Regional Basic Course 2025 in Sapporo, Japan

Advancing Biathlon Coaching in Asia

The IBU Academy successfully concluded its Regional Basic Course, held from 22 to 27 July 2025 in Sapporo, Japan. Bringing together 17 coaches from Japan, Korea and China, this intensive course delivered high-level coaching educational and practical tools, tailored to meet the needs of Asian coaches. With a clear focus on empowering local coaching talent, the course marked an important step toward closing the knowledge gap in biathlon between Asia and Europe.

Under the expert guidance of IBU lecturers Ilario Maddalin (ITA), Luca Bormolini (ITA) and Dr. Dagmara Gerasimuk (POL), the course covered key areas of modern biathlon coaching methodology, planning, and athlete development. IBU Assistant Instructors Sari Maeda (JPN) and Myeongchul Im (KOR) contributed with valuable regional insights, further enriching the learning experience.

The course employed a hybrid learning model, with participants engaging in tasks through the Learning Suite. This approach blended online education with practical, hands-on training sessions, ensuring a thorough understanding of biathlon coaching. To accommodate the diverse linguistic backgrounds of the attendees, simultaneous translation was provided enabling full participation and comprehension of the course material.

Cultural Exchange & Regional Cooperation

Beyond the classroom, the course fostered a unique cultural exchange, strengthening collaboration among coaches from different countries. Team-building activities and networking opportunities enabled participants to share experiences, challenges, and best practices, fostering further collaboration and cooperation between coaches across the region.

During the Course, Dagmara Gerasimuk, IBU Development Director met with NF Japan President Hiroyuki Deguchi and Team Leader Shigeru Yagamuchi to discuss future development strategies for biathlon in Japan. This high-level dialogue underscored the shared commitment to advancing biathlon in Japan and across wider Asian region.

“Regional Basic Course in Japan was a remarkable week of learning, growth, and connection-building, laying a strong foundation for the future of biathlon coaching in Asia,” said Dagmara Gerasimuk, IBU Development Director

The IBU Academy extends its sincere appreciation to the Japan Biathlon Federation, and especially Toyoki Goto for their exceptional hospitality and outstanding organization. A heartfelt thanks goes also to all participants, whose dedication, enthusiasm, and collaborative spirit made the course a true success. Their commitment reflects a bright and promising future for biathlon coaching and athlete development across Asia.

Looking Ahead: Regional Basic Courses Continue This Summer

As part of its ongoing commitment to grassroots coaching development, the IBU Academy will continue the Regional Basic Course series with two additional editions later this summer in:

• Croatia (24–29 August 2025): This course will welcome coaches from Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina

• Poland (1–6 September 2025): Coaches from Poland, Slovakia, and Lithuania will participate in this session.