Created to foster connections between international and local students, The Alpina Cup features thrilling ski races, hockey games, and a convivial dinner and awards ceremony. The participants include the private elite academy Institut Le Rosey, the local Gymnasium school in Gstaad, the Saanenland Hockey Club, and The Alpina Gstaad.

When the hotel opened in 2012, The Alpina Gstaad’s former director, Niklaus Leuenberger, was eager to find ways to better connect with the Gstaad community. When he reached out to me, I suggested strengthening the ties between the local institutions and population with a friendly competition and dinner. These events would both boost the hotel’s engagement as well as create a dialogue between the local and international schools that had previously had little contact. Thus, the Alpina Cup was born.

Since I came up with the concept, it was only fitting that Mr. Leuenberger asked me to organise The Alpina Cup alongside teachers and headmasters from the schools. As a passionate former hockey player and coach, I know how sports is an empowering vehicle for camaraderie and connection. As a local business owner — newspaper publishing, marketing, and communications — I knew the event would perfectly align with the region’s high standing as a winter sports capital.

The Alpina has sponsored the entire event since its inception, including dinner and hospitality during the ice hockey game in the centre of Gstaad. Think of the hotel as the spark that has ignited kindled meaningful friendships between the schools that extend throughout the year.

You can truly feel that this popular event has had a positive effect on the relationship between Saanenland, The Alpina Gstaad, and the Institut Le Rosey. The Alpina Cup has not only significantly increased awareness of the region but has reinforced The Alpina Gstaad’s reputation as an essential member of the community. Plus, the schools maintain their bond throughout the year — like organising a football tournament. Everyone is a winner.

Even after the 12th edition, the institutions and individuals are highly motivated. They are galvanised by The Alpina Cup’s exhilarating races and matches that help form and nurture relationships. The students are particularly excited to vie for the trophies in a friendly yet competitive way. The trophies are cowbells, a tribute to the beloved Swiss Alpine cows that make our cheese so special.