CALGARY, AB –Sept 1, 2025– Ski Jumping Canada today announced the exciting addition of two prodigious talents, Tarik VanWieren (Calgary, Alta.) and Mitchell Penning (King City, Ont), to its National Development Team. This pivotal announcement underscores the nation’s commitment to nurturing its next generation of ski jumping champions, aiming squarely at future Olympic podiums.
The selection of VanWieren and Penning is a testament to their exceptional dedication, talent, and performance on the national and international competitions. Both athletes have demonstrated the kind of competitive spirit and technical acumen that bodes well for Canada’s standing in the demanding world of ski jumping.
Tarik VanWieren, a product of Calgary’s ski jumping program, he now is training with the National team in Slovenia and has been a consistent standout in recent FIS competitions. His powerful take-off and calm, confident flight have caught the eye of national coaches.
Joining him will be Mitchell Penning 17, whose dynamic style and fearless approach have made him a compelling figure on the junior circuit. Hailing from Ontario, and training at Lake Placid, Penning’s rapid progression has been and we’re thrilled to have him on board.
The Development Team serves as a crucial stepping stone, providing these young athletes with enhanced coaching, sport science support, and access to international training and competition opportunities. It’s where raw potential begins its transformation into world-class performance, laying the groundwork for future Olympic and World Cup success.
“This is an incredibly exciting moment for Ski Jumping Canada,” said Todd Stretch, High Performance Director. “Tarik and Mitchell represent the bright future of our sport. Their inclusion in the Development Team is a clear signal of our investment in homegrown talent. We are committed to providing them the opportunity and skills, build their confidence, and ultimately, represent Canada with distinction on the global stage.”
Both VanWieren and Penning are eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The journey to the Olympic Games is a long and arduous one, but with the dedication of athletes like Tarik VanWieren and Mitchell Penning, and the strategic support of Ski Jumping Canada, the future looks incredibly promising for Canadian ski jumping.
About Ski Jumping Canada: Ski Jumping Canada is the national governing body for ski jumping in Canada, dedicated to the development and promotion of the sport from grassroots to high performance. Its mission is to foster a culture of excellence, support athlete development, and achieve international success.
