Europe has found no trace of the bear that will lead the Chinese jumpers

Igor Medved, a long-time coach in ski jumping with extensive experience coaching Slovenian athletes and leading the B-team, has been appointed to lead the Chinese national team. This marks him as the second Slovenian to take charge of a major ski jumping squad, following Jurij Radlja. Medved will work alongside Nejc Frank among other assistants. The decision comes after the Finnish Ski Association initially withdrew Medved from competition due to an incident in Pähkinäsaari, before ultimately deciding not to extend his contract with Slovenia. The International Ski Federation (FIS), which oversees international ski sports, was surprised that China had already participated in the first summer grand prix events. Traditionally, Chinese teams have avoided these competitions, opting instead to focus on winter events. By participating early, China aims to streamline its team composition and build a stronger foundation for the next four years. The International Ski Federation, known by its French acronym FIS, was established in 1924 in Chamonix, France. It serves as the highest governing body for ski sports, responsible for setting rules, organizing world cups and world championships across disciplines such as ski jumping, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding. Its primary goal is to promote ski sports globally and ensure fair conditions for all competitors. The Summer Grand Prix in ski jumping is a series of international competitions held during the summer and autumn seasons on ski jump facilities covered with plastic sheets. These events help maintain the competitive rhythm of athletes outside the winter season. They serve as excellent opportunities for testing new equipment, assessing physical readiness, and gaining experience for young athletes, as the rules and scoring system are very similar to those in the winter World Cup. Medved’s appointment follows a period of transition within the Chinese ski jumping program. His previous roles with Slovenia and Finland have given him a broad understanding of training methodologies and athlete development. His inclusion in the Chinese team reflects a strategic move to bring in expertise that can enhance performance and consistency. The involvement of assistant coaches like Nejc Frank adds depth to the coaching staff, ensuring a well-rounded approach to training and competition preparation. The decision by the Finnish Ski Association to withdraw Medved from competition highlights the challenges faced by coaches in maintaining consistent participation and support. Despite this, Medved's continued involvement with the Chinese team underscores his reputation and effectiveness in the sport. The early participation in the Summer Grand Prix indicates a proactive strategy by China to establish itself more firmly in the international ski jumping calendar. As the Chinese team prepares for upcoming competitions, the integration of Medved and his assistants will play a crucial role in shaping their performance. The FIS’s surprise at China’s early engagement suggests a shift in traditional practices, potentially opening new avenues for collaboration and competition. With the Summer Grand Prix serving as a key platform, the Chinese team is positioning itself for greater visibility and success in the global ski jumping community.