After surprise bronze in Beijing, Canada’s ski jumpers continue rising despite troubles of success

As Canada’s ski jumping coach, Janko Zwitter faced a pivotal decision in 2021. With the closure of the final ski jumping hill in Canada, he had to choose between integrating with the American team or centralizing training in Slovenia. Opting for the latter, Zwitter’s decision paid off with a surprising mixed-team bronze at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.

Fast forward to today, less than a year away from the Milan Olympics, the Canadian team remains in Slovenia, but significant changes have taken place. Zwitter acknowledges the challenges of maintaining team cohesion and competitiveness, especially as individual successes have emerged within the team.

The upcoming Nordic world championships in Trondheim, Norway, present the next opportunity for the Canadian ski jumpers to showcase their skills. Since the Olympics, athletes like Alexandria Loutitt, Abi Strate, and Nicole Maurer have made significant strides in their performances, garnering podium finishes and world championship titles.

Despite the team’s success, Zwitter faces challenges beyond the hill as he navigates the dynamics of a team with varying levels of achievement. The divide between medalists and non-medalists can strain team unity, requiring careful management and personal attention from the coach.

Drawing inspiration from the legendary “Crazy Canucks” era of Canadian alpine skiing, Zwitter aims to instill a sense of calm and focus in his ski jumpers. Known as the “Calm Canucks,” the team embodies a spirit of tranquility and precision in their pursuit of excellence.

Slovenia has proven to be an ideal training ground for the Canadian ski jumpers, offering ample opportunities for growth and development. With support from organizations like Own The Podium, the team has thrived in their new environment, honing their skills and maturing as athletes.

Elevated expectations surround the Canadian ski jumpers as they target Olympic medal contention in both the large hill and normal hill events. With a track record of exceeding expectations, the team is poised to continue their success on the world stage, fueled by a strong belief in their potential to win.

As the team prepares for the upcoming challenges, Zwitter and his coaching team, including Max Gartner, continue to guide and inspire the athletes towards their goal of becoming the best in the world. Through dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief, the Canadian ski jumpers are poised to make their mark at the highest levels of competition.