DURHAM, N.H. – University of New Hampshire ski program coordinator/Nordic head coach Cory Schwartz (’82) recently announced the establishment of the UNH Nordic Ski Team Scholarship Fund by Peter Chudy, II (’87) and paid tribute to Nelson Bennett (’40) for his contributions to the ski program and to his country during World War II.
The announcements were made during a gathering of ski team members, alumni, the Friends of UNH Skiing and Ski New Hampshire at the Whittemore Center Skybox Lounge on Nov. 4.
Bennett was a member of the elite 10th Mountain Infantry Division, which was a specialized ski infantry that was sent into critical battles in the Italian Alps and northern Apennines during World War II. Bennett traveled from Yakima, Wash., to take part in the celebration.
“This was a special night to celebrate the past and contributions by Mr. Bennett and other New Hampshire skiers in the 10th Mountain Division,” Schwartz said. “Likewise, the UNH Nordic Team Scholarship Fund will helps us in the future and enable us to recruit the top cross-country skiers to New Hampshire, as we strive to achieve a top 5 finish and eventual NCAA championship.”
Please contact Brenda Holt-Mullaney, Associate Director, Athletics Major Gifts at (603) 862-3942 or brenda.mullaney@unh.edu for more information about ways to support the UNH Skiing program.
The 2012 UNH ski season begins at the Bates Winter Carnival on Jan. 20, with alpine races originating from Sunday River and Nordic racing taking place at Black Mountain. For more information, visit www.unhwildcats.com or www.unhskiing.com.
