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JUNIORTEAM

The goal of the program is to offer lower secondary school–aged athletes the opportunity to intensify their training in Finland’s best conditions and coaching environment. The Junior Team prepares students for future alpine sports studies and is part of LSSA’s long-term development pathway towards the next steps in alpine skiing. In addition to sports training, we focus on developing skills required to grow as an athlete, including nutrition, mental coaching, and life skills.

The Junior Team trains exclusively in Finland, primarily in Levi. During the season: 1 physical training/testing camp in August–September, 8 on-snow training camps from October to April, partly combined with Mandatum Tour competitions and approximately 80 training days in total. The aim is to train extensively in Levi under excellent conditions in a cost-efficient way. During camps, daily study sessions (1.5–2 hours) are organized. Exams can also be completed during camps, helping to avoid accumulation of exams after camp periods. Study sessions take place in LSSA’s office/meeting facilities.

Application for the 2026/2027 season is now open! Submit your application by 15.4.2026.

Why and how to train?

Coach Kaisa Puttonen

COACHES

Roope Kankaanmäki
One of the high school coaches, ensuring continuity between Junior Team and upper secondary coaching.

Kaisa Puttonen
Also a high school coach, supporting alignment with LSSA’s long-term athlete development pathway.

Leevi Keränen
Brings expertise in fundamental skills, broader snow training, and athlete development.

Petri Tuomikoski
Team manager, providing overall coordination and experience to the team.

Term fee

3 000 €

including

Coaching during camps (aim: always 2 coaches present) and 4–5 competition events
Levi season ski pass
Training pass for Levi Wellness Club (with a separate personal agreement)
Training facilities provided by the Municipality of Kittilä
Helly Hansen softshell jacket or similar
Athletes are responsible for their own accommodation, travel expenses, test and lift ticket costs (outside Levi).
LSSA covers coaches’ expenses during camps and competitions.

SELECTION OF ATHLETES

Maximum of 6 athletes will be selected (born in 2011 or 2012).

Selection criteria include:

APPLICATION FOR SEASON 2026-2027

Submit a free-form application letter by 15.4.2026. Send your application to: petri.tuomikoski@edu.kittila.fi

The application letter should include at least:
Contact details (name, address, phone number, email, date of birth, guardian contact details).
Your motivation and willingness to train – describe yourself as an athlete.
Training background and possible physical test results.
School performance and grade average.
The letter can be freely formatted, as long as the above information is included.

Selected athletes will be notified by 20.4.2026.