USA Nordic Sport is launching a new initiative, “Pathways for Success,” to address the challenges facing Nordic combined following the IOC’s 2022 decision to exclude women’s Nordic combined from the 2026 Winter Olympics and question the men’s inclusion for 2030. In a recent meeting, community leaders discussed strategies to enhance the sport’s viability:

1. **Increased Marketing**: Improving communication and leveraging social media, as exemplified by athlete Annika Malacinski’s growing online presence.
2. **Sponsorship Engagement**: Fostering relationships with sponsors and identifying new fundraising opportunities to stabilize finances.
3. **International Collaboration**: Partnering with top Nordic combined nations to boost global interest.
4. **Hosting Events**: Seeking to bring a Nordic combined World Cup event to Lake Placid, NY.
5. **Advocacy**: Promoting the sport and raising awareness.

Despite some athletes achieving personal bests, the US Nordic combined program has faced funding struggles exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for increased financial support is critical, with an IOC decision on the sport’s continued Olympic presence expected by summer 2026. Olympic gold medalist Billy Demong emphasizes the importance of both supporting current athletes and building a grassroots foundation for future success. Donations to help sustain the sport can be made via USANordic.org.