MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN, CA (June 7, 2016) – Team Summit Colorado’s Alpine Director Greg Needell passed away suddenly after an accident at Mammoth Mountain, CA on June 7. Needell was involved with the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) for many years. He was involved with USSA clubs around the country and served as a U.S. Ski Team World Cup coach for eight years.
“Greg exhibited a truly amazing passion for the sport, touching the lives of many athletes and coaches across the country,” states USSA President and CEO Tiger Shaw. “His loss will be felt by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with Greg's immediate family, his wife Shannon and son Coen, as well the Team Summit family and to all those who were touched by Greg.”
A sevice for Needell will be held on Monday, June 13 at 2 p.m. at Clark Associates Funeral Home in Katonah, NY. The service will be followed by a gathering at Needell's parent's home.
Anyone wishing to contribute to the service with photographs, song suggestions, memorable anecdotes about Needell, etc., may contact Needell's sister Claire at chollander13@gmail.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that well-wishers make donations to Needell's high school alma mater, the Stratton Mountain School. (7 World Cup Cir, South Londonderry, VT 05155) or donate to the Greg Needell Scholarship fund for Team Summit on RallyMe.
A memorial/dedication ceremony will also be held at at Stratton Mountain School later this year.
QUOTES
Sasha Rearick, Head Coach – Men's Alpine
Today is a sad day for all of us in the ski racing community. The loss of Greg Needell was a deep shock to me today, having known Greg for twenty-some years and to find out that he is gone is tremendously sad. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him for nine years on the National Team level, where we worked alongside each other in many different roles. Greg taught me a lot. Even the thought of not being able to sit down and chat about what's going on on the World Cup or with youth skiing is devastating. Such a talented coach, who loved the sport. Fortunately he was out doing what he loved most today. My thoughts are out to his family – Shannon and Coen. I wish them all the best.
