Snowsport England has announced changes to the management of the England Alpine Squad in a bid to offer even more support to English athletes and provide a clear pathway to help them fulfill their potential.
Snowsport England has appointed new staff into two key roles; Jo Ryding will be the new Alpine Squad Manager and Gillian Poth will be Alpine Squad Coordinator. Both roles will be supported by the Alpine Management Group and will run for a minimum of two years. Snowsport England's Talent Officer Ian Findlay will continue to work across all the snowsports disciplines, providing support and a link back to the Snowsport England Development team.
Both Jo and Gillian have lived and breathed skiing for most of their lives and will bring knowledge and passion into the two roles as they try and ensure that the English Squad athletes have the best experience possible whilst training and competing for their country. They will also ensure that the communication both within the squad and to external stakeholders is as clear and strong as possible, as well as being available to listen to and action feedback.
Snowsport England Chief Executive Tim Fawke said of the two appointments: “Snowsport England is keen to offer a clear pathway for Squad athletes and support them as much as we can so they can concentrate on their performance and meet their potential. We believe the introduction of these two posts, coupled with Jo and Gillian's skills and passion, will enable this to happen”.
Jo Ryding said: "I am looking forward to taking on the role as Alpine Squad Manager for Snowsport England over the next coming years. With experience on both sides of the fence as an athlete and a coach, I feel I can make positive changes not only in the development of the Squad but also the performance pathway for our young athletes. I will be out on the slopes at the English Alpine Championships, hope to see you there!"
Gillian Poth said: "I am delighted to be involved with supporting our talented English athletes on their ski racing pathway. I am looking forward to the challenge of my newly appointed role as Snowsport England Alpine Squad Coordinator and I endeavour to help boost communication within and outside of the squad. Please come and have a chat if you see me in Bormio next week at the 2015 English Alpine Championships."
For more information about the English Alpine Squad and Snowsport England visit www.snowsportengland.org.uk