VARA ANNOUNCES THE
2024 VARA AWARD RECIPIENTS
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VARA HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE
CHUCK HUGHES
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Chuck Hughes has been a cornerstone of the ski industry and a devoted supporter of VARA since the mid-1970s. His enduring commitment to the betterment of VARA, its programs, officials, athletes, and their families is evident in his extensive involvement and leadership across all levels of the sport. Chuck's passion for alpine ski racing has driven him to contribute tirelessly as a coach, educator, and leader, becoming a revered figure among VARA's community. He has not only shaped the path for aspiring racers but also for officials, exemplifying a spirit of loyalty, care, and giving. Chuck’s enthusiasm and dedication make him a true ambassador and "rah-rah" leader for the sport and the association.
Starting his coaching career in 1975 at the Pico Ski Club, Chuck quickly established himself as a guiding force in ski education. By attending the first USSA Coaches Academy in 1980, he demonstrated his commitment to advancing his own skills and sharing that knowledge with others. Over the years, Chuck has held coaching and educational roles at prominent institutions such as Killington Resort, Pico Ski Club, Burke Mountain Academy, Winter Park, the Ontario Ski Team, and KMS. He was a pioneer, leading the first group of KMS athletes to train in Europe, reflecting his forward-thinking approach and dedication to providing unique opportunities for young athletes.
As a certified USSA Coach, Alpine Official, and FIS Technical Delegate (TD), Chuck's influence extends well beyond coaching. He is known for his expertise in officiating, serving as a TD for prestigious events, including the World Cup, Canadian Nationals, NorAm Cup, FIS UNI’s, EISA Championships, NCAA Championships, South American Cup, and USCSA Regional Championships. His deep understanding of the sport and commitment to fair play have earned him worldwide respect and admiration.
Currently, Chuck continues to serve as a FIS TD and nationally ranked certified Alpine Official, holding a USSA Alpine Level 300 coaching certification. His leadership roles have spanned various boards and committees, including past president and long-time board member of VARA, chairperson of the Eastern Alpine Officials Committee, and chairman of the VARA Alpine Officials Committee. His current roles on the USSA Sport Committee, USSA TD Working Group, Eastern ACC Committee, and US FIS TD Working Group further underscore his ongoing commitment to the sport.
Chuck's exceptional dedication has been recognized through numerous accolades, including the Burckett/Dodge Award for Outstanding Officiating in the Eastern Region and the VARA Volunteer of the Year Award. His contributions go beyond just his professional achievements; they reflect a genuine passion for nurturing the growth of alpine ski racing and fostering a community that supports the development of officials and athletes alike.
Alongside him, his wife, Betty, has also been a significant contributor to the ski community, having served as the director of academics and headmaster at KMS for 16 years and coaching in the KSC/KMS program for over 20 years. Together, they embody a spirit of dedication and commitment to VARA and the sport of alpine ski racing. Their three children, Mid Vt Council athletes, and successful elite competitors have also contributed greatly to the sport and alpine community.
Chuck's unwavering leadership, dedication, and extensive contributions to VARA and the alpine community across all facets of the sport exemplify the qualities of a VARA Hall of Fame Inductee.
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The Rolf Gidlow
VARA Development
Coach of the Year
Matt Prendergast
Stratton Mtn School
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Matt Prendergast is a highly respected professional and a standout leader in Vermont's ski racing community. Since returning to Stratton Mountain School in 2018, Matt has served as the Head FIS Coach, where he has developed a team culture and coaching philosophy that treats each athlete as an individual. He is intentional in viewing each person not just as an athlete but as a young adult, focusing on their overall development, including physical training, mental health, and the mental game. This holistic approach has not only driven his athletes' success but also fostered strong, meaningful relationships with both his athletes and staff.
Under Matt's leadership, his young competitors have consistently dominated U18 podiums, with many going on to excel at U18 Nationals. Notably, one of his athletes advanced to the Spanish National Team and is now among the top-ranked skiers globally for the 2005 birth year.
In the Eastern Region, Matt has been an active member of the Eastern Development Committee, ensuring that VARA remains at the forefront of athlete development and FIS calendaring. He is also a member of the VARA Development Committee and plays a vital role in bridging the gap between FIS and scored competitions in the state.
His commitment to his athletes is unrivaled, and he embodies the Stratton Mountain School program philosophy, serving as an exceptional mentor to his athletes. Matt’s leadership, dedication, and passion for the sport make him deserving of the Rolf Gidlow VARA Development Coach of the Year award.
