In May 2024, Ashton Salwan made a pivotal training decision that would forever alter the course of his young career: he traded the snug, familiar comforts of home for a daring solo venture into the pastoral heartlands of Switzerland — where cows outnumber cars and world-class aerialists fill the alpine air. His destination was none other than the storied Jumpin’ Freestyle Company in Mettmenstetten, Switzerland — a beacon for aerial athletes from around the globe.
Nestled within a quaint farming trade school just a short bus ride from the water ramps, Ashton’s new 3-month home offered rolling emerald pastures, cozy dorm rooms, and the kind of hearty, Swiss-cooked meals that fuel champions. His days quickly settled into a rigorous but rewarding rhythm steeped in discipline, determination, and development. Rising early, training intensively, leaping countless times into the cooling splash of the pool, and tackling conditioning sessions that tested even the toughest athletes — Ashton embraced every challenge.
Over the course of the summer, Ashton gained a newfound independence, sharpened his mindset, built confidence, and — perhaps most significantly — earned a coveted place among some of the most formidable talents in the sport.
The summer squad was a true melting pot of international prowess, a gathering of legends and emerging stars who turned every practice into a symphony of focus, intensity, and camaraderie:
Together, this international team of professional freestyle athletes crafted a vibrant tapestry of excellence, with each day offering new opportunities to absorb wisdom, refine technique, and forge lasting bonds. More than just training, it was a profound journey of immersion — where every flip and twist built sharper skills, deeper confidence, and a greater respect for this global sport community.
The summer culminated in an unforgettable highlight when Ashton made his debut at the FIS Swiss Freestyle Aerials Masters, a showcase event bringing together the sport’s finest. Amidst a cascade of rain, cheered on by his international teammates and seasoned coaches, Ashton soared — not just to perform, but to ignite a fierce determination to return even stronger.
In the end, from the peaceful solitude of rural living to the electrifying excitement at the Jumpin ramps, the summer of 2024 left an indelible mark on Ashton’s journey. Switzerland became far more than a picturesque backdrop — it became a launchpad for growth, innovation, and a broader vision of what’s possible when you step boldly beyond the familiar.
