In March 2024, Ashton Salwan made a bold move that would prove pivotal in his athletic development: he aligned himself with Team Ukraine's esteemed Head Coach, Enver Ablaev. At the time, Ashton was determined to complete the 2023/24 Europa Cup series as the sole U.S. representative — a decision that required placing complete trust in a coach he had never previously worked with. From their first meeting, Enver's deep expertise in freestyle aerials, shaped by his own successful competitive career through the 2013/14 season, immediately earned Ashton's respect. Just as impactful was the warm welcome extended by the Ukrainian athletes, who embraced Ashton as one of their own and made his transition seamless.
The following month, after learning he had not qualified for the U.S. Ski Team, Ashton and his family reached out to Enver again. That conversation led to a three-month training residency in Mettmenstetten, Switzerland, where Ashton lived at the Schluechthof Agricultural School alongside Team Ukraine. Immersed in a new training environment, Ashton also gained firsthand insight into the emotional and logistical hurdles the team had faced since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Despite the ongoing crisis back home, Enver, his staff and athletes showed unwavering dedication to their sport and each other — their spirit both humbling and inspiring.
Throughout their time together, it became clear that Enver Ablaev was more than a coach. To his athletes, he was a pillar of strength — a patriarch who combined high expectations with heartfelt encouragement. He led with conviction and compassion, cultivating a culture built on accountability, camaraderie, and joy. Whether it was early-morning training or late-night ping-pong and poker games (which he often won), Enver's presence grounded the team. The result was an unshakable bond and a training culture that many outside competitors came to admire.
Moving from the water ramps of Switzerland to those in Australia, and then to the icy air of Finland in November, Ashton continued to train and travel with Team Ukraine. Six months under Enver’s watchful eye, Ashton didn’t just grow as a skier — he grew as a person. Ashton will always carry with him the lessons learned on those snowy hills and sunlit ramps, and he’ll forever be grateful to Enver — not just for the coaching, but for the kindness, wisdom, and steady leadership that made training with Team Ukraine feel like a home away from home.