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VARA Junior Development
Coach of the Year
Terry DelliQuadri
Burke Mtn Academy
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Terry Delliquadri has been an integral part of BMA for three years, making a significant and lasting impact on the Burke U14 team culture and success. His passion for the sport is evident in his dedication to coaching every athlete on his team, helping each one improve. The hallmark of a successful team lies in how its athletes support and respect one another, especially in a demanding sport like skiing. Under Terry's guidance, the Burke Mtn Academy U14 team, which includes both weekend and full-time athletes, trains and works hard together in a positive and productive environment.
Terry is a constant presence on the hill, arriving before the athletes and skiing with them until the last chair. He fosters a genuine love for the sport and creates an incredibly fun atmosphere where athletes thrive. The results speak for themselves—Terry's athletes have organically achieved an impressive 50 percent of the U14 VARA, Eastern, and CanAm championships over the past three years.
In addition to his impressive coaching and dedication, Terry is a USSS coach educator, technical delegate, and Alpine Official educator. His investment in the sport and commitment to his athletes are testaments to his dedication. Terry Delliquadri embodies the spirit of excellence and passion that defines the character of the VARA Jr. Development Coach of the Year.
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Alpine Official of the Year
Mark Jacunski
Cochran's
Head Timer/AO
Mark Jacunski, named VARA Alpine Official of the Year, is a model of professionalism, organization, and approachability. Every year, he volunteers his time to upgrade timing equipment, manage race day logistics, and lead VARA timing workshops. Mark is responsible for overseeing all sanctioned races at Cochran's Ski Club and serves as the timer for every high school race held there throughout the season.
Mark is known for his humility and willingness to assist others, always approaching each event with calmness, kindness, and a positive attitude. His outstanding efforts were particularly evident during the Sugar Slalom event at Stowe—a famously spirited dual slalom race characterized by its lively atmosphere and participants in costumes. Managing multiple race categories simultaneously in such a vibrant environment, while ensuring the event runs smoothly, showcases Mark’s exceptional skills and demeanor.
As a highly knowledgeable Alpine Official, Mark maintains his credentials and is a dedicated mentor to new officials. He generously dedicates his time to conduct beginner-level timing workshops for Eastern and VARA officials, where his patient and thoughtful instruction is greatly appreciated. Mark is also mindful of the needs of VARA race administrators, contributing significantly to the improvement of educational sessions and offering valuable suggestions to enhance race operations and registration processes across the state. His insights have helped streamline the registration platform, demonstrating his consideration for VARA families and officials alike.
Mark’s commitment, expertise, and kindness make him a truly deserving recipient of the VARA Alpine Official of the Year award.
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Volunteer of the Year Marnie Roussel
Pico/MVC
Marnie is long overdue for her recognition as VARA Volunteer of the Year. With some roots in the Rutland area, she has been an invaluable asset to the Mid Vermont Council, particularly with the club organization for the VARA World Cup Parade. Not only is she a major factor in assuring things go well for that council she is also a hands-on, boots-on-the-ground warrior for the VARA World Cup parade set up and day of implementation. Marnie's can-do approach ensures the parade's success, making her an essential part of the team.
Marnie's dedication shines through in her work alongside Pete Davis, managing staging and pre-parade organization. Corralling 900 participants for an organized parade at one of the most significant alpine events in the world is no small feat, but Marnie rises to the challenge with remarkable efficiency and enthusiasm.
Even though her children are no longer competitively involved in the sport, Marnie's commitment to the alpine community in Vermont remains steadfast, whether she is stuffing over 500 parade hats into bags for the VARA Clubs or taping the flags of the participating countries to race gates. Beyond her contributions to VARA, she also supports the Killington World Cup local organizing committee delivering vendor, athlete, and team credentials.
Marnie’s unparalleled commitment to the VARA community and the Killington World Cup exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and makes her a truly deserving recipient of the VARA Volunteer of the Year Award.
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VARA Hall of Fame, VARA Merit Award recipientss, and the 2025 VARA Team will be recognized on October 26th at Killington's beautiful K1 Lodge at the VARA Awards Reception from 4-7 pm. Hearty appetizers will be served. The dress is office casual.
Please join the VARA community in celebrating our deserving members!
4 - 7 pm
[RSVP TODAY]
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This event is proudly supported by Admin Ski Racing. | | | | |
