Hello US Ski Jumping Community,

As we close the book on another season for the US Ski Jumping Team, it is time
to reflect and review the past year.  It was a very tough one, but much closer
than you may think.  That being said, the difference that we need, as a Nation,
to get from "close" to winning, is clear.  
In the past 11 years of coaching, and especially the past 4 years of
internationally coaching the US Nordic Combined and Jumping teams, I have
learned so much.  From coaching and directing at the club level, to  seeing what
it takes to finally break through and win the first ever World Championship with
Johnny Spillane in 2003, to the grind of the world cup and not making cuts with
talented jumpers.  I observe all of the other nations and programs, and see what
we are up against.  My good friends out on the road (since there are no
Americans), are the coaches for most of the "superpower" nations; Finland,
Norway, Austria, Switzerland, etc...  We often talk of where the US is, and what
it will take to be a contender.   
I have put together a proposal, and let my bosses at the USST know.  It is a
comprehensive package outlining exactly what we need to be a top nation in this
extremely competitive sport.  Starting in the clubs and Jr. Development, to
Womens ski jumping, the FIS cup and Continental Cup tours, and finally the A
team.  It addresses where we are right now, and where we can expect to be in the
coming years, with this package.  It includes all of the necessary staff; Head
coach, assistant coaches, regional coaches and development teams, as well as
support staff; wax techs, physiotherapists, sports psychologists, nutritionists,
etc.  As well as our exposure to our European competitors and enviornment; not
only in going there to train with athletes and coaches, but brining some of the
top jumpers and teams over here for periods.  
All of the top nations have these essential parts to their successful programs. 
My plan is not only to catch up to them, but to surpass them in what they dont
have; an even more streamlined development program, more innovation on the
technological side, and that good old American attitude.    
This package will take a major investment from the USST, the athletes, as well
as each of you.  From money, to media, to belief and support, it will take a
100% from us all.  I believe and have witnessed, that is the only way we can
expect results in this complex sport.  I believe in this so much, that I have
put an ultimatum on the proposal; fund it and Im in, but if not, if the USST and
the community can not give us a legitimate chance out there, I cannot continue. 
I have put 100% of my life, blood, sweat, and tears into the vision of the USA
standing on top of that podium, and can not continue unless we are supported
100% to reach that vision.
I know that athletes from the USA can win, I was lucky enough to be a part of
that, but I also know what it takes for us to win, and that is what Im willing
to lay my career on the line for.  

Thanks to each and every one of you.  Weather you are an athlete, coach, parent,
official, or supporter, you are part of this dream in the USA.

Corby Fisher
Head Coach 
US Ski Jumping Team