U.S. Olympic mogul ski team members gathered for a press event in Livigno, Italy, where they expressed their excitement and pride as they prepare for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. Leading the talented squad are Vail’s own Tess Johnson and Liz Lemley, both former Ski and Snowboard Club Vail athletes. They join defending crystal globe champion Jaelin Kauf, also from Vail, and Olivia Giaccio, who transitioned from SSCV to Steamboat Springs. The men’s team features fellow SSCV graduates Dylan Walczyk, Charlie Mickel, Nick Page, and Landon Wendler.
The qualification rounds for both men and women begin on February 10, with the women’s mogul final scheduled for February 11 and the men’s competition set for February 12. Dual moguls will take place on February 14 and 15, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event.
As they reflected on their journeys, team members shared highlights of their careers. Walczyk expressed pride in dedicating the last 20 years to his passion, while Lemley celebrated her resilience after recovering from an ACL injury. Johnson reminisced about a recent World Cup victory, where the team secured the top four spots, and Kauf reflected on winning the overall tour last season.
Johnson emphasized the significance of returning to a more traditional Olympic atmosphere after the challenges posed by COVID-19 during the previous Games in Tokyo and Beijing. She acknowledged the support from her team, coaches, and family, attributing her success to the collective effort involved in her journey.
Lemley addressed the challenges of competing with injuries, like those faced by Lindsey Vonn, suggesting that recovery can often lead to a strong performance if managed well. Walczyk highlighted the contrasting nature of mogul skiing and paragliding, noting that while both involve risks, they allow athletes to connect with their surroundings.
Kauf shared valuable lessons learned from past Olympic experiences, particularly regarding managing pressure. She described the expectations as a privilege fueled by the support of fans worldwide. Johnson, who wore the yellow bib at the start of the season, spoke about overcoming a back injury and appreciating her victory as a result of her dedication over the past four years.
As the team prepares to compete on an international stage, they are united by a shared sense of pride in representing the United States. Kauf summarized their collective sentiment, stating, “Sports have an incredible power to bring us together,” encapsulating the hopeful spirit as they head into the competition.