Henry Sildaru, who recently won a silver medal in men's slopestyle at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, is set to receive a total of €70,000 as a reward for his achievement. However, the award for his father and coach, Tõnis Sildaru, will not come from the state, which typically issues such prizes. Since 2014, the Estonian Olympic Committee (EOK) has been responsible for determining the prize amounts for medalists, while the state must act in compliance with public regulations that outline how these rewards are allocated.

Tõnis Sildaru lacks formal coaching qualifications, which complicates the situation regarding the awarding of funds. Despite this, Henry Sildaru will receive a significant financial support package from Team Estonia totaling €170,400 over the next two years. The situation highlights the complexities and regulations surrounding athlete awards in Estonia, and the roles of both the EOK and governmental ministries in managing these funds.

This moment presents not only a celebration of sporting success but also raises questions about the limitations placed on awards for coaches and the relationship between athletic achievement and state support. As the EOK guides the process, it becomes clear that both athlete recognition and the governing rules must evolve to support all stakeholders in the sporting community, especially considering future Olympic prospects.