“Weisel Honored by Olympic Foundation,” published in 2011 by the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA), discusses Thomas Weisel’s influence on skiing and talks about his relationship to the sport. The article is an announcement that Weisel won the 2011 George M. Steinbrenner III Sport Leadership Award, one of the most prestigious awards in skiing. The article also shares some details about Weisel’s background in both business and athletics and provides background about the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team Foundation and the U.S. Olympic Foundation.

“The Steinbrenner Award is presented annually to honor an outstanding member of the Olympic family who has contributed to sport through management, sport organization endeavors or the enhancement of competitive opportunities,” said the USSA, speaking of Weisel’s win. The award specifically looks for individuals who reflect good leadership qualities, ethical conduct, and dedicated commitment to a sport.

Next, the feature considers some of Weisel’s other achievements in sports: he was a five-time national speed skating champion, a masters skiing national medalist, and a three-time world champion in masters cycling. His successes in athletics span four decades. USSA acknowledges the role Weisel played in shaping the U.S. skiing industry. He joined the U.S. Ski Team Educational Foundation and served as its chair from 1983-1994, where he helped raise millions of dollars in support of the sport.

Weisel was honored by the USSA in 1999 with the Julius Blegen Award, the foundation’s highest honor. Weisel is now considered one of the most influential leaders in the history of the USSA.

“I have received far more than I have given to this sport,” Weisel said. “The athletes, coaches, organizational staff and an army of passionate volunteers have enabled experiences that have enriched my life forever.”

The article closes with the history of the USSA and the U.S. Olympic Foundations. Both organizations represent excellent athletes and the nation, and both have benefited from Weisel’s guidance. The article also provides details about how the organizations get their funding, when they were established, and how they operate.