Slovenia target next generation of skiers with ‘Šolar na smuči’ project

Slovenia Ski Association have launched the ninth edition of their Šolar na smuči’ project – which translates to ‘schoolchild on skis’ – as they continue to seek out the next generation of skiers.  

In conjunction with World Snow Day, on 19 January, the FIS member plans to run the initiative until March, with the aim of giving over 10,000 schoolchildren a chance to experience snow sports for free, learning the basics of three different disciplines: Alpine, Cross-Country, and Snowboarding.    

Former athletes Petra Majdič and Jure Košir are ambassadors of the project, sharing their experiences and expertise to encourage children to take to the snow.  

Olympic bronze medallist Majdič helped with World Snow Day celebrations, which included an event at the Planica Nordic Center, where slopes are steeped in history.  

“[The center], with its exceptional heritage, came alive once again in the spirit of Cross-Country skiing,” said Slovenia’s marketing associate Žan Kralj. 

“On the perfectly groomed Cross-Country trails, elementary school students made their first strides as part of the project. Majdič inspired the children with her advice and personal story.”

One of the key aims of Šolar na smuči is to break down any barries that may stand in the way of the next generation of ski hopefuls experiencing the joys of winter sports.  

This means providing at least one day of activities, completely free of charge, to young people of all backgrounds, reaching every corner of the country.  

In the last nine years, Slovenia have done exactly that for over 27,000 schoolchildren.  

The association plans to continue their investment in the next generation, through this project and beyond, upholding the tradition of skiing in the country.  

“We aim to enable 10,000 children to try skiing for one day and with that number in mind, we must recognize that it represents half of the generation in Slovenia,” Kralj explained to FIS.