Holidays are built into every school calendar around the world. Schools across Asia look forward to weeks off for Lunar New Year, while international schools in Islamic countries often adjust daily schedules for the holy month of Ramadan. Yet, there are few places on earth where the academic year includes a dedicated week off in the winter specifically for "Ski Break."
This tradition is one of the most unique aspects of life and culture in Bavaria. For an international community like Munich International School (MIS)—home to over 65 nationalities—many arriving families are initially surprised by this built-in dedication to winter sports. Skiing is an athletic endeavor quite different from strolling through festive Christmas markets, and taking to the slopes can feel intimidating for parents and children who did not grow up near snowy mountain peaks. However, what begins as unfamiliar territory soon reveals itself as one of the most enriching chapters of the MIS experience.
A 50-Year Legacy: Skiing as MIS’s Cultural Heritage
The arrival of winter at MIS is far more than a break in the timetable; it is a tradition deeply woven into the school’s history. At the apex of this heritage stands the legendary Heinrich Harrer Cup (HHC), a flagship international school alpine competition held in Seefeld, Austria.
What began in 1975 as a student-driven initiative co-founded by long-time MIS physical education teacher and coach Dan Glover, alongside alumni Wolfgang Vollath and Martin Rose, with legendary mountaineer Heinrich Harrer as patron, has grown into a half-century tradition. Over 50 years, MIS athletes have built a legacy of excellence, capturing the overall team championship in 37 out of 50 years.
This passion for alpine racing continues through the prestigious MIS Ski Team. Student-athletes in Grades 5 through 12 train alongside professional coaches from Austria Racing Camps, traveling across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland to compete in Slalom, Giant Slalom, and Super G events. Through early morning course inspections, shared bus rides, and cheers at the finish line, skiing at MIS has cultivated a lifelong bond: once you join the team, you are always part of the family.
Glover Skiing: A "Baked-In" Gateway for Non-Skiing Families
For families who have never stepped foot on a snow-covered mountain, transitioning from beginner to confident skier can feel like a daunting summit to climb. To bridge this gap, the Glover family developed a structured, welcoming method that makes slope proficiency accessible to everyone.
Founded more than 40 years ago by Dan and Sherine Glover as part of the MIS community, Glover Skiing ("Ski Saturdays") was created specifically to help international families embrace Munich’s proximity to the Alps. Today, the program is led by their daughter, Melanie Barendregt-Glover, a former MIS Ski Team racing coach with extensive ski instruction experience.
The benefits for MIS families are manifold, including transportion to and from the slopes from the MIS parking lot, a dedicated bus just for parents, instruction in English, and six weekends to improve before the traditional, big finale "race".
Through this thoughtful framework, non-skiing families quickly transform into confident, passionate skiers while building lasting friendships across the MIS community. Our PTV president, Alexandra Frohne can testify:
Glover Skiing's Ski Saturdays have been fantastic for my girls. They've become much better skiers, but more importantly, they absolutely love it. And believe me, if two teenagers willingly get out of bed early on a Saturday morning, you KNOW it's good! As an alumna, I love that a skiing tradition started by my very own PE teacher is still going strong. That's what makes the MIS community so special to me.
Kicking Off the Season: The Annual MIS Ski Swap with Expert Melanie Glover
To launch the upcoming winter season with enthusiasm and full preparation, MIS is hosting its annual Ski Swap. Gathering gear for growing children and beginner skiers can be tricky, but the school community ensures families have expert guidance right from the start.
Let's face it, kids grow ridiculously fast, and skiing comes with a LOT of gear! That's why I love Ski Swap. So much of the equipment is barely used, including the stuff I'm planning to sell myself! - PTV President, Alexandra Frohne
This year, MIS is welcoming Melanie Barendregt-Glover on site to provide professional consultation during the Ski Swap. Bringing decades of family heritage and personal coaching experience, Melanie will be available to assist families with sizing, gear fit, and purchasing decisions. Her expert advice ensures that every athlete—whether embarking on their very first Ski Saturday or preparing for competitive racing—is equipped comfortably, safely, and affordably for the slopes ahead.
From gear consultation at the Ski Swap to Saturdays in the Alps and the heights of the Heinrich Harrer Cup, MIS turns Bavaria's winter wonder into a lifelong passion for families from every corner of the globe.