PRESS RELEASE - MAY 18, 2015

BOZEMAN, MT - Bozeman’s ski club, the Bridger Ski Foundation (BSF), just received the highest honor possible from the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA). Bridger Ski Foundation was named a Gold Certified Podium Club, becoming one of 17 clubs nationwide with this designation, and the only one in Montana.

The USSA’s podium-level certification process involves a rigorous self-study and peer review of best principles and practices for ski and snowboard clubs. After months of BSF compiling documentation and application information, USSA conducted an onsite visit in Bozeman in February. On May 13, at the Annual USSA Club Excellence Conference in Park City, Utah, BSF was awarded Gold Certification. Bridger Ski Foundation staff and board members were on hand to receive the award. The Gold level is intended for clubs that are Best in the World, according to USSA.

USSA in awarding Gold to BSF, said what sets BSF apart as a Gold Club is, “BSF is an excellent example of a club that serves the entire community and is recognized as one of the most important community partners in Bozeman, MT. Building on a rich history of volunteerism, in 2010 BSF engaged in a comprehensive organizational overhaul with the intention of restructuring governance and leadership, running a more professional organization, and streamlining operations and fundraising. Professional and well-established program leadership in three sports (Alpine, Cross Country, Freestyle) and the coordination of a major trails program whereby the organization grooms ski trails at five venues for its cross-country program and the community set BSF apart.”

Bridger Ski Foundation Executive Director Swithin McGrath said, "It was terrific working with our whole community and USSA on our club certification. The Gold Certification is a great validation of what we’re doing for the athletes and community and provides a platform to build on for the future."

Bridger Ski Foundation’s roots go back to 1936, when Bozeman’s first ski club was formed. The grassroots sentiment—that skiing is a life-long, community-driven activity in Bozeman—is still alive and well today.

Bridger Ski Foundation Board President Susan Carstensen said, “The certification is a result of everything the parents, volunteers, coaches, staff and community has worked on over the last 79 years.”

For BSF, the certification is about more than just an award. The USSA’s Club Development Program is designed to give clubs a clear roadmap to become stronger organizations. This is a strategic part of USSA’s plan to support the more than 400 clubs in every corner of the country.