Ten questions for... Paolo La Fata, Head of Competition Park and Pipe

It was Paolo La Fata who organized the first freestyle tour and founded a freestyle academy for young talents. It was somehow logical that the Engadin-native came up with the brilliant idea of a freestyle world championship in the Engadin. Everything about FRESK, neon yellow boards and "the king discipline of freestyle sport" can be found in this interview.

1) An idea becomes reality. What does it mean to you that the 2025 Freestyle World Championships are now actually taking place in your home country?

It means a lot to me. I have been working on this idea for years and managed to convince enough people that a Freestyle World Championship will promote the sport throughout Switzerland, but especially in the Engadin. But this is only the beginning, because it requires much more than just new infrastructure. Everyone in the valley has to believe in freestyle and create conditions so that freestylers really feel comfortable.

2) How can this be achieved?

The situation is similar to all other topics that the Engadin invests in - be it cross-country skiing, mountain biking or other activities. You have to respond to the needs of the target group and offer them added value so that they come back. It is mainly about the offers off the slopes. There needs to be more meeting areas that reflect the lifestyle of freestylers. A great bar on the mountain, a cool hotel in the valley, good music, modern art. It is also important to understand that my generation, which experienced the beginnings, is now passing this lifestyle on to their kids. A lifestyle that puts the social aspect first and is characterized by openness.

3) The beginnings were a while ago now. How has the scene changed since then?

It has grown a lot. From the crazy snowboarders who only wanted freedom and parties to an established sport in which athletes have to work hard to achieve something. The feeling of snowboarding has not changed, however. The feeling of freedom like surfing has remained and always will. The playful creativity when riding is the essence of snowboarding.

4) Do you remember the first time you stood on a board?

Yes, it was a neon yellow board with hard bindings (i.e. ski boots). I rode for about an hour at Saas Runzel and then went straight onto the slopes. Back then, skiing down the Lachtal was the coolest thing.

5) Almost exactly ten years ago you founded the Freestyle Academy FRESK. What was your main motivation?

Since the ski schools were not interested in founding a pure freestyle academy, I had no choice but to go my own way. That wasn't easy. At the time, for example, there were no in-depth teaching methods for freestyle. So I developed a booklet that showed the progression of the lessons. We even won an innovation award from Swiss Snowsports with this (laughs). It was certainly not an easy path, but looking back I would do everything exactly the same again.

6) Quite a few of the kids who discovered freestyle sports at FRESK will be taking part in the Freestyle World Championships. Some people call you a talent maker. Do you see yourself as one?

I have certainly played my part, but without my coaches, who do a great job, none of this would be possible. I try to pass on my philosophy and vision to the coaches - the DNA of FRESK, so to speak - and they try to convey this to the kids. So I would rather say that I create the framework so that everyone has the best conditions to develop further.

7) What do you like about working with young people?

There is nothing better than seeing how happy the kids are when they do a new trick or get on the podium at a competition. I also want to convey to the kids the sense of community among freestylers, which is very important to us. They should have fun riding with their friends and be happy about the success of others.

8) FRESK offers courses and camps in all freestyle sports - from biking to skating and surfing to all freestyle sports on the snow. What is your personal favorite?

I wouldn't call it a favorite, but snowboarding is my origin in freestyle and the pipe is the supreme discipline in freestyle sports. It is therefore certainly no coincidence that I am responsible for the Competition Park and Pipe in the World Cup OC.

9) Do you still go to the pipe regularly?

Not at the moment, as we no longer have a pipe. As soon as the new pipe is in place, however, I will definitely do my runs.

10) Question number 10: What is your wish for the Freestyle World Championships in Engadin?

That the World Championships are a huge success and that the population is enthusiastic. I also hope that we raise the bar organizationally to further advance the sport and that we inspire future generations to take up the sport