Mark Smith to lead Vail’s FIS alpine program

By Published On: May 19th, 2017Comments Off on Mark Smith to lead Vail’s FIS alpine program

Ski and Snowboard Club Vail (SSCV) has welcomed industry veteran Mark Smith to its 2017-18 alpine staff. Smith will take on the role of head FIS coach and head women’s coach for the alpine program. He comes to SSCV with 30 years coaching experience, having worked with racers at the junior, collegiate and World Cup levels.

Smith coached privately this past winter. Prior to that, he worked for eight seasons at Green Mountain Valley School (GMVS). He served as Eastern Region development coach, and worked with the top alpine men at GMVS. He coached Daron Rahlves, Harper and Briggs Phillips privately prior to their qualifying for the U.S. Ski Team. Smith also worked as women’s coach and then head coach at Middlebury College. He coached at UVM, and was an assistant tech coach with the U.S. Ski Team.

“Mark is someone I have known for many years. He’s been a hugely successful coach at every level and with every group of athletes he’s coached,” said SSCV Executive Director Kirk Dwyer. “He’s someone I would characterize as an ‘athlete’s coach.’ I feel there is a significant alignment in terms of philosophy and principles, which will help the club move forward in a very cohesive manner.”

A career Easterner, what attracted Smith to Vail was the quality of the program and its structure. His goals include building on the existing culture of excellence and managing athletic development for long-term success. This extends beyond simply “making the team,” said Smith.

“The coaching staff here in Vail is the best in the country and the success of the athletes at every level underscores their commitment to excellence,” Smith said. “I am thrilled to be on the ground in Vail and excited to begin work with staff and athletes to build upon an outstanding legacy of success.”

Release courtesy of Ski and Snowboard Club Vail

Share This Article

About the Author: SR Staff Report