"Brenna has been a big part of women's ski jumping in the U.S. and she should be very proud of her pioneering efforts to gain attention for this rising sport," said John Farra, U.S. Nordic Program director. "She was a key part of one of the best teams in the world for two-and-half years."

Ellis not only learned to perfect her jumping technique, but she learned discipline and how to get along with teammates for extended periods of time as they traveled the world looking for the best snow.

"It was more than just being a part of the first women's ski jumping team," she said. "I love knowing that I participated in a sport that isn't very well known." Ellis will always love skiing and jumping and may never move far from the hills of Park City, but she knows where she'll be for the next 24 months, and she couldn't be happier.

"I never wanted to throw my whole life away on those hills," she said. "Fourteen years is a long time. I'm ready to find what else is out there."

E-MAIL: wleonard@desnews.com