IBU Coach Education: Second Level Course Continues in Meråker

The IBU Academy successfully delivered the second week of its Second Level Coach Education Course in Meråker, Norway, bringing together 19 participants from 17 different National Federations. Following the opening week held in September in Oberhof, Germany, the program continues to provide a comprehensive and high-quality learning experience for developing biathlon coaches.

Set against the inspiring backdrop of Meråker’s renowned training facilities, the course focused on deepening participants’ knowledge across key performance areas. The week was led by experienced IBU educators Jonne Kähkönen (FIN) and Per Øyvind Torvik (NOR), who guided participants through essential topics including shooting, skiing technique, and strength training. Their sessions combined theoretical input with practical application, ensuring coaches could directly translate learning into their daily work.

The program was further enriched by a series of expert-led lectures. Guro Strøm Solli delivered insights into female athlete training, while Helen Hanstock addressed Health Management Strategies, emphasizing athlete well-being and long-term development. Lars Nygård provided a detailed overview of rifle equipment, and Alf Koksvik explored key aspects of leadership in coaching. The week concluded with a physiology session led by renowned expert Øyvind Sandbakk, offering participants a deeper understanding of performance science in biathlon.

Participants highlighted both the quality of the content and the collaborative atmosphere throughout the week. Reflecting on the course, Gerold Sattlecker, Head of the IBU Academy, noted: “It was a nice and comprehensive week of learning at a very nice place.”

The Second Level Coach Education Course will conclude with its third and final week, scheduled to take place from 21–27 June in Ruhpolding, Germany. This final module will bring participants together once more to consolidate their learning and complete the program, marking another important step in strengthening coaching expertise across the global biathlon community.