Meet Olympic Medalist Bill Koch

Dear Fellow Vermonter,

I was very proud to watch Ben Ogden win two Olympic medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics in February. Ben is only the second American man to win an Olympic medal in cross-country skiing. The first was fellow Vermonter Bill Koch.

Bill grew up skiing to school every day in Guilford, Vermont. From a young age, he loved winter and experiencing the outdoors on skis. He was only 20 when he competed at the 1976 Innsbruck Olympics and won silver in the 30 kilometer event. The Soviets dominated the sport, but Bill believed he had a chance to medal. He remembers skiing faster in that race than he ever had before. Six years later, Bill won the overall World Cup title.

After his success on the world stage, the youth cross-country program in New England was named after Bill. It was important to him that the league focused on building skills and having fun on skis. Today there are 17 Bill Koch Youth Ski League clubs across Vermont, and hundreds of kids participate every year.

Ben Ogden skied in the Bill Koch League growing up and also spent time skiing with Bill himself. Bill recalls Ben being a fearless young skier and is thrilled that he has joined the tradition of Vermont skiers finding Olympic success. This tradition also includes Jessie Diggins, the most accomplished U.S. cross-country skier of all time, who retired this March, at the conclusion of the World Cup circuit. Bill, Jessie and Ben are all role models for young skiers who aspire to work hard, win medals and have fun doing it.

It is great to hear from Bill about his career and perspective on skiing in Vermont. For young Vermonters who watched the Olympics and are excited to get out and ski, look for a Bill Koch League club near you!

Sincerely,