Development initiatives continue to evolve at FIS
May 08, 2025·Inside FIS
Over the last month, FIS has continued the evolution of development practices with members in mind.
At the beginning of April, the team tasked with helping the growth of snow sports organized an orientation session for all National Ski Associations (NSAs), where ideas for the coming years were outlined.
A four-year plan, between 2026 and 2030, was revealed to attendees. Both the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) also delivered presentations regarding development opportunities within the winter disciplines.
FIS’ approach involves introducing more sustainable and regional activities and looking at working relationships between developed and developing NSAs.
It will effectively look to build on the success of memberships programs, FIS Plus and FIS Start, which were introduced last year. These initiatives are established for nations – both full and associate members – to receive support in growing snow sports in their respective countries.
New editions of both also took shape last month, with a continued commitment to provide sport equipment packages for developing nations looking to expand their reach.
“Over the past few months, our development team took a step back to reflect and evaluate our activities, [and] it became clear that the time for change had come,” said FIS Membership Manager, Jelena Dojcinovic.
“Our new approach focuses on more targeted, regional development across specific disciplines, while at the same time remaining committed to supporting NSAs in fostering growth and advancing education."
Coaching seminar for women
Seminars continued towards the end of April, this time focusing solely on female coaches in Alpine. Between the 21st and 25th, in collaboration with Apex2100 Academy, FIS hosted a series of practical and theoretical sessions in Tignes.
Fifteen coaches from 11 nations attended and had the chance to engage in an online session with Karin Harjo, who coaches two-time Olympic gold medallist Mikaela Shiffrin.
Karin’s deep appreciation and enthusiasm for hosting the session was infectious, reaffirming the notion that role models go a long way in breaking down barriers and encouraging more women to join and thrive in snow sports.
The reception from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, all of whom felt the event was hugely beneficial.
“[The development seminar] provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences with female coaches from different countries,” said Aygen Yurt.
“Coming together with coaches from various cultures, climates, and sporting infrastructures gave me the chance to observe the diversity in coaching approaches and how universal sporting principles are implemented in different contexts.”
Her sentiment was echoed by fellow coach Jolita Sinkune, who felt rejuvenated at the end of the event.
“[It] was a truly inspiring experience [and] and excellent opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, connect with other passionate coaches, and feel part of a supportive international community,” she told FIS.
Focus on Park & Pipe
From seminars to the snow, April also saw a Park & Pipe development camp take shape in St. Mortiz.
Seventeen athletes from 10 nations, along with nine coaches, were involved in the delivering of an event focused on providing developing NSAs with the tools to raise the ceiling of winter sports in their country.
Participants learned to train, adapt to different situations and circumstances, and grow their network while gaining invaluable experience. On the final day of the camp, several athletes were able to land new tricks as a result of applying their learning.
“Although the weather wasn’t great, the vibe certainly was,” Martijn Oostdijk, the Camp Coordinator said.
“For the 11th season in a row, FIS delivered an inspiring environment for young athletes and their coaches by sharing knowledge and creating networks that help build the sport in their region.”
