THE PROGRAM

Founded in 1986, in the tradition of European and American sports academies, the National Ski Academy combines academic and alpine ski racing excellence in a program designed to maximize individual potential. We recognize the importance of a strong work ethic, self-discipline, and the role they play in helping students achieve their personal and professional goals.

Our program provides the right balance of intense, competitive ski training, racing and academic studies. It allows students the freedom to pursue their careers on the slopes while managing a complete academic schedule.

The integration of these separate learning experiences is unique in that it provides the students with a little something extra - the opportunity to grow as individuals and to learn about themselves. These experiences build teamwork and interpersonal skills and develop a level of confidence that comes from realizing their personal worth. In short, the National Ski Academy helps students become stronger, more confident individuals, ready to take on life’s challenges.

The National Ski Academy has achieved great success with its acclaimed alpine ski racing program. We pride ourselves on our ability to cater to an individual’s needs. Our programs range from K2 athletes (age 13 and 14) right up to Nor Am calibre athletes.

THE SCHOOL

The Academy is housed in the historic Tornaveen Mansion. A magnificently restored facility that provides 10,000 square feet of living space. The house is complete with a renovated gymnasium, weight room, study hall, library, wireless internet access and tastefully appointed lounges. The kitchen/cafeteria opens onto a formal dining room.

A full-time chef prepares all the meals for the students. The focus is on providing healthy, balanced menus for the athletes.

Students are expected to participate in daily chores. In addition, they are encouraged to participate in community and school events, when their schedule allows. They are also encouraged to pursue their other interests such as music or art programs, outside the Academy.

The NSA students are supervised by a 24 hour in-house supervisor who is responsible for the students’ well-being and whereabouts. The supervisor ensures that the student-athletes understand and follow the Code of Conduct and that they are nurtured in a caring, orderly environment.

Students continue to maintain close family relationships by returning home during breaks and holidays and ensuring their families are kept abreast of their activities and successes.

To its students and staff, Tornaveen is much more than a historic building – it is where friendships are made and achievements realized, where lifelong skills are formed and wonderful memories are created.

Students’ schedules during the season become very hectic trying to balance athletic and academic responsibilities while maintaining age-appropriate social lives. All of these life skills will help the student athletes on their journey towards a successful, happy adult life.