"Paul has made a great contribution to skiing and his leadership in many areas will be missed," said Marolt. "This is his decision, though, and I respect that. This is a very important position for all of our disciplines and I need a strong leader to serve as our athletic director. I have a number of candidates and I will name a leader for all disciplines at the conclusion of an appropriate review."

A native of Davis, Calif., Major, 39, was a former University of Colorado alpine skier and coach. He joined the U.S. Ski Team women's staff in 1984 and became head women's coach in 1988, a position he held until 1994. He served as alpine director for the 1994 and 1995 seasons, before being named as athletic director in 1996. During his tenure he directed a women's program which included medal-winning performances by Picabo Street, Hilary Lindh, Diann Roffe-Steinrotter, Tamara McKinney and Julie Parisien.

"I have been in a leadership position within the Team for over ten years," said Major. "I feel privileged that I was able to provide strong direction during that time which resulted in some great athletic success. I am strongly in support of Bill Marolt and his goals, but I feel it is time for me to move forward into new challenges."

Marolt indicated that Major would continue some of his roles within the International Ski Federation committee structure. Major is planning to work closely with USSA in a transition this spring.

The position of athletic director or vice president, athletics is responsible for management of programs in alpine, cross country, disabled, freestyle, jumping/nordic combined and snowboard.