Sports Academy
Where excellence meets wellbeing
At HIF, sport is more than competition – it’s a way of learning, growing, and thriving. Our campus in the heart of the Engadin Alps gives young athletes the chance to train at the highest level while developing the resilience, balance, and self-awareness they need for life.
We believe that psychological safety and wellbeing is a winning strategy. That means combining elite coaching and world-class facilities with an environment that values courage, connection, and care. Whether on the slopes, in the classroom, or during outdoor challenges, our athletes learn to manage pressure, bounce back from setbacks, and build skills that last far beyond their sporting careers.
This unique approach has produced more than 25 Youth Olympic Games participations and 28 Winter Olympic appearances – but it has also shaped confident, grounded young people ready for the future.
8:1
Athlete:Coach Ratio
What we offer
In winter, the campus offers direct access to the alpine ski resort of Scuol Motta Naluns (2,146 metres elevation), featuring thrilling descents, as well as a dynamic cross-country ski trail that begins right next to the school. In summer, the surrounding mountains transform into a playground for climbing, mountain biking, and trail running.
With this unique setting, our tailored programmes help students balance academics and athletics with confidence and clarity. We meet every athlete where they are – whether they are aiming for the podium or simply want to make sport part of their everyday life. Above all, we believe that motivation and enjoyment are the key drivers of success – both in athletics and academics.
For competitive athletes
- Tailored training programmes for skiing, biathlon, snowboarding, and freestyle disciplines, fully integrated with academic schedules.
- Early talent development starting from entry to HIF, giving young athletes a significant advantage in skill and confidence.
- Comprehensive support including performance tracking, personalised coaching, and regular progress reviews.
- High-level competition pathways, from regional events to international championships.
For all HIF students
- Guided athletics training twice a week with a personal coach, regardless of performance level.
- Access to a spectacular weight and gymnastics rooms year-round for a small annual fee.
- Opportunities to explore sports like climbing, mountain biking, and trail running in the summer months.
Support to succeed
Care and recovery
- On-campus therapy room for recovery, injury prevention, and overall wellbeing.
- Partnership with the Lower Engadine Health Centre, including access to physiotherapists, doctors, and specialists.
Academics and athletics
- All Sports Academy programmes can be combined with any HIF academic track. Our personalised programmes and teaching practices ensure that sports and academics compliment and support each other.
- Admission includes a coach evaluation, health questionnaire, and certified physical fitness test.
Our swiss-ski labels
At HIF, I laid the foundation for all subsequent successes in my career.
Nevin Galmarini, Olympic Champion in Alpine Snowboarding and HIF Alumni
