Elstraer ski club is fighting for young talent: Where is the snow?

Elstraer ski club is fighting for young talent: Where is the snow?

In a world in which skiing is coming under increasing pressure due to unfavorable weather conditions and a decline in membership, the Grün-Weiß Elstra sports club particularly stands out. Last season, the children of the Schwarzenberg club did not have the opportunity to go out on the slopes often: they only skied twice. Trainer Susanne Scharntke speaks of a challenge here, because the Nordic skiers are often forced to travel to the nearby Czech Republic, where the cross-country ski trails are more guaranteed to have snow. In comparison, the Alpines have to travel even further to find optimal conditions. MDR reports that the club's ski department, which has existed for 73 years, makes great efforts to preserve the sports and introduce children to skiing, even if this is not always possible on site.

The club receives particular support from committed parents who are actively involved in club life. They organize events and actively help with competitions. The regular excursions, be it boating or climbing, strengthen the feeling of community and bring a breath of fresh air to the club's activities. Barbecue parties and training camps are also always very popular. At larger events, the club not only improves community interaction, but also provides food, such as at the Elstra pottery market, where the proceeds go towards entry fees, equipment such as skis and youth work.

Challenges in youth sports

The decline in the number of members in the German Ski Association highlights another aspect. Since 2012, the age groups under six have recorded a decline of 60 percent. In addition, the numbers up to the age of 18 have also fallen by around 20 percent. DSV Alpine director Wolfgang Maier attributes this to the effects of the pandemic. Thomas Braun, responsible for sports development at the DSV, also points out a declining snow guarantee and an image problem for skiing. These circumstances contribute to fewer and fewer children being exposed to snow sports - a worrying trend. Deutschlandfunk makes it clear that the lack of school ski trips also plays a role, as it means children do not have the opportunity to get to know the sports.

The DSV calls for more flexible training strategies in order to better adapt to the snow conditions. It would be conceivable to use indoor ski facilities in low mountain ranges to discover and promote talent. But the ecological footprint of traveling to the ski slopes is also criticized. The increased demands on equipment also put a strain on many families, especially when you consider the financial possibilities of working with young talent. Committed trainers are needed here to counteract the declining number of young athletes and to promote talent.

The look ahead

The club is firmly determined to tackle the existing challenges. Despite the difficult circumstances, Grün-Weiß Elstra does not want to increase membership fees in order to support families with several children. Volunteering is our top priority. The Schwarzenberglauf, which enters its 27th round on September 21st, promises more than 300 participants and shows how strong the community is and how great the children's joy in skiing remains. Children like Christoph and Finja emphasize the friendships and the fun of exercise that are conveyed in the club.

Given the tense situation in skiing, it is encouraging to see how clubs like Grün-Weiß Elstra are committed to the future and looking after their young talent. The community and the fun of skiing are the priority, no matter how challenging the times are. A positive example of how sport can thrive even under difficult conditions.