Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy - Canada has made a notable climb up the medal table, easing concerns about its standing in international sports. However, this success masks a crucial reality: the future of Canada's Olympic program remains uncertain.
Jennifer Heil, the esteemed freestyle skier and Team Canada’s Chef de Mission, highlighted the fragility of the system. "We’re nearing the end of the Vancouver 2010 legacy," she noted, pointing out the aging roster of athletes nearing the twilight of their careers.
This situation has prompted a renewed look towards Norway, the perennial powerhouse in Winter Olympics history, for potential strategies. Despite a population of just 5.6 million, Norway consistently dominates the medal count, raising the question: What’s their secret, and can Canada adopt similar methods?
Experts suggest that Norway’s success is rooted in both cultural practices and political structure. Culturally, Norwegians have a deep-seated passion for outdoor activities, especially cross-country skiing. Dionne Noordhof from Norway’s Centre for Elite Sports Research observed that children in Norway often receive their first skis as toddlers and engage in skiing activities from a young age in daycare settings.
Norway’s approach to youth sports emphasizes fun over competition. Noordhof shared that in Norway, young athletes are encouraged to enjoy the sport without the pressure of published results, a stark contrast to other countries where early competition is more intense.
Politically, Norway benefits from a streamlined sports governance structure, backed by the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund. Unlike Canada’s decentralized system with multiple layers of governance, Norway’s straightforward approach facilitates efficient management and support of sports programs.
As Canada reflects on its Olympic future, the lessons from Norway offer both inspiration and a challenge to adapt these insights within its unique context.