Key Takeaways
- The December 6-7, 2025 event at Solitude Mountain Resort marks the first ISMF Ski Mountaineering World Cup held in the United States.
- Athletes will compete for final Olympic qualifying spots before ski mountaineering debuts at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games.
- YES Brands’ logo will appear on Team USA jerseys during the competition as part of the youth sports platform’s sponsorship.
- USA Skimo vice president Michael Paulus’ family office PCM Growth provides financial backing for YES Brands.
- Youth and collegiate participation in ski mountaineering is expanding ahead of the sport’s first Olympic appearance.
First U.S. Ski Mountaineering World Cup Sets Stage for Olympic Qualifying
The International Ski Mountaineering Federation will host its World Cup at Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah on December 6-7, 2025. The competition opens the 2025-2026 World Cup season and represents the final opportunity for athletes to secure qualification for ski mountaineering’s Olympic debut at Milano Cortina 2026.
YES Brands, a youth enrichment sports platform, announced its sponsorship of Team USA for the event. The company’s logo will be featured on Team USA jerseys throughout the two-day competition.
Jersey Sponsorship Aligns with Youth Development Mission
YES Brands positions the sponsorship as an extension of its focus on youth development and Olympic sports advancement. “Ski mountaineering’s inclusion in the Olympics is a testament to the dedication and skill of these athletes,” said Chris Chang, CEO of YES Brands. “We’re proud to support Team USA and help inspire our nation’s youth to pursue excellence in sport and in life.”
The company partners with youth sports entrepreneurs to deliver athletic programming with an emphasis on character development. Its involvement in the World Cup creates visibility for the sport among families and young athletes.
Shared Leadership Links USA Skimo Growth with Platform Backing
Michael Paulus serves as vice president of USA Skimo, the national governing body for ski mountaineering in the United States. His family office, PCM Growth, provides financial backing for YES Brands. Paulus has contributed to USA Skimo’s organizational expansion and played a role in bringing the World Cup to American athletes and audiences.
Under USA Skimo’s leadership, the organization has focused on developing Olympic pathways for U.S. athletes, hosting international events, and promoting youth participation. The World Cup event reflects the governing body’s efforts to raise the sport’s profile domestically as it enters the Olympic program.
Supporting Olympic Pathways for Emerging Athletes
Ski mountaineering, also called skimo, combines uphill climbing on skis with downhill racing. The sport’s Olympic inclusion has driven increased interest among young athletes nationwide. YES Brands’ support connects its youth sports platform with competitive pathways at the national team level.
Chang added, “By supporting Team USA’s journey, YES Brands is investing in the future, empowering a generation to reach new heights.” The company was founded by parents with backgrounds in consumer business development and focuses on long-term partnerships with youth sports operators.
via: EQS
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