Stöckl Reflects on a Challenging Year: "I Lost a Lot of Weight"

Stöckl Reflects on a Challenging Year: "I Lost a Lot of Weight"

Alexander Stöckl is looking back on a tumultuous year, one that was dominated by a prolonged conflict with the Norwegian ski jumping team that took a toll on his mental and physical well-being.

Despite the difficulties, Stöckl noted that they ultimately managed to reach a mutual agreement. After 13 years of working with the Norwegian Ski Association, he parted ways with the organization in May. This separation, however, was not without its challenges, as several Norwegian ski jumpers had openly criticized him in a letter addressed to the ski committee during the season, which led to Stöckl stepping back from competitions.

He expressed his disappointment that the relationship with the team could not be salvaged, but he also emphasized the lessons learned from this chapter of his career. "You have to evolve; you can never stand still," remarked the 50-year-old coach, reflecting on the necessity of growth through adversity.

Stöckl recognized that there were mistakes on both sides, yet he maintained that his intentions were always focused on the team's success. The stress from the situation took a considerable toll on him, resulting in significant weight loss. In a light-hearted moment, he quipped that he nearly weighed as little as a competitive ski jumper. Currently, Stöckl is embracing a new role as the sports director for ski jumping and Nordic combined in Poland, eager to forge ahead in his career.