SALT LAKE CITY – The University of Utah ski team has hired Liechtenstein native Stephan Kunz as its new assistant cross country coach. Kunz will assist with the Ute cross country team's day-to-day management, training and race preparation. The annoncement was made today by ski team head coach Kevin Sweeney.
“It is a fantastic day for the Utah ski team,” said Sweeney. “Bringing in a coach with the credentials Stephan has will certainly have a tremendous impact on the quality of our program. I'm flattered that Stephan wants to join us, and I think that makes a huge statement about the quality of the University of Utah and our athletics program. Our goal is to be the best collegiate ski racing program in the country.”
“Stephan will have an immediate impact on the quality of training, technique and race waxing,” Sweeney continued. “I really don't think it gets any better than this. We have a very solid team and, now with the addition of Stephan to the staff, we're ready for another run at the title.”
Kunz has raced at the highest level in the world for nine years. The seasoned veteran skie took part in three Olympic Winter games, including the Salt Lake City Winter Games and five Nordic World Ski Championships. Kunz's best results have been two second-place finishes and one third-place finish at the World Cup races. In 2000, Kunz took seventh overall at the World Cup. The nordic skier will also be pursuing a bachelor's degree in business administration at the U.
“I'm looking forward to the great challenge and pleasure of working with motivated young skiers,” said Kunz. “While skiing at the Olympic Winter Games here in Salt Lake City, I learned how beautiful this place really is. The Olympic tracks at Soldier Hollow are great facilities and I'm excited to get started.”
Source: www.utahutes.com
