The "selectors" are the various Norwegian coaches, listed by gender. I honesty think it's pretty much the same process followed by most federations. What we don't see here is the actual criteria to be named. Is it all objective, all subjective, a mix of both? Interesting that the Norwegians have two Canadian guys among their top coaches.
I think the timing is such that they can line up their their various training blocks, etc. Their mens speed team has recently been training in Norway with the USA speed men {those who are healthy}. They have a pretty strong working relationship.
The USST has their published objective criteria. I suppose that things will be held up this season, until we have a new Alpine Director and Mens HC in place {along with whatever other turnover in the coaching ranks may be taking place.}
But, the people who have made criteria know it. Those who have not made criteria know it. The only questions are whether they make discretionary picks, and to which teams, which independents they may be discussing firm WC starts with {they may not be....and that would be a HC decision}, and what level support that might provide for that group. Along with the costs......
We almost always announce the USST Nominations at the end of May.
BTW, the Norwegians, I hear, are formalizing a pretty detailed training arrangement to use Aspen as their North American training base. That may be men only. I'm sure we'll see more press on that soon. The Norwegians love the set up there.
I think the Norwegians really have their act together, in so many ways. Impressive. But I don't think this announcement is unusual.
