AJ Ginnis Recruits New Talent for GreSki Staff
Featured image Thomas Woolson, Magnus Andersson, AJ Ginnis and Primoz Finzgar Medal photo GEPA pictures
AJ Ginnis’s Remarkable Journey
AJ Ginnis has become a notable figure in Alpine skiing, especially after earning the first World Championship medal for Greece in a winter Olympic sport. His journey from the US Ski Team to representing Greece, a country better known for its Mediterranean beauty than ski slopes, has been inspiring. Despite numerous knee injuries and setbacks, Ginnis has shown resilience and determination, making significant strides in his skiing career.
A New Coaching Team
Ginnis has recently revamped his GreSki staff, creating new dynamics. The new head coach is Magnus Andersson, a Swede with a stellar record. Andersson previously found success with the Swedish men’s team and had a notable tenure as the Head US Women’s World Cup tech coach. He stepped down this spring due to limited growth opportunities within the US organization. Andersson, excited about this new role, said, “When AJ called me, it felt right. He’s a hard worker, used to doing things on his own, and that independence is something I admire and look forward to nurturing.”
Reuniting with Old Friends
Thomas Woolson, Ginnis’s close friend from Green Mountain Valley School and Dartmouth College, is joining the team. Woolson has been coaching on the Women’s World Cup Speed circuit and stepped in to assist GreSki when his athlete was injured early last season. Woolson shared his excitement, saying, “I’ve been following AJ’s journey closely and am thrilled to be officially part of the team. Magnus brings a wealth of experience and a positive culture, which I believe will help AJ reach new heights.”
Woolson also emphasized the strong bond he shares with Ginnis, adding, “It’s amazing to work with a close friend. AJ and I have pushed each other for years, and now we can channel that energy into achieving something great together.”
Technical Expertise
Andersson has also recruited Slovenian ski technician Primoz Finzgar to join the team. Finzgar previously worked with Andersson in Sweden and brings extensive experience and technical prowess. Working with Magnus again and being part of AJ’s journey is a fantastic opportunity. Together, the team will bring new ideas and ensure AJ has the best equipment to succeed.
This trio aims to infuse new energy into the already successful GreSki program.
First Training Camp in Whittenburg, Germany
The newly formed team is two days into their first training camp at the indoor Ski Hall in Wittenberg, near Hamburg, Germany. This initial phase is crucial for building team cohesion and setting the foundation for the upcoming season. Ginnis is optimistic about the future, stating, “Having Magnus and Thomas on board, along with Primoz’s technical skills, gives me confidence that we can achieve great things. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together.”
Andersson echoed this sentiment, saying, “The first days have been great. The synergy within the team is already strong, and we are on a good track. It’s an exciting start to what I believe will be a very successful season.”
Looking Ahead
As the only World Cup athlete on his GreSki team, Ginnis’s commitment and the support of his new support staff are vital. The team’s collaborative spirit and shared goals create a promising outlook for the upcoming World Cup and World Championship season and beyond. Ginnis continues to break new ground for Greek snow sports, with his eyes set on more podium finishes and historical achievements.
Woolson concluded, “We’re just getting started, but the potential is immense. With this team, the sky’s the limit for AJ and GreSki.”