June 02, 2015 (Park City, Utah) – Utah Olympic Park Sport Clubs celebrates a week of exciting announcements. Park City Nordic Ski Club (PCNSC) was awarded 2015 USSA Club of the Year and 2015 Ski Jumping/Nordic Combined Club of the Year on Friday, May 15 at the annual USSA Club Excellence Conference Chairman’s Awards Dinner. During the same conference, FLY Freestyle and PCNSC also received Gold Club certification from the U. S. Ski and Snowboard Association.

PCNSC was selected as 2015 Club of the Year from a list of 430 clubs across 30 states and all disciplines. USSA has been presenting the Club of the Year award since 1998 and FLY Freestyle was the 2012 recipient. PCNSC was also awarded 2015 Ski Jumping/Nordic Combined Club of the Year.

“This is a testament to the hard work of all the coaches, athletes, and families that are a part of PCNSC. We couldn’t be more pleased to receive such honors from the USSA,” said PCNSC Program Manager, Robert Lazzaroni. “We have some of the best coaches in the country in Nordic combined, ski jumping, and cross country skiing. They really deserve this recognition.”

PCNSC offers year around programs from age 7 thru adult, with a strong emphasis on “Sport for Life.” PCNSC has doubled in number of participants over the last two years.  PCNSC ranked 8th at Junior Nationals this year and PCNSC XC girls team is ranked 2nd in the country. Two PCNSC alumni represented the United States at the World Nordic Champion in 2015.

FLY Freestyle joined PCNSC in the celebration as both sport clubs earned the highest level of podium certification—the Gold Club certification. The podium level certification process involves a rigorous self-study and peer review of best principles and practices for ski and snowboard clubs. All Silver and Gold club candidates had an on-site visit and review conducted by USSA High Performance staff and club consultants who are leaders in the ski and snowboard club world. The certification process not only recognizes club excellence, but also gives a clear roadmap for all clubs to become stronger organizations. This is a strategic part of USSA’s plans to support clubs, be a more club-based organization and better understand the challenges and opportunities that exist for clubs in every corner of the country.

“The podium certification process was not an easy one,” said Utah Olympic Park Sport Program Manager, Matt Terwillegar. “It required us to really evaluate every aspect of our sport club programs and doing so has helped us uncover opportunities and areas where we can continue to improve the club experience for our athletes, coaches, and community.”

PCNSC and FLY Freestyle offer summer programs for all ages. Information and registration is available online at UtahOlympicLegacy.org.