New Zealander Chris Knight named head coach of U.S. women's tech team

New Zealander Chris Knight named head coach of U.S. women’s tech team{mosimage}Chris Knight, a U.S. Ski Team coach since the 2003 season, has been promoted to head coach of the U.S. women’s slalom and giant slalom team, head coach Patrick Riml announced.

Knight, who was born and grew up ski racing in New Zealand, replaces Trevor Wagner, who resigned. He graduated with an undergraduate degree from Canterbury College in Christchurch and is working toward a master’s in sports science and sports coaching from Australia’s University of Queensland. Knight joined the U.S. staff with the 2003 season at the Europa Cup level before moving to the women’s WC speed team for a season. He’s spent the last two winters coaching the women’s tech skiers.

Previously, Knight coached Australian great Zali Steggall, the 1998 Olympic medalist and ’99 World Championships slalom gold medalist, before becoming personal coach for Great Britain’s Chemmy Alcott.

“Chris has coached at a variety of positions during his four years with us and he’s always shown great leadership, great team spirit,” Riml said. “He finds ways to make things happen for the women and I’m sure he’ll be an outstanding head coach.”

U.S. Alpine Director Jesse Hunt echoed Riml. “Chris has been a key player in the women’s team in a number of roles. While he has been gaining experience and rounding out his skills, he has earned the trust of the athletes and staff. Chris will bring consistency and continuity to what has been a continually evolving program.”

Knight lives in Park City.

— USSA