Polish Ski Jumping Team Faces Tough Times: 'Questions Arise in Our Minds'

The article, originally in Polish, focuses on the state of the Polish ski jumping team. In a segment of the program Misja Sport, lead jumper Paweł Wąsek discusses the current mental and competitive challenges he and his teammates face.

Wąsek stresses that he completely trusts coach Thomas Thurnbichler and believes that the plan they set out in April is working. He also reflects on how, after unsatisfactory results, negative thoughts and external pressures can creep in, leading to comments that might later be regretted. He criticizes the media for often amplifying these situations and turning them into controversies, although he insists that within the team everyone is focused, disciplined, and following the coach’s instructions.

The interview also touches upon the psychological aspects of competing – with the team utilizing a sports psychologist to help deal with the stresses of high-level competitions. Wąsek, who has experienced the intensity of fighting for a podium finish, recounts how competitions in Zakopane, with increased media attention and a larger crowd, were particularly stressful compared to other events like in Oberstdorf.

Overall, the article portrays a candid look into the psychological and competitive pressures of international ski jumping, while affirming unity and trust within the Polish team despite the surrounding media hype.