filings with insurance for team athletes . All insurance local, state and federal agencies; annual certificates and claims are processed or financial statement audits, annual federal coordinated by this department . In this capacity and state income tax filings, monthly financial the department offers help to team members reporting and budget forecasting, revenue in coordinating payments to medical providers risk assessments, management of vehicle pool from the participant accident policy, EAHI policy 95 chapter 6 ussa department structure

and the catastrophic medical policy . property, serving as a contact person for USSA members with questions about their rights Contact under the USSA bylaws, counseling members Shauna Vanderlinden, Human Resource on disciplinary actions and issues regarding Director/ Administration athletes’ rights and serving as point person for Direct Line: 435 .647 .2003 legal issues surrounding anti-doping . Fax: 435 .940 .2743 Contact svanderlinden@ussa .org Alex Natt, USSA Executive Vice President and Laurie Hamble, Insurance /Human Resource General Counsel Administration Manager 435 647 2004 Direct Line: 435 .647 .2019 anatt@ussa .org . Fax; 435 .940 .2759 lhamble@ussa .org USSA BUSINESS ENTERPRISE USSA PURCHASING, SHIPPING AND The USSA Business Enterprise division manages RECEIVING business operations to provide all financial support to athletic programs and the underlying USSA Purchasing, Shipping and Receiving departments to support those operations . It provides daily mailing and shipping support as is a vital area of operation which helps fund well as purchasing services to the company . athletic programs through a coordination of The department processes and routes incoming multi-faceted revenue programs and growing shipments to correct departments and the scale of the USSA’s business through creative individuals . The department also processes marketing programs and strategic partnerships . outgoing shipments to events, camps, etc ., that are not handled by coaching staff . It processes The VP/CMO works closely with the heads and routes athlete mail to team program of each business enterprise and operations managers daily . of the corporation including corporate sponsorship revenue production and supporting The department is also charged with purchasing departments. The VP/CMO oversees specific normal offices supplies for all USSA departments. areas of Sales and Marketing, and coordinates Contact directly with fundraising, membership, Tim Panter, USSA COE Operations Manager, content and creative services, events and Materials Manager communications and information technology . 435 .647 .2024 tpanter@ussa .org

USSA LEGAL OFFICE The USSA Executive Vice President and General Counsel is the primary source for providing legal advice to the USSA . Counsel’s most important duties include reviewing agreements, providing guidance on protection of USSA’s intellectual chapter 6 ussa department structure 96

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

USSA Information Technology Department (IT) is requested must be completed before the responsible for providing technology support and technical support agent can process your services necessary to achieve the USSA’s Vision, request . Mission, Goals and Core Values . With the online service request system, you can: Information Technology Responsibilities • Submit service requests quickly and easily 24/7* . The IT department manages a wide range of • Provide detailed information about your issue responsibilities across a very diverse company, either during or after submission . with day-to-day business taking place on a global scale . • Receive e-mail notifications when your request has been received and updated . • Support – provides technical service and support for staff . Distribute and maintain • Keep track of all correspondence regarding workstation hardware and software . your requests .

• Operations – provide systems support • Improve your communication with USSA for all technical operational systems . Service and Support teams . Build and maintain services such as • Once your request is submitted, one of our telecommunications, networks, databases, technical support agents will contact you to e-mail, websites, audio/video and security quickly address your needs . systems . Please complete the following two-step process: • Development – provide business value, • Step 1 - Log in to the Service Desk through collaboration and participation with internal and external stakeholders, by o URL = http://helpdesk ussa. org. leveraging the right technology to enable o Username = first initial + last name timely, cost-effective and high quality (Example: jlarson) delivery of services . o Password = “workstation password” Technical Support Request Procedure • Step 2 - Submit an incident All technical support requests are logged into the USSA Service Desk system, an electronic o Category - Classify your request database and management system used to o Title - Enter a title track customer requests . For urgent issues or o Description - Describe your request emergencies, call 435 .647 .2011 (Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM MST) . o Urgency - Classify your request

By taking the time to follow the simple, two-step o Main Asset (Optional) - Select the asset process, you can be assured that your request associated with your request will be routed to the most appropriate support o Attachment (Optional) - Add attachments team in the most effective manner possible . and screenshots It is important to know that the information o Submit - Review and submit your request chapter 1 introduction to the team manual 97

