06.10.2025 The final day of ASPC Forum 2025 – Nordic Perspective in High Performance Sports was all about the future: how science, technology, and coaching come together to push athletes toward new heights of excellence. With the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics just around the corner, the sessions showed how research-driven insights and innovation are reshaping performance on the global stage. Photo: Anna Vlasoff, Suomen Valmentajat/The Finnish Coaches Assosiation Smarter Coaching, Stronger Athletes Olli Ohtonen introduced Coachtech, a universal tool that blends science with practice to provide real-time analysis and feedback. His message was simple but powerful: technology should support the coach–athlete relationship, not replace it. Road to LA 2028: How We Bridge Science and Sport in Finland Dominique Gagnon and Esa Hynynen revealed how Finland is tackling one of the biggest challenges of LA 2028: extreme environmental conditions, particularly heat. With Finnish summers already hitting 30°C for weeks at a time, they’re testing how heat stress impacts performance, recovery, and even differences between men and women. Their solution? An Environmental Exercise Physiology Program (EP2) that combines research on hypoxia, cold, and heat with practical preparation: hydration checks, cooling strategies, and two-week acclimation plans. Global Lessons in Adaptation Japan’s High Performance Sport Center shared how cultural and environmental factors shape preparation for global competitions. From circadian rhythm adjustments to managing timezone shifts, their message was clear: adaptation is as much about people as it is about science. AI in Action One of the most exciting moments came from Sprint AI, as Mikko Simon and Vernon B. Williams showed how AI can predict injuries before they happen. The demo—analyzing stride length and muscle fatigue—left the audience buzzing, but also sparked important questions about data ethics and fairness in sport. Closing Words of Gratitude & Legacy The forum wrapped up with heartfelt remarks from Simo Tarvonen, CEO of URHEA NOTC and Chair of the Organizing Committee. He expressed deep gratitude to all speakers, participants, and most especially to each and every member of the organizing committee whose dedication made the forum a success. Tarvonen highlighted how invaluable the shared expertise and time given to the ASPC Forum were, emphasizing that these gatherings are not only about knowledge exchange but also about building lasting relationships. Most importantly, Tarvonen wished that the camaraderie and connections formed during the forum would continue and prosper long after the event—a reminder that while technology and science drive progress, it is human collaboration and respect that sustain it. Tero Kuorikoski, Vice CEO of the Sports Institute of Three Campuses, then added an emotional touch at the closing ceremony, reminding everyone that “the glue that connects us is our passion and love of sports.” As a former combat athlete, he wanted to share the respect culture by leading a bow—a gesture that everyone in the room joined in, symbolizing unity and mutual respect. The closing also honored ASPC’s global spirit, as Tarvonen acknowledged the ASPC representatives and the next ASPC Global Forum host: Serbia. With Tapio Korjus at the helm, the ASPC flag was ceremonially passed forward, symbolizing the continuation of its legacy and the shared commitment to excellence across borders. The Takeaway Day 3 closed with one clear message: the future of sport is hybrid—anchored in human values, powered by science, and sharpened by technology. Excellence today isn’t just about running faster or lifting heavier. It’s about making smarter decisions, adapting to challenges, and using innovation responsibly. For athletes, coaches, and sports professionals, the road to LA 2028 isn’t just about competing—it’s about redefining what excellence means in a changing world. By Helsinki Business College
