Troy Watts named alpine director at Team Summit

By Published On: August 30th, 2016Comments Off on Troy Watts named alpine director at Team Summit

Team Summit Colorado (TSC) has named Troy Watts as alpine director and head coach. Watts replaces his friend and colleague, Greg Needell, who tragically passed away earlier this summer at Mammoth Mountain.

“I am honored and grateful to have the opportunity to continue Greg’s legacy of building a world-class organization,” said Watts. “Greg and I shared the belief that Team Summit Colorado and the community in which it resides have all of the necessary ingredients to develop into a world-class organization—one that both Summit County and the skiing community can truly be proud of.  After having worked with him over the years and especially so closely last season, I can honestly say that Greg’s vision for TSC was deeply shared and will continue to guide us going forward.”

Watts, a former member of the U.S. Ski Team, competed at all levels of alpine ski racing and possesses both domestic and international coaching experience.

Most recently, Watts had been named interim alpine director for TSC after serving as head U16 coach. In addition to his duties as alpine director, Watts will continue coaching the U19 FIS program for the team.

Previously, Watts was a member of the U.S. Ski Team competing on the World Cup circuit for six years, qualifying for the ‘87 and ’89 World Championships and possessed a top 30 world ranking in giant slalom. Watts competed on the U.S. Pro Tour and won the South American Pro Tour as a rookie.

Watts’s extensive coaching experience includes program director at New Hampshire’s Loon Race Team, head FIS coach at both Loveland Race Club and Waterville Valley along with coaching at the 2015 World Championships in Beaver Creek.

Watts graduated from Burke Mountain Academy in Vermont, and received his undergraduate degree from CU Boulder. After acquiring his J.D.,Watts practiced law in New Hampshire for nearly a decade.

Watts has deep roots in Summit County, Colorado, where he began his ski career with the Breckenridge Ski Club, spending many days on the local’s Carter Park rope tow while attending elementary, junior and high school, along with stints during the 80’s and 90’s with Team Breckenridge Sports Club. He currently resides in Breckenridge with his wife Linda and youngest daughter Stella while his two oldest daughters, Taylor and Jordan, attend college.

“We are thrilled to have Troy and his spirit as a key component of our athletes’ success,” said TSC Board President, Bruce McLennan. “He embodies our philosophy of whole athlete, whole team, whole community and we look forward to his leadership in our alpine program.”

Jerry Karl, executive director of TSC, echoed his sentiments.

“It is exciting to have Troy head our Alpine Ski Racing Program as we continue to build world-class programs,” he said. “The loss of Greg Needell completely stunned us all, but with Troy taking over as Alpine Director and Head Coach, I know our programs will continue to thrive under his leadership. Troy brings a unique background to the club with his high-level competition and coaching experiences. His competitive nature, strong technical knowledge along with his passion and energy will serve our athletes and their families extremely well as they work to achieve their dreams.”

Release courtesy of Team Summit

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