Technical Contact Information

Computer Technician Software Developer 435 .647 .2011 435 .647 .2060 comptech@ussa .org softdev@ussa .org

Network Administrator Information Technology Director 435 .647 .2073 435 .647 .2029 netadmin@ussa .org itdirector@ussa .org

Web Developer 435 .647 .2026 webdev@ussa .org

Nate Holland © Getty Images 98 chapter 6 ussa department structure

SALES AND MARKETING

USSA Sales and Marketing identifies, develops In addition to official sponsors, the USSA works and generates marketing revenue programs to with several other companies on an annual basis, provide the maximum amount of funds possible who support individual and/or a series of events . to make the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding Protected Categories and U S. . Freeskiing, the best skiing and snowboarding athletes in the world . The USSA’s biggest contributing sponsors (Visa, Sprint, Audi, Nature Valley, Putnam Investments, The department focuses its efforts on five major Charles Schwab and High Sierra) receive patch areas: intellectual property rights and event space on the various U .S . Ski Team uniforms or sponsorship, media (TV, digital) sales, supplier are major sponsors and contributors to USSA . and consumer products agreements, content These sponsors put a significant value against distribution (television and other media) and this exposure, making it extremely important brand and athlete marketing . for you to wear your uniforms whenever Every USSA partner feels a special connection representing the team . to the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . The USSA reserves the categories represented Freeskiing athletes and brands . They are a big by the uniform sponsors exclusively so that team part of the team’s success and it’s incredibly members do not contract with a company that important that you, as an elite athlete, have a conflicts with a uniform sponsor. Exclusivity is positive and personal affinity with these partner a critical component of the benefits sponsors companies . receive from the USSA . Obviously then, it sends SALES AND MARKETING PROGRAMS a confusing message to consumers and fans when two competing companies in the same Rights and Event Sponsorship category are represented on team uniforms The USSA has official sponsors (see Exhibit A). or at events . In addition to the team uniform These partners are designated as official and sponsors, USSA also has major sponsorship deals exclusive sponsors in their respective categories with P&G, Kellogg’s and Delta Airlines and each – meaning that no other companies can have activate at all or most of the USSA events . Similar a relationship with the USSA within these areas category exclusivity and issues exist for these of sponsorship. Official sponsors have the rights partners as well . to the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and/or TV Sales U .S . Freeskiing brand identity for advertising and promotional purposes . They also receive group- In addition to the official sponsors, Sales licensing rights, which gives partners the ability and Marketing is responsible for selling the to use three or more team athletes together commercial time in the eleven-plus NBC in any single promotion or advertisement or programs the USSA broadcasts on an annual collage of images (photo or video) as long basis . For the most part, this inventory is as they are not identifying the athletes as attached to sponsorship deals but in some cases individuals . the inventory is sold separately . chapter 6 ussa department structure 99

Suppliers and Licensees Television

The USSA’s official suppliers provide product and Skiing and snowboarding television ratings are cash to the U .S . Ski Team, and in some cases, not impressive outside of the Olympic Games . U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing, in return Unlike the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL and NASCAR, the for exclusive rights in their respective category . major broadcast networks do not pay rights fees As team members, you are required to wear to broadcast USSA events . In fact, the USSA has or use specific products from companies in to purchase time from the networks (NBC) to get the Supplier Pool when representing and/or its major events on the air . The USSA broadcasts competing for the team . in excess of 50 hours of programming a year (11+ hours on NBC and 24+ on Versus with The USSA official licensees are allowed to sell additional airings on Universal Sports and UHD) . product that includes the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing logos . In return Television is critically important to help sell for these logo rights, the USSA receives upfront sponsorships and keeps USSA’s sports and fees and royalty payments on all licensed athletes visible, but it is not a moneymaker . The product sold . USSA invests more than $4 million each year to be on television, with a varying net loss each CONTENT DISTRIBUTION season . Please keep this in mind when you are An important part of building the image asked to participate in USSA TV projects . Your and popularity of USSA sports and athletes is positive participation and attitude go a long maximizing their visibility to the American public . way in creating the best possible TV property USSA Sales and Marketing uses television, print driving interest with the viewing public . and digital media to get the message out and increase the value of its sponsorship packages .

