INDIANAPOLIS — Two Hoosiers, who both hail from Lawrenceburg, are set to represent Team USA at the Beijing Winter Olympics.
U.S. Ski & Snowboard announced their nominations for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics Friday. The U.S. Olympics & Paralympic Committee will confirm their nominations when it formally announces the U.S. Olympic Team.
Two-time Olympic medalist Nick Goepper is nominated for the slopestyle and big air teams. First-time Olympian Justin Schoenefeld is set to be a part of the freestyle team.
After winning bronze and silver at the previous two Olympic Games, Goepper is hoping to leave Beijing with gold.
"You ask me what do I have left to prove, well, the writing's on the wall," Goepper said of the missing gold medal to complete a full set.
While he grew up at Perfect North Slopes in southern Indiana, Goepper now trains in Park City, Utah on a homemade ski ramp and a trampoline. He tries to keep the training light and fun. He doesn't want to get caught up in all the pressure that comes with being an Olympian.
"Only sometimes does it feel like training. Mostly, it's a ton of fun," Goepper told 13Sports Director Dave Calabro in October 2021. "I have a new coach this year and I am skiing with some great people, great friends, people in my group."
Schoenefeld has been on the U.S. Ski Team since 2019. He earned his spot there after winning three times on the NorAm tour in 2018. In his free time, he enjoys fly fishing, playing guitar and golfing. He also has a private pilots' license.