Avid Nordic sports skiier, Todd Lodwick, was chosen on Wednesday by fellow Olympian colleagues to carry the United States flag during the opening ceremonies on Friday.

As America’s first Olympian to compete in six Winter Games (yes, he has participated in six games!), the 37-year-old has so many achievements under his belt, so it’s no surprise that the nation’s most successful Nordic player would be nominated to take on such an honorary role.

It says a lot when your teammates select you. That’s how the USA #Olympic flag bearer is chosen: Congrats Steamboat’s Todd Lodwick! @9NEWS

— Cheryl Preheim (@CherylPreheim) February 5, 2014

According to Fox Sports, Lodwick was born and raised in Steamboat Springs, Colo., where he initially developed a love for skiing. His first Olympic game was at the age of 17 in Lillehammer, Norway. He then went on to win 10 world champions-including two gold medals. Following a brief two-year departure from the Winter Olympics, Lodwick returned to his first love and earned a silver medal in the 2010 Vancouver Games.

In addition to everything he has accomplished, the skiier says that this probably takes the cake, making it one of the most exciting moments he has yet to experience in his Olympic career.

Lodwick told the Denver Post how thrilled he was about his election:

“Being nominated to carry the flag at the opening ceremony is one of the greatest honors that has ever been bestowed upon me. I couldn’t be more humbled and excited to be selected among all of the great athletes who were vying for this representation. Going into my sixth Olympic Games, it feels like I have already won a medal, and to cap off my career by representing the United States of America and Team USA is truly a privilege.”

Teammate, Bill Demong, was the closing ceremony flag bearer in 2010 for the U.S. Olympic teams.

Yeah Buck! Todd Lodwick 2 bear flag in 6th Winter Oly Appearance making it 2x NC in a row. Going 2 b there w @SkiFletch @TFletchernordic

— Billy Demong (@BillyDemong) February 5, 2014

Lodwick, however, will be following in the footsteps of retired Olympian Bill Koch, who was chosen in 1992 as the first cross-country skiier to carry the American flag for opening ceremonies.

.@BillyDemong, @TFletchernordic, @SkiFletch & Todd Lodwick are on their way to #Sochi2014! #believeinuspic.twitter.com/fUaQwPtbVi

— USSA Nordic (@USSA_Nordic) February 2, 2014

Located below is an interview with Lodwick about the 2014 Sochi Games: 

Image via Wikimedia Commons