How did you hear about SISEC?

Fred Voser told me about SISEC. Fred used to coach the 2^nd division team of Küssnacht am Rigi,where I play for the past 9 years.

Are you primarily here because of the sports or the language education?

Both are really important to me. That was the main reason I decided to come to SISEC.

Did you plan a language stay before you heard about SISEC?

No...ah yes. I thought about a stay in England last year.

What was your first impression of Canada and Canadians?

The country is totally different to Switzerland. It’s all a little bit bigger than in Switzerland. Canada is a beautiful country. The people are really friendly. To see so many homeless people in the Downtown area needs getting used to.

Was SISEC helpful in getting you used to your new place?

Yes. SISEC supported me in every way possible.

Are you the first time in a bigger city?

Yes it’s my first time. It was a bit difficult to get used to the size of the City at the beginning but after a few days you start finding your way around. Actually before coming to Calgary I thought that the city would be even bigger.

There are four students sharing a house. Do you think this is a better solution than living with a family?

I think it’s the better solution. Everybody has their own room so you have your privacy. You learn a lot of things like cooking, washing the clothes or the dishes or cleaning the house. The only thing I miss is a garage for the cars, so you don’t have to clear the ice of the windshields every morning…laughs!!

How old were you when you began playing hockey, and how often do you train per week?

I was seven years old when I began to play hockey. I play twice a week in Switzerland.

Do you prefer to play more then twice here in Calgary?

Yes I love playing here in Calgary. And being on the ice 5 times weekly is a lot of fun.

Is there a big difference between Swiss hockey and Canadian hockey?

Yes there is. The game is faster and you have less time then in Switzerland. I’m already accustomed to playing here and now ’m ready for an NHL contract! (Smiles)

What are you expecting from your language stay? What is your goal?

I would like to benefit from my stay not only in sports or the language education but also for my life in the future.

You are here to play Hockey. What’s your experience so far?

I’ve had some great experiences. I didn’t think that we’re only playing during the shinny sessions. It’s lots of fun and I improve my game every time I’m out playing. The biggest improvements I made at the Goalie shop (as a player!). We’re working with the same coach twice a week and work on the details.

How important is sport in your life?

Sport is important but not the most important thing in my life. More important is my girlfriend, the family, friends and health.

How do you like the FOCUS International Language School?

I think FOCUS is a good school. The teachers try to make the class interesting.

What has been your most positive experience since you arrived?

It’s hard to find a highlight. I had so many really interesting experiences. Shoveling snow in the morning wasne’t one of them…(laughs).

We had a special shinny session with Chris Lindberg (former NHL and NLA player).

Which advise would you give a future student before his trip to Canada?

Bring a huge suitcase so you have enough space for all the stuff you buy during your stay here in Canada.