Update on U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s Participation in the Surfing NGB Process

Statement on U.S. Ski & Snowboard's Participation in the Surfing NGB Process:

U.S. Ski & Snowboard entered this process with enthusiasm and conviction in our ability to help elevate American surfing and we continue to believe strongly that our athlete-first model, track record of success across 10 Olympic & Paralympic sports and world-class infrastructure could provide the resources that U.S. surfers deserve. 

However, after thoughtful consideration, and despite the USOPC’s invitation to participate in its open process, meaningful interest from athletes and commercial partners, and considerable time and effort on behalf of our organization, we have decided not to move forward with the USOPC’s process at this time. 

Despite U.S. Ski & Snowboard reaching out multiple times over the past 18 months, USA Surfing—the National Governing Body that relinquished its certification in 2021 for failure to meet USOPC compliance standards—chose public attacks and uninformed legal threats instead of constructive dialogue and engagement. Considering those factors, U.S. Ski & Snowboard has concluded that our energy and expertise are best used in service to our athletes as they prepare for the upcoming Winter Games.

We feel progress in sport requires partnership and trust. We remain open to opportunities in the future should the environment become more collaborative.