School-based recruitment drive boosts youth interest in Norwegian biathlon

The Norwegian Biathlon Association has reported encouraging results from its Targeted School Recruitment Project, an initiative designed to explore new ways of engaging children in the sport while promoting more active school days.

The project was developed in response to a steady decline in participation among older youth athletes. Over the past decade, the number of licensed biathletes aged 13 and above has dropped from 1,600 in the 2015/2016 season to 1,200 in 2025/2026. Analysis identified several contributing factors, including varying levels of club readiness, limited access to venues and equipment, and the availability of qualified coaches.

To address these challenges, the federation adopted a nationwide approach. The project aims to reach all 15 biathlon regions in Norway, prioritising areas based on population size and focusing particularly on clubs that have seen reduced participation in recent years. A key priority is to act early in order to retain key personnel and maintain activity at club level.

At the centre of the initiative are school visits, where children are introduced to biathlon through short, structured sessions. Each class takes part in a 45-minute activity, with up to six classes participating during a single school day. Sessions begin with a brief introduction and safety guidance before moving quickly into practical activities, including laser shooting.

The Norwegian Biathlon Federation supports delivery by providing three to four instructors, along with laser equipment and additional materials designed to create an engaging and enjoyable experience. The visits also serve to promote local clubs, helping to strengthen connections between schools and community sport.

Recruitment is built into the format of each session. In the final minutes, instructors present upcoming “biathlon school” opportunities organised by local clubs. Each child receives information to take home, allowing them to register quickly. Organisers report that holding these follow-up activities within a week of the school visit significantly improves uptake.

Results from the 2025/2026 season highlight the impact of the programme. A total of 43 schools were visited, supporting 30 biathlon clubs and reaching 3,906 children. Of the 700 children who later attended biathlon school, 290 were recruited directly through the project.

The initiative is seen as an important step in strengthening grassroots participation and raising awareness of biathlon across Norway, with further information available via the national registration platform.