In Episode 68 of the DEB-Podcasts “Coach The Coach” Let's delve into the fascinating world of a woman who has shaped international skiing for over three decades: AGneta Platter, currently Head Coach for Development & Conditioning in the Performance Group of Ski Racing Club Suvretta St. Moritz. Hardly anyone combines as much sports science expertise, practical coaching experience and international perspective as she does.
As a result: COACH THE COACH, EPISODE 68 WITH AGNETA PLATTER
From her successful start in the Swedish World Cup team, through stints in Italy, Canada and Austria, to her current role in Swiss young talent and athlete development – Agneta has not only mentored world-class athletes, but also honed her own philosophy: "Good skiers are made in the summer!"
A central part of the conversation revolves around how her training philosophy has evolved since the 90s and to what extent she trains athletes differently in 2025 than at the beginning of their careers. She repeatedly emphasizes the importance of keeping long-term health in mind and ensuring that athletes do not suffer any physical damage from their active careers later in life. This principle continues to guide her work today.
Since Agneta is currently working in the Young Talent program, Karl also talks to her about early specialization and how she assesses this trend. Their discussion also touches on the recurring question of what factors distinguish those athletes who ultimately reach the absolute top of the world rankings, compared to those who, despite their talent, don't break through. Agneta contextualizes these differences based on her extensive experience and provides insights into typical developmental trajectories and mental as well as physical prerequisites.
Another topic is injuries and how to restore confidence in the bodies of both young and experienced athletes after setbacks. Agneta describes the importance of clear structure, patience, and psychological safety in this process. The discussion becomes particularly interesting when she compares the different countries where she has worked. She talks about how different training cultures can be and where she, as a woman on the coaching team, was treated or perceived differently.
This episode offers a glimpse into those invisible months and processes of summer training that are crucial for success or failure in winter. It demonstrates the importance of mental strength, long-term development, and modern conditioning techniques, and how athletes can maintain their performance levels for many years.
Furthermore, the conversation offers numerous additional insights from three decades of top-level sport, clearly demonstrating how much experience and reflection lies behind Agneta's work.