Third Generation of IBU Academy Second Level Course 25/26 Starts in Oberhof

From 14-19 September 2025, the third generation of the IBU Academy Second Level Course successfully commenced with the first education week in Oberhof, Germany. A total of 19 coaches from 17 different National Federations joined the course, showing once again the international spirit of the IBU Coach Education.

The Oberhof session marked the first of three collective weeks of the Second Level Course 25/26, featuring both theoretical and practical sessions aimed at refining coaching skills and providing advanced insights into biathlon training. With their diverse backgrounds and perspectives, the group of 8 female and 11 male coaches from 17 National Federations, enriched the collaborative atmosphere and contributed to a dynamic exchange of experiences throughout the week.

Comprehensive Week of Learning

The week offered an extensive and balanced program combining theory and practice. On the roller ski track and at the shooting range, IBU Lecturers and Educators Trond Nystad (NOR), Siegfried Mazet (FRA), and Gerold Sattlecker (AUT) led practical sessions, sharing their expertise through hands-on demonstrations and interactive guidance. Complementing these activities, Hannes Kock (GER) delivered lectures and practical exercises focused on the development, endurance, and performance optimization of junior and senior biathletes.

The course also included several expert lectures that covered important coaching topics:

• Katharina Gatterer & Cornelia Blank – Athletes' Vulnerability

• Steffen Hoos – Advanced Waxing Knowledge

• Gerold Sattlecker and Sven Fischer – Interpersonal Skills

• Judith Haudum – Nutritional Aspects in Training and Competition

Invaluable Mentoring Component

A core part of the Second Level Course is its mentoring component, providing coaches a personalized guidance and support beyond lectures. Participants were paired with a respected mentor based on their individual needs and interests. The renowned mentors who will share expertise, practical tips, and facilitate an invaluable transfer of knowledge and real-world experience to the new generation of biathlon coaches are: Matthias Ahrens (GER), Jonas Johansson (SWE), Johannes Lukas (GER), Jean-Marc Chabloz (FRA) and Alexander Inderst (ITA).

The IBU Academy is excited to continue this journey with the group as they move on to the next parts of the Second Level Course 25/26, which will continue in spring 2026.