The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) once again placed inclusion and youth development at the heart of its actions with the Para Ski Nordic Action Day held at Europa-Park. The initiative brought together children with disabilities for a day designed not only as a sporting experience, but as a first gateway to a world that has historically presented access barriers for many young people.

Held in early December at the largest theme park in Germany, the event reflected a long-term vision: bringing winter sports closer to new generations through empathy, accessibility and the joy of movement. In a safe and adapted environment, the FIS delivered an experience that combined learning, technical guidance and a strong emotional component for those taking their first steps in Nordic skiing.

A first contact with snow designed for everyone

On December 14, 14 children with visual impairments, arm or leg amputations, and wheelchair users took part in their first Nordic skiing experience at Skitty World Nordic, the track operated by the German Ski Association within Europa-Park. For many, it was their first introduction to a snow sport, in a setting specifically designed to reduce fear, uncertainty and initial barriers.

The course, a permanent feature of the park’s winter season since 2016, was conceived as an introductory tool, with a low-threshold design that facilitates learning without prior experience. Its development was led by Georg Zipfel, former national head coach and current FIS race director for Nordic skiing, alongside Anja Haepp, with the support of Europa-Park and the German Association of Sports for People with Disabilities.

Inclusion, development and a long-term perspective

During the day, experienced coaches such as Markus Sommerhalter guided participants in an environment focused on safety and confidence. Beyond technique, the emphasis was placed on the emotional experience: discovering movement on snow, the sense of autonomy, and building a positive relationship with sport from the very first contact.

For Dimitrije Lazarovski, Director of the FIS Development Programme, initiatives like this are fundamental to the continuity of the sport. The success of the event encouraged organizers to plan a summer edition in Germany, reinforcing the idea that equal opportunities and the recruitment of new participants must be addressed on an ongoing basis to inspire the next generation of skiers.