Ski Jumping - With New Coach to Old Successes

Schmid, Freitag and Co.: Ski Jumping - With New Coach to Old Successes
The last winter was largely disappointing for German women ski jumpers. Katharina Schmid, Selina Freitag, and others fell behind the competition. With new head coach Heinz Kuttin, they aim to return to former successes. The first test awaits at the World Cup opener in Lillehammer.

During the 2022/23 season, Katharina Schmid narrowly missed winning the overall World Cup title. The plan was for the crystal globe to belong to her the following year. However, that did not happen. After the departure of head coach Maximilian Mechler, the German women's ski jumpers significantly struggled under interim coach Thomas Juffinger. While Schmid was again the best German skier, she only achieved a tenth place finish in the overall standings.

Preparation for the World Cup has included training camps in both sunny and cold conditions. Kuttin reflects positively on the summer training, stating, "We aim to contend for the top spots in the Nations Cup in the upcoming years." Additionally, he notes the integration of promising young athletes into the team.

The DSV women's team for the season will include experienced jumpers like Selina Freitag and promising newcomer Alvine Holz, who enjoyed success in junior competitions.

As the team looks forward to Lillehammer, Schmid emphasizes her affinity for the venue, stating, "If everything comes together, I can jump at the top level. It will be exciting to see if we can achieve podium places compared to other nations." Kuttin shares a similar sentiment, expressing hope for a strong team performance at the event.

The DSV roster for the women includes:
Selina Freitag (WSC Erzgebirge Oberwiesenthal)
Anna Hollandt (SC Degenfeld)
Alvine Holz (WSV Bad Freienwalde)
Agnes Reisch (WSV Isny)
Katharina Schmid (SC Oberstdorf)
Juliane Seyfarth (WSC Ruhla)

Kuttin aims to restore confidence in his athletes as they begin the new season.