USSA TV Model

Expenses Project Expense NBC time buy for 11 hours $ 2,100,000 TV production for 35+ hours of programming $ 2,141,000 Total expenses $ 4,241,000

Revenue Project Revenue Versus rights fee for 40 hours of programming $ 215,000 Universal Sports Network $ 120,000 Rights fee for worldwide distribution of events $ 1,400,000 Unit sales for NBC programming $ 2,100,000 Total revenue $ 3,835,000 Net Profit (loss) (-$ 406,000) 100 chapter 6 ussa department structure

Print Publications or U .S . Freeskiing brand identity in commercials, promotions and on any packaging . This helps Sales and Marketing works with Freeskier and tremendously in building USSA brands and Snowboarder Magazines to produce event interest in competitive skiing and snowboarding promotional advertising . These advertisements and USSA athletes . In addition, national are on newsstands in late November/early branding campaigns also help USSA athletes December and put team athletes center stage gain valuable exposure and viewership that in to kick off the season . Sales and Marketing works turn helps their own individual sponsors . with each of these print vehicles in a revenue- share model where pages are sold to sponsors The USSA develops brand lines and to support the sections . corresponding promotional activities to help the public positively associate with USSA brands Internet and athletes . This is an important component of The internet has become an increasingly popular maximizing revenue through marketing efforts . medium for content distribution . The USSA USSA launched the brand Believe in U S. . this creates broadcast partnerships to bring live or past winter at the one-year out mark of the delayed coverage of World Cup and elite events Sochi Games . Believe in U .S . is our Olympic to USSA fans in almost every sport . Webcasts can rallying cry and is being used internally to drive be accessed through USSA’s own websites at brand awareness to USSA athletes, promote www .usskiteam .com and www .ussnowboarding . our fundraising efforts and drive awareness and com . Additionally, USSA launched two key digital exposure for all things Olympics . We encourage initiatives with Snow Globe, a weekly internet- USSA athletes and staff to support the branding only highlight and athlete lifestyle show, and the effort through their own personal websites and USSA Network, the USSA’s own YouTube channel . social media channels and tweet the hashtag There are thousands of videos uploaded to the #believeinus wherever appropriate . Channel each season and these projects go a long ways in promoting USSA athletes, our sports Contact and our brands .

BRAND MARKETING Michael Jaquet, Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer The USSA puts a premium on delivering the 435 .647 .2046 maximum amount of financial resources possible mjaquet@ussa org. for athletic programs . Thus, the USSA cannot spend a significant amount of money on building the brands through advertising or other promotional vehicles . Instead, the USSA looks to its partners and athletes to help promote USSA events, our sports and the athletes themselves .

Currently, 60 percent of USSA sponsors have an individual athlete agreement with at least one team athlete . USSA sponsors use athletes and the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and/ chapter 6 ussa department structure 101

MERCHANDISING FOUNDATION PROGRAMS

The Foundation manages a variety of successful The USSA sells merchandise for the U .S . Ski Team, fundraising programs, each of which contributes U .S . Snowboarding, and U .S . Freeskiing as a net revenue to fund athletic programs . Athlete resource for all skiing and snowboarding elite participation is critical to the success of many of athletes, members and fans . Check out shop . these programs . Please notify the Vice President usskiteam .com and/or shop .ussnowboarding . of Foundation if you are interested in involving com, the best place to go for U .S . Ski Team, yourself in these activities . U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing high- end apparel, authentic logo-wear, books, Gold Pass Program educational materials and more . Featured The Ultimate Lift Ticket! Valid at more than 250 ski manufacturers include Spyder, Neve, High Sierra, resorts across the country, the fully transferable The North Face, Huge Sportswear and Smartwool . Gold Pass is one of the Foundation’s largest Email promotions throughout the year highlight annual programs . There are 400 passes minted special offers and featured products . each year and each pass is available for a In addition to offering great products, the $10,000 donation to the team ($8,500 of this online shop showcases USSA brands and elite amount is tax deductible) . The program nets on athletes. Profits from the shop directly support average over $3 million .

