History of National Ski Academy

NSA opened its doors as a full-time ski academy in Canada in 1987, with 16 students and 5 staff. Since we were the first academy, we had to convince people that we could provide the environment and program to meet the needs of student-athletes to succeed at the highest level.
Our Founders

NSA was founded in 1986 by a committed group of inspirational leaders who established the Academy, filling a void and ensuring a home to offer the integration of alpine ski racing and academic excellence for passionate alpine ski racers. Since NSA’s inception the Academy has been guided and directed by a dedicated volunteer Board who drive the strategic direction and goals, ensure the financial health and support the day-to-day operations of the Academy.
Tornaveen – Our Campus & Home History

Tornaveen was built in 1892-93 by Frank Telfer, whose brother Herbert had built Armandale, the house across Third Street on the northwest corner in 1890. Intending to outdo his brother’s grand home, Frank had local architect Fred Hodgson town design the 10,380 square foot building making it the largest and tallest home in Collingwood with 26 rooms including 14 bedrooms.
New Program Director Announced

We are pleased to announce that we have filled the newly created role of Program Director at National Ski Academy. Among many highly qualified candidates, we are excited to announce that our own Jeff Jones has been promoted to this leadership and management position.
Interview: With Head of School – Tobin Walsh

Our Head of School, Tobin Walsh was interviewed by Collingwood Today’s Maddie Johnson about National Ski Academy’s elite student athlete programs and plans for the future.
The Jurg Gfeller Award

The Jurg Gfeller Award was donated by the Wallace Family and will be presented annually at the Awards Banquet in June. The trophy designed by renowned crystal artist Mark Raynes Roberts depicts a
Escarpment Magazine

Larisa Yurkiw (NSA ’04), Canadian National Ski Team member and founder of Team Larisa Racing launched her post-racing career by interviewing NSA founder,