Time is ticking for the Colorado Mountain College Alpine ski team’s future. 

After over 40 years of history, the 2025-26 winter season could be the Eagle’s last unless it reaches a $300,000 fundraising goal by Nov. 30. The money is needed due to financial pressures weighing on the college along with shrinking support at the state and federal level. 

Many collegiate ski programs operate off endowments and donors while CMC’s team runs off college resources. 

“For me and so many teammates, the ski team has been a stepping stone,” said CMC Ski Team member Everett Dooley, in a news release. “It’s saved a lot of people from falling out of the sport.”

Collegiate ski teams across the nation are running into similar challenges. The University of Nevada, Reno and University of Alaska Anchorage programs were both saved after raising enough money. Meanwhile, the Western Colorado University and University of New Mexico programs have been eliminated. 

“To keep losing these teams is a tragedy,” said CMC Head Coach Scott Tanner, in the release. “Fewer college programs mean fewer opportunities for young racers.”

To stay alive, CMC is launching a $1.5 million campaign which would help keep the team afloat through at least 2037. 

An anonymous regional family has announced a $150,000 match to help the school reach its immediate goal of $300,000 by Nov. 30. The team’s goal is to have $150,000 annually for operations over the next 10 years. 

Beginning in the 2026-27 season, student-athletes will contribute $10,000 each season to remain on the team. 

“If we lose the CMC Ski Team,” Dooley said, in the release, “we’re losing a way for kids to stay in the sport, stay in school and grow — as racers and as people.”

To donate or learn more, visit Coloradomtn.edu/foundation/ski-team-fund or contact Olivia Goldsworthy at ogoldsworthy@coloradomtn.edu or by calling 970-870-4407.