Dorothea Wierer offered advice. © Helmut Moling

112 talents take Wierer's tips to heart

The South Tyrolean Sports Aid Foundation is presenting a new winter sports team: 112 athletes from 13 winter sports will receive a total of €149.000 in support. With guidance from Dorothea Wierer, these up-and-coming talents aim to reach the top of their sport.

September 17, 2026

From: pm

The Sparkassen Academy was all about sports on Wednesday evening: At the South Tyrolean Sports Aid's "Get Together" event, the new winter sports team was officially presented. 112 young athletes came together to celebrate their inclusion in the team, exchange ideas, and take another step towards elite sports. The hall was packed – no wonder, since none other than biathlon queen Dorothea Wierer gave the young athletes tips and tricks for a successful career. She spoke candidly about the challenges of a professional career and how important it is to get back up after difficult times.

Every year, the South Tyrolean Sports Aid Foundation receives numerous applications. The best athletes in their category are supported. The performance bonus is paid out to 112 athletes who achieved impressive results in the past season. The South Tyrolean Sports Aid Foundation supports young athletes aged 15 and over and accompanies them on their journey in competitive sports.

A record sum

“What counts is performance, but we also consider social circumstances and above-average academic achievements,” explains Giovanni Podini, President of the South Tyrolean Sports Aid Foundation. “Our expert committee selects the athletes who can count on the support of the Sports Aid Foundation. Olympic disciplines and natural track luge, which has strong regional roots, are supported.”

The talents of the South Tyrolean Sports Aid program. © Helmut Moling

€149.000 will be paid out to young winter sports athletes from South Tyrol. "This is a record sum, which could only be raised through the valuable support of sponsors, donors, and public funding," said Podini. "We are extremely grateful for this."

The athletes also received congratulations and best wishes for the upcoming season from the guests present, including the President of the Sparkasse Gerhard Brandstätter, General Director Nicola Calabrò, President of the Sparkasse Foundation Stefan Pan, CONI President Alex Tabarelli, HGV President Klaus Berger, FISG Sports Director Stefan Zisser, and numerous other guests from the worlds of sports and business.