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Shelley Osterloh ReportingThe current US men's downhill champion and one of the toughest competitors on the US ski team is from Utah, and he's a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Steven Nyman recently spoke to Shelley Osterloh about how his faith has guided him.
Steven Nyman is one of the young rising stars of the US Ski team, making his Olympic debut. He was born and raised in Utah County, a member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While some skiers may like to drink and party -- like Bode Miller recently revealed in a network interview -- Steven Nyman says he avoids the party scene. He says his upbringing has contributed to his success.
Steven Nyman, U.S. Ski Team: "I think it's really helped me with who I am and my strengths, but it's also really hard to uphold those strengths while you're on the road being surrounded by this completely different culture that you've never been around."
Nyman says his faith has also given him a chance to give back to people less fortunate. In the summer of 2004, Nyman and his family traveled with other members of the LDS church to Haiti, to help build an orphanage.
Steven Nyman: "The humidity was insane, but it was an eye-opening experience to realize how fortunate we are to live where we live."
Nyman grew up in Sundance, Utah, where his father ran the ski school. That meant Steven was on skis and hiking for as long as he can remember.
Steven Nyman: "Growing up at Sundance was amazing because I had everything. I had nature to teach me basically."
Nyman also had very supportive parents who couldn't be more proud of who their son has become.
Becky Nyman, Steven's Mother: "He is just a good, kind person. At ski races, a lot of times, parents will just come up to me and say, your son is so nice, we really enjoy him. And that makes me feel good as a mother."
Scott Nyman, Steven's Father: ''He's worked hard and accomplished his goals, and he's done it in a good way."
