Utah Deaf Ski Archives
Written by Jodi Becker Kinner
Published in 2013
Updated in 2024
Published in 2013
Updated in 2024
Author’s Note
After reading an article in Wasatch Magazine from November 2013 about the "Utah Ski Archives," I was inspired to create a page called "Utah Deaf Ski Archives" on this website. Being passionate about skiing, I'm thrilled to share photos related to this sport.
In the past, the Utah School for the Deaf played a significant role in the history of deaf skiing. Students at the school had the opportunity to learn how to ski and enjoy the sport. Their passion for skiing led to the formation of the White Eagle Ski Club on November 19, 1958. George G. Howell guided the club and helped keep it running smoothly. Arthur Syrett, an experienced skier, was elected club president, and Judy Jenkins was named secretary. The club initially had twenty-three members (Jenkin, The Utah Eagle, February 1959). The club changed its name to "Ski Club" in 1960 (Utahn, 1960).
In the past, the Utah School for the Deaf played a significant role in the history of deaf skiing. Students at the school had the opportunity to learn how to ski and enjoy the sport. Their passion for skiing led to the formation of the White Eagle Ski Club on November 19, 1958. George G. Howell guided the club and helped keep it running smoothly. Arthur Syrett, an experienced skier, was elected club president, and Judy Jenkins was named secretary. The club initially had twenty-three members (Jenkin, The Utah Eagle, February 1959). The club changed its name to "Ski Club" in 1960 (Utahn, 1960).
Arthur Valdez, 1968. Source: The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1968
The First Deaf Ski Convention was a significant event in deaf skiing history. It lasted a week and was held in Park City, Utah, on March 16, 1968. Arthur Valdez, a prominent figure in the Deaf skiing community and an alum of the Utah School for the Deaf, was the chairman. His assistants were David Mortensen and Rodney Walker, both respected alums. Their collective efforts and dedication made the convention a resounding success, marking a milestone in the development of the sport.
Utah, known for its famous "Greatest Snow on Earth" and proximity to some of the country's best ski resorts, is a haven for Deaf skiers. The beauty of these resorts and Utah's rich history of deaf skiing combine to create an exciting skiing experience. I am delighted to share some skiing pictures with you, having learned the sport from my parents, John and Jeanne Becker.
Please note that these images are for viewing only and should not be reproduced or sold. We appreciate your understanding and respect for the history and culture of deaf skiing in Utah
Enjoy!
Jodi Becker Kinner
Utah, known for its famous "Greatest Snow on Earth" and proximity to some of the country's best ski resorts, is a haven for Deaf skiers. The beauty of these resorts and Utah's rich history of deaf skiing combine to create an exciting skiing experience. I am delighted to share some skiing pictures with you, having learned the sport from my parents, John and Jeanne Becker.
Please note that these images are for viewing only and should not be reproduced or sold. We appreciate your understanding and respect for the history and culture of deaf skiing in Utah
Enjoy!
Jodi Becker Kinner
The boys from Utah School for the Deaf are getting ready for ski. Source: The Utah Eagle, February 1957
L-R: Harold W. Green, Superintendent of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind; Mrs. Eldon Checketts, President Ladies Auxiliary of Ogden Kiwanis Club, and John Cox, President, Ogden Kiwanis Club. Source: The Utah Eagle, January 1958
The students from the Utah School for the Deaf are skiing. Source: The Utah Eagle, 1960
Source: The Utah Eagle, 1962
Arthur Valdez, a member of the Usquebaugh Ski Club, 1966
UAD President Leon G. Curtis (left) gets a few words into Don Miller, winner of the Men's Division Ski Races. Source: The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1968
'Utah Hosts First Deaf Ski Convention.' Source: The UAD Bulletin, Spring 1968
A Slideshow of the Utah Eagle Magazines
References
Jenkin, Judy. White Eagle Ski Club. The Utah Eagle, vol. 70., no. 5 (February 1959): 6.
"Ski Club." Utahn, 1960.
"Utah Hosts First Deaf Ski Convention." The UAD Bulletin, vol. 5, no. 2. (Spring 1968): 1 , 3 & 4.
"Ski Club." Utahn, 1960.
"Utah Hosts First Deaf Ski Convention." The UAD Bulletin, vol. 5, no. 2. (Spring 1968): 1 , 3 & 4.
