Media Release: International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF)
30 September 2024
It is with great pleasure and pride to inform you that today we have launched the IBSF Academy, which offers education for the various stakeholder groups of the IBSF and is a platform to transfer knowledge.
In collaboration with the World Academy of Sport, the IBSF has been working intensively over the past months to develop the structure, concept, and content of the Academy.
In this initial phase, courses tailored specifically for athletes and officials will be available, including an introduction to bobsleigh and skeleton sports, rules, as well as courses on safeguarding and athlete development. More online and in-person courses for coaches, mechanics, event organizers, and administrators will follow in the coming months.
“The IBSF Academy is a unique platform that offers development and growth opportunities for all aspects of our sports. We are proud to provide courses and additional resources to advance bobsleigh and skeleton at all levels,” said IBSF President Ivo Ferriani and added:
“Development and education are crucial for the sustainable future of our sports. We recognize the extensive expertise and knowledge of our stakeholders and the IBSF, and we believe that sharing this knowledge is vital for the development of IBSF sports. I particularly thank the World Academy of Sport for their expertise in developing the concept for our Academy.”
Six core areas are planned for the IBSF Academy: Athletes, Coaches, Mechanics, Technical Officials (e.g., referees or material inspectors), Event Organizers, and Administration/Marketing & Media.
The Academy offers member federations and race organizers the opportunity to train and support athletes, staff, and officials through a combination of online and in-person offerings.
“There is an incredible amount of knowledge and experience in bobsleigh and skeleton sports. We want to pass this on to the next generations through the IBSF Academy,” said IBSF Secretary General Heike Größwang.
Leading the Academy’s offerings is Nicola Minichiello, IBSF Coordinator. A former bobsleigh pilot herself, she has worked for many years in youth and event management at the IBSF and is developing the courses together with the IBSF team and many supporters from the national sectors.
The IBSF's partner for the Academy is the World Academy of Sport (WAoS), a long-standing partner of numerous international federations, major organizations, and events in the international sports sector, focusing on education and training services.
“Whether you are an athlete, coach, mechanic, official, organizer, or administrator, our goal is to support you throughout your time in the sport,” emphasized IBSF President Ivo Ferriani and added:
“We welcome every participant of the IBSF Academy and every contribution to the growth of our IBSF family. Our aim is to support everyone in their individual development and growth. Education is the key, and now is the right time to structure learning in our sport to provide our stakeholders with long-term opportunities and create a sustainable path for our federation. We thank the World Academy of Sport for their support on this remarkable journey. Let’s shape the future together.”
Courses available in English and German can be accessed through the IBSF website at www.ibsf.org/de/academy.
