Announcement | Coaches Clinics Starting on a High Note

Announcement | Coaches Clinics Starting on a High Note

REGISTRATION IS NOW LIVE, PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO REGISTER AND DETAILS FOR THE CLINICS

 

Nordic ski coaches, this one is for you!

 

Finn Sisu welcomes coaches of all levels from across the Midwest and beyond to our Coaches Clinics Series. These clinics focus on unifying, updating and expanding the training of ski coaches through highly experienced speakers from around the world, open discussions, and practical demonstrations. The success of Nordic skiers, from junior racers to Olympians alike, begins with informed, expert coaches. 

Our first clinic centers on introducing coaches and programs here in the US to the ever-successful European approach. A strong foundation is required in training, and as such we’ve invited a Finnish coach and researcher at the leading edge of snow sport training, Olli Ohtonen. Please read his brief introduction below: 

I have a history of being a cross-country skier myself. I was a professional skier for approx. 10 years and was part of a Finnish national ski team. I participated in one Olympics (Torino 2006) and two World Championships (Val di Fiemme 2003 and Oberstdorf 2005) with best positions around 20th place in WC level races.  

After I retired from XC career (2010) I graduated with a PhD in sports science and biomechanics as my major. My PhD is concerned about biomechanics of skating skiing in various speed and fatigue states. 

I have been working as a sprint coach in Finnish national ski team in 2013-2018.  

At the moment, I’m working as development manager in University of Jyväskylä, Vuokatti Sports Technology Unit and as a R&D-manager for National Olympic Training Center Vuokatti-Ruka in the same location. My job is to work in the interface of science and practice and to create solutions to aid snow sports coaches and athletes to better results with different methods.  

But my passion is coaching, and I have had several athletes for whom I have worked as a personal coach since 2007. Most successful athlete is Iivo Niskanen who I have been coaching for eleven years since 2013.  

 

Clinic 1 Overview 

Olli plans on two clinic types: lecture and on roller ski practical training.

 

Sunday, April 7th - Lecture 

Olli will detail his studies, coaching style, proven results, and what is being done in Europe to produce successful athletes at the highest level. He will also be leading some bounding exercises. 

This session will take 2-3 hours in the early afternoon (start time around 3pm). Light snacks will be provided by Finn Sisu. 

Bring with you:

  • Note taking supplies
  • Bounding poles (classic poles work too)
  • Water
  • Athletic clothes and running shoes
    •  

 

Tuesday, April 9th – Roller Ski Practical 

Olli will explain, demonstrate, and ask you to participate in various training techniques, drills, and coaching strategies that apply to roller skiing and on-snow skiing. 

This session will take 1½ - 2 hours in the late afternoon/early evening (start time 5-6pm). You're expected to bring your own skate roller skis and safety equipment. 

 

Next Steps 

This first set of clinics will require registration with a fee of $125. We will be adapting our venue for these events based on the initial interest of the coaches planning to participate.

 

If you or your team are unable to cover the cost of these clinics but you would still like to attend, please do not hesitate to reach out to us because we believe coaches' education should be accessible to everyone. 

Registration is now live, please read more about it here.

Please direct all questions to [email protected] or call us at 651-645-2443 and ask for Rebecca.