Strong criticism of Austrian ski jumpers: Does coach Kuttin have to go?

“We try the best. But if it doesn't happen, then it doesn't happen.” ÖSV ski jumping coach Heinz Kuttin's perseverance slogans now contain a powerful dose of resignation. The current winter has left its mark. Hardly any top places in the World Cup, plus the embarrassing performance at the Four Hills Tournament.

Poland and Germany have long since overtaken Austria While the Austrians used to fight for places against Norway, their competitors are now called Switzerland or Japan. It's not just the Scandinavians who have long since escaped the ÖSV. Teams like Germany and the ski jumping-crazy Poles have long since left red-white-red behind them. Then there are the rebellious Slovenians, who, in contrast to Austria, have no problems with young talent.

Only the Finns have crashed worse than the ÖSV Eagles. They haven't produced any winning jumpers since Janne Ahonen and Matti Hautamäki. It's not that bad in Austria, because on good days Michael Hayböck and Stefan Kraft can still be among the world's best. What used to be the rule is now the exception. President Schröcksnadel: “No coaching discussion” Ski jumping is something special. In no other sport is mental condition so important. If the jumper is doing well, he is successful. Otherwise not. Gregor Schlierenzauer, who is one of the best of all time, had to experience this. At the age of 20 he was at the top, but now he has not been nominated for the individual competition on the large hill.

The fact that the Tyrolean is in South Korea at all is due to the lack of young talent. But little follows and so Kuttin has no choice but to rely on the tried and tested. That's what the ÖSV wants, because President Peter Schröcksnadel nips every coaching discussion in the bud: “There won't be any quick shots. We’re not throwing out the Kuttin.”

At least to the outside world, the ÖSV presents itself as a unit. Maybe Schröcksnadel is being honest about Kuttin. But maybe he doesn't want to open another construction site before the home World Cup in Seefeld. Especially since he has enough to do with all the abuse scandals involving his Alpine legends.

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Strong criticism of Austrian ski jumpers: Does coach Kuttin have to go?

For years Austria was the number one ski jumping nation. The feared ÖSV eagles have now become tame sparrows. The criticism of head coach Heinz Kuttin is not new. After the Olympic Games it could be over.

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