Julia Smusz was one of 20 coaches from various National Federations around the world, who participated in the second Coach Education Basic Course under the IBU Academy. The six-day course took place at the Sports Center Salzburg-Rif (AUT) and at the biathlon venue in Ruhpolding (GER) from 15th to 20th April 2023. It provided the participants with a comprehensive understanding of basic biathlon knowledge, with a mix of theoretical and practical sessions.  

Over the course of six days, Julia attended theoretical and practical sessions on skiing, shooting, applied training science, motor skills development, physiology, the coaches' soft skills, equipment, and rules and organisation. These sessions were led by renowned experts and coaches in winter sports science.         

     Julia says, "I'm really grateful that Biathlon Australia selected me for this and helped me get to the course. I have learned a lot and I'm excited to put into practice what I have learned." Julia's next steps for the course include 30h of practical work which has to be signed off by her local club, and also an online Assessment which will take place in early May. 

Julia is wished well by all of the Biathlon Australia community in completing the final stages of the Course, and it is anticipated that she will share her learnings with the other Australian Biathlon coaches and athletes in due course.