A previous Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club freestyle ski coach has been promoted to freeski program director, according to a Thursday news release from the organization.

Tony Lodico has been a part of the coaching staff since 2004 and brings over 30 years of experience in youth outdoor education to the position.

“Tony is a thoughtful and responsive leader who has consistently listened to our freeski community, developing programs and coaching that truly reflect the Steamboat spirit,” said Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club Athletic Director Dave Stewart, in a statement. “He is deeply respected by coaches, athletes, and families and is exceptionally well-prepared to lead the program as the sport continues to evolve.”

Born in western New York, Lodico first dropped into a halfpipe in 1994 and began freeski coaching shortly after.

Lodico also has an extensive background in sailing, surfing, bodysurfing and sea kayaking; along with experience as an adventure learning instructor.

Lodico was a member of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Freeskiing Sport Committee, as well as a regular invitee to U.S. Ski & Snowboard Gold Camps. He was also a board member of the United States of America Snowboard and Freeski Association.

After taking a two-season sabbatical to sail along the east coast of the U.S. and coach surfing in Australia, Lodico, he returned to the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club in January 2024.

Currently, Lodico serves on the U.S. Ski & Snowboard National Faculty and represents the Rocky Mountain region on the Freeskiing Sport Committee.

“We are fortunate that Tony continues to share his time, energy, and talents with the Steamboat community,” continued Stewart in a statement. “His leadership will help ensure a strong future for our athletes and the sport of freeskiing.”

Lodico replaces former Freeski Program Director Andy Michnay who died suddenly in January. Michnay began his career with the SSWSC in 2015. He had held the leadership position since 2022 and worked closely with Lodico for many years.