Interview: Reinhard Hes.
Interview with the coach of the German national team – Reinhardem Hessem / dpa
“Martin is in good shape”
What is the last situation before the upcoming Four Hills Tournament??
Reinhard Hes:
Adam Malysz is a definite favourite, there is no doubt about it. He will definitely not lose shape before the competition. I also believe, there is a group of players, that may prevent him from winning. It includes e.g. Sven Hannawald. Steven is in good shape. It lacks some stability, but it can improve until the start of the competition in Obersdorf.
What role does Martin Schmitt play in this situation??
Reinhard Hes:
Martin recently decided to change his shoes. Also jumps on harder skis. He trained a lot and he put everything together well. He was examined in Freiburg with Dr. Huber and now I can tell, that Martin is in good shape. Something wasn't right lately, and I was helpless. I have already seen improvement in Predazzo. I couldn't criticize him, because Martin didn't make any mistakes, yet he didn't jump very far.
How did your players spend Christmas??
Reinhard Hes:
Together with families. We decided, that we'll all take a little break from jumping. On Friday we meet in Oberstdorf.
What result would be satisfactory for you??
Reinhard Hes:
I would be glad, that one of my players would be on the podium and that three of my teammates would be in the top 15. Sven Hannawald should be on the podium, although I'm not ruling it out, I'm an optimist, that this honor can also go to Martin Schmitt. Of course, we will also fight for top positions in all competitions.
What do you expect from Stephan Hocke's performance?
Reinherd Hes:
Stephan surprised us with great results. He has possibilities, to achieve even more. At his place, unlike Martin Schmitt, I still see some tiny errors and I am surprised, that despite this, achieves such good results.
He is a rather short and light player. Does it matter?
Reinhard Hes:
In my opinion, the previous attempts to equalize the chances of all ski jumpers by regulating the length of the skis, suit permeability, even better fit to the silhouette of the players were accurate. In addition to the tall Martin Schmitt, players of similar stature also jump, jak Janne Ahonen, Stefan Horngacher, Risto Jussilainen czy also Noriaki Kasai. The truth is, that the smaller ones – Simon Ammann has recently jumped into this group – they're doing a little better.
The Germans haven't been fast on the inrun lately, why?
Reinhard Hes:
Previously, we sanded the edges of the skis, which gave the players an advantage over their rivals. Now is different, because the skis have been polished by the manufacturer. Those who are responsible for preparing the equipment in their teams, they also do a great job.