Cooperating Nations: Successful training camp in Planica (SLO)

Once again, the picturesque venue of Planica (SLO) played host to the third edition of the Nordic Combined and Ski Jumping training camp for nations belonging to the informal network of smaller countries. This year's camp was nothing short of a resounding success, thanks to the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie among participants.

A significant change marked this year's event - the informal network of smaller nations decided to rebrand itself as "Cooperating Nations".
The main goal of this network remained unchanged: To extend support to nations facing significant challenges and to foster the growth and development of Nordic Combined and Ski Jumping sports through collaborative efforts. The cooperation sought participation from all corners; welcoming nations, clubs, teams, and individuals with open arms. Together, they aimed to fortify Nordic sports and pave the way for progress.

One crucial aspect of this cooperation involved joining hands with larger nations.
The exchange of knowledge and expertise between the smaller and bigger nations proved to be instrumental in the success of these training camps. In the spirit of collaboration, this year's camp featured a special lecture by Alexander Stöckl and Bine Norcic, who shared their technical insights and learnings from their cooperative program's first year. The attendance of successful athletes like Philip Raimund from Germany (third-place finisher in the European Games), Slovenia's Spela Rogelj, and Austria's Nordic Combined World Cup athlete Martin Fritz, during the inspirational evening added to the camp's allure.

A testament to the growing significance of the camp was the visit of FIS judge Luka Ograjenesek from Slovenia, who spent two days observing the proceedings. Furthermore, there was a strengthened collaboration with FIS. Berni Schödler, coordinator for development in FIS, and Marit Stub Nybelius, coordinator for Cooperating Nations, worked closely together, fostering mutual understanding and support. Notably, this year's camp received financial backing from FIS Ski Jumping and FIS Nordic Combined, emphasizing the rising importance of the event.

The schedule for the camp was carefully curated to cater to athletes of varying skill levels. Advanced athletes had the unique opportunity to receive equipment assessments from the Ski Jumping Equipment Controllers Christian Kathol and Aga Baczowska. The off-session training for senior athletes was overseen by Christian Raimund and Olen Laxroix from Switzerland. Marit Stub Nybelius, the coordinator from Sweden, took charge of organizing and planning the sessions, with additional support from Rex Bell (USA), Adrian Kapustik (SVK), Joel Bieri (SUI), and Zahari Sotirov (BUL). Linda Fries Åman (SWE) was responsible for motoric training and body treatments, while Remo Imhof (SUI) graced the inspiration evening.

In a bid to foster even stronger bonds and cooperation among the participants, a new rule was introduced that required everyone at the camp to stay at Rute Hotel. This decision was driven by the desire to create a closer-knit community during the event, leading to fruitful collaborations.

The camp witnessed a diverse representation, with a total of 65 athletes and 20 coaches hailing from 10 different nations. From Monday to Saturday, the participants followed a packed schedule, focusing on improving their skills and refining their techniques. The most remarkable aspect of the camp was the palpable joy and camaraderie among the athletes, transcending national boundaries and fostering a sense of unity.

When asked about improvements for future camps, the resounding response was an unanimous desire for longer camp durations. The thirst for knowledge, the passion for sports, and the spirit of cooperation will undoubtedly continue to propel these training camps towards even greater heights in the years to come. As the sun set on yet another successful edition of the Cooperating Nations' training camp, participants departed with unforgettable memories and strengthened bonds, eagerly looking forward to future endeavors in the world of Nordic Combined and Ski Jumping.