Collaborative Spirit Shines at the 2024 FIS Development Summer Camp in Planica

Originally published in FIS on July 23, 2024

Planica beckoned, and the Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined community answered the call, gathering from all corners of the globe in Slovenia for an enriching week of training and connection. Teams from developing nations, including Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Georgia, Ukraine, Romania, Slovakia, and Hungary, teamed up with representatives from established skiing powerhouses such as Sweden, Finland, Canada, Switzerland, Italy, and France.

The weather forecast heralded a perfect week, promising sunshine and ideal conditions for ski jumping and roller skiing, much to the delight of both athletes and coaches. Everyone arrived well-prepared with plenty of water and sunscreen, ready to embrace the beautiful summer days ahead.

The schedule was packed with training sessions held on the ski jumps in Planica, Kranj, and Villach, along with workouts on the roller ski track and practice grounds. Athletes concentrated on skill development, participating in coordination drills, off-snow ski jumping exercises, and playful activities designed to enhance their abilities across different age groups. This environment fostered camaraderie, allowing athletes from diverse nations to bond and learn from one another.

The evenings were equally educational, featuring discussions on jump judging, aerodynamics, and media training. Notable athletes made guest appearances, participating in either direct or online dialogues. Among them were former World Cup ski jumper Špela Rogelj and ski flying World Cup winner Žiga Jelar, who shared valuable insights from their careers. Sandro Pertile, the Ski Jumping World Cup Director, also engaged with coaches from all participating nations, providing inspiration and guidance. These interactions proved invaluable, leaving lasting impressions on both young athletes and their coaches.

At the week’s conclusion, competitions took place on various ski jumps in the "Valley of the World Champions" and on roller skis, reflecting the hard work and progress made throughout the camp as athletes showcased their enhanced jumping and skiing abilities.

The final evening served as a fitting celebration of camaraderie and achievement, creating a memorable experience for all participants.

The hospitality provided by Hotels Rute, Dom, and Tina Flat was exceptional, playing a significant role in the overall success of the camp.

Thank you, Planica! We eagerly anticipate the 2025 camp.