Paul Smith’s College and U.S. Biathlon Announce New Scholarship Partnership to Support Student-Athlete Excellence
Program provides financial support for qualified biathletes pursuing higher education in the Adirondacks
August 13, 2025
Paul Smiths, NY ~ Paul Smith's College and U.S. Biathlon recently announced a groundbreaking partnership that will provide scholarships for qualified biathletes to attend Paul Smith's College while continuing their pursuit of excellence in competitive biathlon.
The new scholarship program recognizes the unique demands faced by student-athletes in biathlon, a sport that combines the rigorous training requirements of cross-country skiing and rifle marksmanship with the pursuit of higher education. Through this partnership, qualified biathletes will receive financial support to help make their college education more accessible while maintaining their competitive training regimen.
"We are thrilled to partner with U.S. Biathlon to support the next generation of biathlete student-athletes," said Matthew Dougherty, Head Nordic and Biathlon Coach at Paul Smith's College. "Our location in the heart of the Adirondacks provides the perfect training environment for winter sports athletes, and this scholarship program demonstrates our commitment to helping these dedicated individuals achieve both their academic and athletic goals."
"We are incredibly excited to renew this partnership," said Zachary Luzzi, Athletic Director at Paul Smith's College. "It not only helps us grow the sport of biathlon on campus, but also reflects our deep commitment to expanding athletics at Paul Smith's College."
Paul Smith's College, nestled in the snow-rich Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, offers an unparalleled setting for biathlon training. The college features its own Nordic Center, complete with an 8-point shooting range specifically designed for biathlon training. Additionally, student-athletes have access to all the Olympic venues in nearby Lake Placid for world-class training opportunities. The college's commitment to experiential learning and small class sizes provides student-athletes with the flexibility and support needed to balance rigorous academic coursework with competitive training schedules.
"The U.S. Biathlon - Paul Smith's College partnership provides an incredible opportunity for biathletes to pursue both their educational and athletic goals," said U.S. Biathlon President & CEO Jack Gierhart. "The generous scholarship program offers financial assistance and access to a flexible, high quality, and relevant college education in an environment conducive to winter sports training, creating a unique opportunity for our biathletes to succeed both in the classroom and on the snow."
Paul Smith's College and U.S. Biathlon believe this scholarship program and the comprehensive support it provides will be key to developing world-class athletes. The partnership is designed to further cement Paul Smith's College as the premier destination for student-athletes who refuse to choose between pursuing excellence in sport and achieving their educational aspirations.
The scholarship program will consider factors including competitive biathlon experience, academic achievement, and demonstrated commitment to the sport. Eligible students will be able to pursue any of Paul Smith's College's degree programs while maintaining their biathlon training and competition schedules.
Interested students can contact Dougherty for application requirements and deadlines at Mdougherty@paulsmiths.edu.
About Paul Smith's College:
At Paul Smith's College, it's about the experience. As the only four-year institution of higher education located in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York, Paul Smith's provides real-world, hands-on learning in fields such as business and hospitality, culinary management, forestry, environmental sciences, and natural resources. We can draw on industries and resources available in our backyard while preparing students for successful careers anywhere. Our community of resourceful, enterprising, supportive, and adventurous individuals collectively provides experiential education, student support in the classroom and beyond, and meaningful opportunities for our alumni. We pride ourselves on research and advocacy on issues that improve our planet and the lives of the people who inhabit it. Learn more at www.paulsmiths.edu.
About U.S. Biathlon:
As the Olympic sports organization for biathlon in the United States, U.S. Biathlon is recognized by the International Biathlon Union (IBU) and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) as the National Federation for the sport.U.S. Biathlon works with clubs and regional centers across the country to support grassroots development through elite international competition. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, U.S. Biathlon staffs and finances the U.S. Biathlon national and junior national teams and is dedicated to growing the sport across all levels. For more information, visit usbiathlon.org.
Media Contacts:
Emily Roberts
Sara Donatello