The Alpine Insurance Alberta World Cup Academy announced today that Nicole Gilman will be leading its program as the Head Coach of its NDTC in Canmore. In addition, continuing the success of its post-secondary Calgary based training program, the Academy is pleased to welcome Jouni Pitkänen as its Development Coach in Calgary. Lastly, after a tremendous 2021-22 season, the Academy is thrilled to welcome back Tormod Vatten as High Performance Coach in Canmore.
With NCAA race experience, a solid background in Sport Physiology and leadership experience in both Canada and the US, Nicole will be a natural to continue to build on the successes of the Academy’s
current program. “I am beyond thrilled to be leading the academy program and to be working with a great team of coaches to help athletes achieve their goals and become the best athletes that they can be. I am excited for the possibilities of a strong team culture and I think that the academy has a unique potential by bringing so many dedicated athletes together in one place; I look forward to seeing what we can achieve together over the coming years” said Nicole Gilman, Head Coach.
Jouni will be joining us from Finland, where he coached the U18 National Team and completed his education in Sport Coaching. “I am looking forward to working with athletes and other staff in Canada. My new role has a lot of new and familiar things from my previous positions. I can’t wait to help athletes reach their goals and dreams!” said Jouni Pitkänen, Development Coach.
Tormod will continue to work with athletes as the Academy’s High Performance
Coach. He has been diligently working to ensure a smooth transition for our new coaching staff and athletes, building a plan from the Academy successes this year. “I am really excited for a new year with The Academy, and starting to work with new colleagues with different backgrounds. I am ready to start a new season soon with good memories of good social vibe and great results for the team both internationally and domestically last year where Nationals in Whistler was the cherry on top!” said Tormod Vatten, High Performance Coach.
The Academy is thrilled to welcome its coaching staff for the 2022-23 season and build on the legacy provided by coaches and athletes who have taken part in its activities since its inception in 2008.