Rufener to leave Swiss-Ski at season's end

The Swiss Ski team has announced head coach Martin Rufener will not continue his contract beyond this season. Rufener will reportedly accept a position as CEO of Swiss Jet. A long term coach – including a stint with the U.S. team – Rufener had been in his current position since 2004.

“We lose a very successful and effective discipline leader,” said Swiss Competitive Sports chief Dierk Beisel. “Martin took over the team at a very difficult time,” and has, he said, “achieved great things.”

Beisel said the ski federation wanted to keep Rufener on through the 2014 Olympic Games at least, but said “Swiss-ski could not keep up with the whole package from the private sector.”

A search for a successor is underway.

“First, it is now the current season and the upcoming Alpine World Ski Championships,” said Swiss-Ski President Urs Lehmann, “with Martin Rufener and his team to challenge successfully.”

Lehmann offered his best wishes to Rufener in his new position.-hm

Rufener photo by GEPA