Finnish sport academies and coaching centres gathered in Lahti on 6 September. They meet regularly and have created a sport network aimed at discussing mutual goals and plan best measures to fulfil them.

Their main objective is to ensure athletes a sustainable daily training in a challenging international environment that enables them to showcase at their best their potential in sport as well as in life.

“Cooperation is essential for the Finnish sport network”, said Antti Paananen, Director of the Sport Academy project. “The power of this network is that we have a fair sport debate, even though we don’t always agree”, also added.

After 4 years of training, former ski coach Reijo Jylhä praised the system and how he benefitted from it: “In my opinion, the job of a coach is all about managing the network. I take advantage from all the knowledge available through the Finnish sport network and the National Olympic Committee”.

“All activities and management are developed in networking and technology offers the possibility to exchange information easily and frequently”, concluded.

During the meeting, the 10-year activity of Päijät-Häme Sport Academy was also celebrated. Over the last years, the Academy has evolved a lot, expanding their support to athletes and the services at their disposal. The educational process was set out in line with National guidelines and in tight collaboration with institutions.