USSA athletes . Special Events

Athlete Discount The Foundation hosts major gala-style events As a USSA elite athlete, you receive a 20 across the country in cities like New York, percent discount from the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Chicago, Boston, Denver, San Francisco and Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing online shop . more . Foundation events range from backyard Discount codes will be provided by Vicky get-togethers to on-snow days to large sit down Gaylord, vgaylord@ussa .org dinners with live music . Special events net over $1 .4 million annually and athlete attendance is critical to an event’s success . USSA FOUNDATION On-Snow Clinics The U .S . Ski and Snowboard Team Foundation is the non-profit, fundraising arm of the U.S. Ski The Foundation offers donors VIP on-snow Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing . experiences with Olympic athletes . Powder Girls The Foundation raises money to support and Ice Men are three-day skiing adventures for year-round athlete training, development, men and women of all levels . For a contribution, competition and educational needs . The a select group of supporters are given the primary sources for this revenue are Gold Pass, opportunity to enhance their skiing skills and major gifts, special events, direct marketing and spend time on and off the hill with some of the the Team PyeongChang Olympic hospitality best skiers in the sport . program . These programs raise over $6 million a year to support the Athletic Team . Major Gifts 102 chapter 6 ussa department structure

Individual gifts of more than $1,000 make up Contact the Foundation’s major gifts program . Regional Trisha Worthington, Executive Vice President and managers across the country cultivate prospects Chief Development Officer and donors to solicit major gift donations . This tworthington@ussa org. program is the largest area of growth and opportunity in the Foundation . Jessica Miller, Special Events Director Office: 435.647. 2095 Chapter Receptions jmiller@ussa .org Small receptions are hosted across the country by major gift managers to raise both awareness COMMUNICATIONS and funds . USSA Communications is responsible for telling the USSA’s story, providing communications Olympic Hospitality leadership through guidance and support to Team PyeongChang allows donors to make athletes, sports and departments resulting in an a multi-year commitment totaling $300,000 increasing awareness of the organization’s role, to attend the 2018 Olympic Winter Games in image and brands . PyeongChang, Korea with the Foundation and The department conducts programs in both athletes of the USSA Olympic Team . internal and external communications . Its Legacy Campaign function is to provide support to athletes, sports and departments through leadership, content The Legacy Campaign is a $60 million campaign management and education and to create to build the Center of Excellence, a training revenue-supporting public relations programs . center located in Park City, and an endowment for the team . The campaign achieved its goal Media Outreach in January, 2011 . The endowment continues to USSA Communications maintains close contact grow each year through sound investment and with key national and international media, as also provides over $1 .5 million annual directly to well as sport, lifestyle and resort community athletic programs with that amount anticipated journalists . Work in this area is designed to to grow to around $2 million annually by 2014 . increase public visibility of USSA and its athletes, Alumni Relations programs and events .

The Foundation works to keep a lifelong Stakeholder Communications and Advocacy community of team alumni connected to USSA The USSA’s stakeholders including sponsors, through meaningful engagement . This is done suppliers, donors, trustees and board members, through seasonal updates and communications, resorts and other supporters are vital to helping recognition events and a variety of other fund athletic programs . USSA Communications activities to increase alumni participation . manages programs to keep stakeholders informed and to build advocacy to grow their support . As athletes, you play a key role in communicating to those stakeholders through the USSA’s advocacy outreach . chapter 6 ussa department structure 103

Athlete Services If you want to receive news feeds directly, simply go to the team’s websites and click on USSA Communications provides service to RSS Feeds . athletes at key events managing interaction with news media and other services to help and Advocacy support athletes in the competition environment . Building supporters of the U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Communications Education Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing helps strengthen relationships with fans and USSA USSA Communications develops and partners . When people make an investment in implements programs to provide the USSA, they will promote the organization to communication training to athletes at all levels others and further build the chain of advocates . through grassroots programs for team and individual training for interested athletes . Athletes are a main link to build this support . Throughout the season, you might be called Community/Industry Relations upon to reach out to important sponsors and Positive advocacy of the ski and snowboarding event executives who have major decision- industry, including suppliers and resorts, along making power in making USSA competitions with the team’s Center of Excellence home in happen . This communication can be as simple Utah is important to athletic program support . as an email thanking the contact for their The department manages programs to create a support and investment in the USSA . Athlete positive relationship, with team athletes playing communication is the ultimate thank you . You a critical role in that communications . are the face of the sport . A thank you coming Communications from you is much more powerful than a note coming from USSA staff . The USSA maintains a 24/7 year-round news bureau providing the latest news to media Please take these opportunities to make a outlets worldwide and fans of the sport . From lasting impression on the USSA’s influential China to Austria to Canada, almost every contacts. Your program director, press officer or elite-level competition in which team athletes USSA Communications might ask you to make participate is covered by international wire news this contact throughout the season . The impact services, providing every newspaper, TV, radio you can make is enormous . and web news outlet with U .S . Ski Team, U .S . Contact Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing coverage . Tom Kelly, Vice President, Communications If you or your family are not seeing the coverage 435 .647 .2010 you expect from your local media, please tkelly@ussa .org contact them directly to alert them of the Doug Haney, Chief Press Officer community’s interest . Every media outlet has 518 .524 .4674 access to team news from wire services like dhaney@ussa org. the Associated Press (AP) and the USSA News Bureau can easily provide content to them directly if it isn’t already . 104 chapter 6 ussa department structure

