(Sports Network) - Jeremy Bloom, one of the United States' most decorated freestyle skiers, announced his retirement from competitive skiing Wednesday.

He was in preparations for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, but decided to retire in order to fully focus on other interests, including broadcasting, business and philanthropy efforts.

In four full seasons at the World Cup level, Bloom accumulated 26 World Cup podiums, 11 World Cup wins, two overall World Cup titles, and a World Championship gold medal.

He also participated in the 2002 and 2006 Winter Games, and holds the world record for most consecutive World Cup wins in a single season (six).

"I am eternally grateful to my family, friends, coaches and teammates for the success that I have obtained in my sports career," Bloom said. "Without this group of people, whose wings I have stood on, I would never have enjoyed the athletic privileges and successes that I dreamed of as a young boy. The passion that I once had for sports has naturally transitioned into my new ventures. I feel like I'm twelve years old again, dreaming and climbing new mountains. And, I hope that many will join me in these pursuits."

In addition to being a standout skier, Bloom played two seasons for the University of Colorado football team as a wide receiver and punt returner. His college football career was cut short because the NCAA ruled him ineligible because of endorsement contracts, but Bloom was a fifth-round choice in the 2006 NFL Draft by Philadelphia.

"It was amazing to watch him excel at both football and skiing during his time at the University of Colorado and it was great to be part of his streak of six World Cup victories in a row during the 2005 World Cup season," said Moguls head coach Scott Rawles.





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