In a significant shift for the Polish ski jumping team, Thomas Thurnbichler will step down as head coach, with Maciej Maciusiak set to take over following the conclusion of the current season. The announcement was made by Adam Małysz, the president of the Polish Ski Association, during a press conference on March 28, 2025.
Thurnbichler, who has been at the helm since April 2022, will officially part ways with the team after the World Cup tournament in Planica this weekend, marking the end of a notable era in Polish ski jumping.
Małysz explained that the decision to change coaches was made after thorough discussions with both the athletes and the coaching staff. "Considering the atmosphere within the team and prioritizing the well-being of the national squad, it was decided to conclude our collaboration with Thomas Thurnbichler as the head coach of the A team," Małysz stated, as reported by skijumping.pl.
The upcoming competitions in Planica will serve as a farewell for Thurnbichler, who has played a pivotal role in the development of the team over the past three years. He has expressed gratitude for the opportunity to coach the Polish athletes, stating, "It has been an incredible journey, and I am thankful for the support from the fans and the entire ski jumping community in Poland."
As the team prepares for their final events of the season, they will compete in two individual competitions on March 28 and March 30, 2025, along with a team event on March 29. The lineup for the individual competition includes five Polish jumpers: Piotr Żyła, Kamil Stoch, Paweł Wąsek, Aleksander Zniszczoł, and Jakub Wolny. Notably, Dawid Kubacki did not qualify for the upcoming events.
The decision to appoint Maciej Maciusiak as Thurnbichler's successor signals a new direction for the Polish ski jumping team. Maciusiak, who has served as Thurnbichler's assistant, is expected to bring fresh energy and strategies to the squad. Małysz emphasized the importance of continuity in leadership, stating, "Maciej has been integral to our coaching staff, and we believe he is the right person to lead the A team into the next Olympic cycle starting with the 2025/2026 season."
The upcoming World Cup tournament in Planica not only marks the end of the season but also serves as a platform for the athletes to showcase their skills and potentially secure their spots for the next Olympic Games. As the competition unfolds, excitement is palpable among fans and athletes alike, with many eager to see how the team will perform under the leadership of Maciusiak.
In recent months, the Polish ski jumping team has faced challenges, including fluctuating performances and injuries among key athletes. However, the team has shown resilience, with several jumpers achieving personal bests throughout the season. The transition in coaching staff comes at a crucial time, as the team aims to build momentum heading into the Olympic season.
Thurnbichler's departure has sparked discussions among fans and pundits regarding the future of Polish ski jumping. Many supporters are hopeful that Maciusiak's approach will reinvigorate the team and lead to continued success on the international stage. As the team gears up for the final competitions, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and hope.
Overall, the upcoming World Cup events in Planica will not only determine the season's final standings but also serve as a poignant farewell for Thurnbichler, who has contributed significantly to the growth of ski jumping in Poland. With Maciusiak stepping into the role of head coach, the Polish ski jumping team is poised for a new chapter filled with potential and ambition.
