PAUL SMITHS — Paul Smith’s College and U.S. Biathlon announced on Tuesday a groundbreaking partnership that will provide scholarships for qualified biathletes to attend Paul Smith’s College while continuing their pursuit in biathlon.

The new scholarship program recognizes the unique demands faced by student-athletes in biathlon, with rigorous cross-country skiing and rifle training requirements, while pursuing 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,” Saranac Lake native and PSC head Nordic and biathlon coach Matthew Dougherty said. “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,” Paul Smith’s Athletic Director Zachary Luzzi said. “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 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,” U.S. Biathlon President and CEO Jack Gierhart said. “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.