“Though today I resign, I have no regret concerning my involvement in the sport of luge. My participation, and those I've had the privilege to work with, has forever molded my character,” wrote the 21-year-old, 2006 Olympian in her retirement letter. “The result can only aid me in the future and I am eternally grateful to the coaches and staff who have supported and guided me as an athlete. They have had unwavering faith in my potential, and so my only fear in this decision is in disappointing them.”

Retrosi began racing on the senior World Cup tour during the 2004-05 campaign and captured one series medal when she helped lead USA Luge to a bronze medal finish during a Dec. 2005 World Cup team event, held in Lake Placid, N.Y. As a junior (to age 20) level slider, Retrosi slid to the 2005 junior World Cup finale silver medal and a pair of Verizon U.S. Junior National Championship crowns. She also won the 2002 overall Youth A (to age 17) World Cup silver medal.

“USA Luge appreciates Samantha’s effort, dedication and class over her years of involvement in the sport. She accomplished a lot and I hope she is proud of what she was able to do in a relatively short period of time,” said executive director, Ron Rossi. “Disappointed? It is not a matter of disappointment as much as it is respect for each athlete’s choice. People’s priorities change – and there is nothing wrong with that – in this case, we wish Sam the absolute best as she pursues her academic and career goals. As her time permits, we will certainly look to keep her involved with our programs in any way she might want to help.”

Retrosi’s departure leaves USA Luge with seven sliders vying for three remaining spots on the fall 2006 World Cup team (Erin Hamlin has locked up the lone reserved slot). As the World Cup tour only allows for the entry of four women’s singles sleds per nation into each event, still to be determined this summer, will be a method in which USA Luge will select the remaining three women that will actually race in the fall events.