Petter Kukkonen, the high-performance director of the Finnish Ski Association, has spent over twenty years knowing Ilkka Herola, our latest bronze medalist in the Nordic combined, and has been a long-time coach to Eero Hirvonen. His pride in their accomplishments is palpable, but Kukkonen emphasizes that the success of these athletes is a collective victory, aided by the many individuals—sports therapists, experts, and coaches—who have been involved in their journey over the years.
Reflecting on their earliest days, Kukkonen reminisced about the initial training camps held at the Vuokatti ski jumping carnival, recalling Herola as a ten-year-old, joining with his parents. He pointed out that many supporters have shared in the highs and lows of their sporting careers, creating a strong team dynamic akin to a family.
Kukkonen expressed genuine joy over Herola’s recent Olympic success, admitting he had hoped for such achievements earlier but found great satisfaction in celebrating the moment now that it has arrived. He stated, “What could be better than celebrating together and providing the Finnish people with wonderful experiences? That’s what sports are all about. Without fans and the public, we’re just spinning our wheels.”
As both a coach and a high-performance leader, Kukkonen extended heartfelt gratitude to the support teams behind the athletes. “Thank you and congratulations, truly from the heart. This is once again a medal for the entire nation of Finland,” he said.
The narrative emphasizes teamwork, persistence, and national pride, reflecting on the emotional journey that accompanies such achievements. This experience not only resonates within the sports community but also serves to inspire the wider public about the value of support, resilience, and celebration of success.