EVENTS

USSA Events is responsible for the organization must commit financial support to the of elite-level ski and snowboarding events in the events, which equates to approximately U .S . elite events include World Championships, $3 million annually . World Cups, the U .S . Snowboarding Grand Event Management Prix, U S. . Championships and any USSA event produced for television . USSA Events oversees The USSA works with each event location the organization of about 20 events annually . to establish an organizing committee to coordinate all aspects of an elite event . USSA’s USSA Events provides value to athletes by staff is integrally involved with each organizing producing premier competition opportunities committee to insure the quality of these services, in the U . S . as well as creating revenue including: opportunities for Sales and Marketing and Foundation . The ultimate goal for all USSA events • Design and construction of competition is financial profit, which is used to fund USSA’s courses athletic programs . The department provides the • Planning and installation of temporary venue platform to generate around $8 million annually facilities, infrastructure and signage in sponsorship and television sales associated • Installation of television production facilities with USSA events . and infrastructure EVENTS PROGRAMS • Development of event sales, marketing, USSA Events performs a wide range of functions public relations and media strategies related to major event management for • Organization of off-hill administration the USSA . including event headquarters, coordination Calendar Development of officials and volunteers, organization of The department works with FIS and USSA sport athlete lodging and meals, media services, committees to develop annual World Cup, etc . NorAm and sport calendars that support the • Implementation of event promotions athlete pipeline, taking into consideration athlete and partnerships; the department works advancement, travel and quality of venues . proactively to insure USSA’s events promote Venue Negotiation and Contracts both the U . S . Ski Team, U .S . Snowboarding and U .S . Freeskiing brands as well as the The Vice President, Events and event directors images of our team athletes are responsible for negotiating agreements with each event location . These negotiations • Implementation of hospitality and include the operational requirements to host entertainment for event sponsors and donors an event as well as requirements to provide Family Credentials USSA value through exclusive training, hosting Family members of USSA athletes have the of development events and other goods and opportunity to reserve credentials at USSA’s services . Through these negotiations venues various events. Credential benefits such as chapter 6 ussa department structure 105

special viewing access locations, discounted Lindsay Arnold, World Cup Event Manager lifts and lodging vary depending on each Office: 435-647-2072 competition venue associated with their family Cell: 435-714-0361 credentials . It is the family’s responsibility to larnold@ussa org. request credentials by the deadlines provided by the Events department . MEMBER SERVICES The USSA Member Services Department provides Family Credential Policy service and support for over 425 clubs and 1 . Family credentials are available upon 30,000 individual members; managing initial request for immediate family members only registration and renewal through fulfillment of and are based on availability . member benefits.

2 . Family credentials allow for special viewing CONTENT AND CREATIVE SERVICES access and may or may not allow for Under broad supervision, Content and complimentary lift access, discounted lift Creative Services establishes and maintains access and/or discounted lodging . a clear corporate image for the USSA 3 . There is no cost for the family credential . through development, implementation and management of brand vision and standards, Contact as well as working with staff, partners and Calum Clark, Vice President, Events stakeholders to manage USSA’s video, design, Office: 435.647.2053 photography, brand management and Cell: 435 .640 .8531 web design . cclark@ussa .org The USSA Content and Creative Services Eric Webster, U .S . Grand Prix Tour Director Department provides support to USSA Office: 603-279-0121 management, sports, support departments Cell: 435-659-9491 and other staff . The Content and Creative ewebster@ussa .org Services Department provides video and offers Nick Alexakos, U .S . Snowboarding and Freeskiing brand management to organizational partners Event Manager including sponsors, licensees, member clubs, Office: 435.647.2018 equipment suppliers, media outlets and other nalexakos@ussa .org affiliated organizations who use USSA’s brands.

