Alexander Stöckl Takes on New Role in Polish Ski Jumping

Alexander Stöckl, formerly Norway's head ski jumping coach, has embarked on a new chapter in his career as he signs a two-year contract as the sports director for both ski jumping and Nordic combined with the Polish national team. In this role, he will be responsible for crafting long-term strategies in elite sports, recruitment, coach development, communication, and marketing.

This transition comes after a thoughtful deliberation period. Stöckl was approached by Polish ski jumping coach Thomas Thurnbichler earlier this spring, a proposition that piqued his interest despite his lack of experience in a sports director position.

Earlier this year, Stöckl faced criticism regarding his management approach, with some ski jumpers expressing dissatisfaction. This discontent led to a formal complaint being lodged with the ski jumping committee, which subsequently kept him from participating in several World Cup events. He later convened with the athletes, including Johann André Forfang, to address and resolve these grievances.

Stöckl's exit from his role as Norway’s ski jumping head coach became official when it was confirmed that he would not continue in that capacity beyond May 24, thereby putting an end to ongoing disputes surrounding his tenure.