Mike Henderson, World Cup Events Director Contact Office: 435.647.2014 Kyle Kilcomons, Director of Creative Services Cell: 435 .640 .8540 Office: 435.647.2087 mhenderson@ussa .org KKilcomons@USSA org.

Sarah Brunson, Photography Manager Office: 435.647.2012 SBrunson@ussa .org chapterappendix national2 team membership Ted Ligety © Sarah Brunson/U.S. Ski Team chapter 1 introduction to the teamappendix manual 107

APPENDIX U S. . SKI TEAM COMPETITION SUPPLIERS For a list of competition supplier contacts, please contact Sales and Marketing Account Executive .

HARD (SKIS, BOOTS, BINDINGS)

Alpina* Exel Sports* Atomic One-way* (Rossignol) Bomber Skis Rossignol Dalbello Swix Sport Dodge Ski Boots Komperdell Elan Leki Fischer Skis * Nordic Only Full Tilt Hart Ski Corporation GLOVES/PROTECTION Head USA Auclair Liberty Skis** Reusch Madshus* Ortema Moment Skis Slytech Nordica Leki Rossignol/Lange Dainese Salomon* OTHER SUPPLIER / SPONSOR Tecnica/Blizzard Volkl/Marker BOSU Fitness Booster Straps (Ski Metrix) * Nordic only DeWalt ** Freeskiing only Dominator GOGGLES, HELMETS AND SUNGLASSES Eps-Doublet Bolle Holmenkol Briko Kenwood Radios Dainese Ski Sauna Oakley Skier’s Edge POC Sun Valley Ski Tools Rudy Project* Swix UVEX Toko Shred Tools4Boards Wintersteiger * Nordic Only World Cup Supply

POLES 108 appendix

EXHIBIT A ATHLETE / SPONSOR ENDORSEMENT AGREEMENT

AUDI NATURE VALLEY Category: Official U.S. Ski Team Vehicle Category: Official Granola/Grain/Energy Bar Sponsor Since: 2007 Sponsor Since: 1993

BUD LIGHT PAUL MITCHELL Category: Official Malt Beverage Category: Official Hair Care Products Sponsor Since: 2000 Sponsor Since: 2002

BURTON PROCTOR AND GAMBLE Category: Official Snowboarding Uniform Category: Cleaning products, make-up, Sponsor Since: 2002 household goods, men’s health and grooming Sponsor Since: 2013 CHARLES SCHWAB Category: Official Brokerage Firm PUTNAM INVESTMENTS Sponsor Since: 1997 Category: Official Mutual Fund Provider Sponsor Since: 2010 COLUMBIA Category: Official Freestyle Uniform SPRINT Sponsor Since: 2011 Category: Official Communications Provider Sponsor Since: 1993 DELTA Category: Official Airline SPYDER Sponsor Since: 2007 Category: Official Alpine Uniform Sponsor Since: 1995 DJO Category: Official Knee Brace TEMPUR-PEDIC Sponsor Since: 1997 Category: Official Sleep Provider Sponsor Since: 2010 GOPRO Category: Official Camera THE NORTH FACE Sponsor Since: 2012 Category: Official Freeskiing Uniform Sponsor Since: 2010 HELLY HANSEN Category: Official Alpine Base Layer TIRERACK Sponsor Since: 2012 Category: Official Tire Retail Partner Sponsor Since: 2012 KELLOGG’S Category: Official Cereal USANA Sponsor Since: 2013 Category: Official Supplements and Vitamins Sponsor Since: 2010 appendix 109

VISA Category: Official Credit Card Sponsor Since: 1986

ZEAL OPTICS Category: Official Eyewear of Freeskiing and Snowboarding Sponsor Since: 2008

2xu Category: Official Compression Wear Sponsor Since: 2012

Andrew Weibrecht © Getty Images