The Family Behind the Family Business
Behind Independent Snowboard School is a family with a shared passion for snowboarding, the mountains and creating unforgettable experiences on the snow.
Andre Sommer
Sofia M. Sommer
ROLAND SOMMER
Franziska Mächler
In 2012, the 2 brothers André and Roland and Sofi, three highly experienced snowboard instructors, decided to take a new direction. After many years of teaching and owning other ski schools in Verbier, they began working independently as snowboard instructors and called them self Independent Snowboarding.
Five years later, in 2017, their passion for snowboarding and their desire to build something of their own led them to create Independent Snowboard School.
As the school grew, so did the work behind the scenes. More bookings, emails, organisation and office work meant that Franziska joined the team to help keep everything running smoothly.
What started with Sofi, André and Roland the three snowboard instructors and a shared passion has grown into a family-run snowboard school built on experience, dedication and, above all, a genuine love for snowboarding.
Today, we are proud to continue doing what we love – sharing our passion for snowboarding and the mountains with our guests from all over the world.
Our Amazing Team & Extended Snowboard Family
Our team is made up of experienced and passionate snowboarders who love sharing their passion with riders of all ages. From little ones taking their very first slide to experienced adults looking to improve their riding, our instructors bring the patience, experience and passion to make every lesson fun and memorable.
Our snowboard family is here to ride with you!
Javi Lopez
Javi is one of our Argentinians and joined the Independent team in 2023. A passionate snowboard instructor, he stole all our hearts from day one with his big smile and easy going personality.
He’s great with everyone, from our youngest riders to our oldest clients, and brings the same passion and energy to every lesson. Whether you want to improve your riding, have fun in the park or simply enjoy a great day on the mountain, Javi is always up for it.
When he’s not teaching with us, you’ll find him splitboarding, exploring the mountains or enjoying some time in the Snowpark. We’re very happy to have him as part of our team!
Tom Wilburn
“Snowboarding is definitely the element that gives direction to my life and the way I live it. Since I started all I want to do is spend time on my board.”
Henry Clark
“I love snowboarding for the outdoors and for the creativity. I am very lucky to be able to share my passion with others.”
Joey Steger
“Snowboarding and its lifestyle is what I live for. Sharing the riding feeling with other motivated riders, gives me energy and motivation in life.”
Steven Gray
“Snowboarding is definitely the element that gives direction to my life and the way I live it. Since I started all I want to do is spend time on my board.”
Gael Volle
“I started snowboarding in 1990 and I am hooked to the sport since. I spend every winter in the snow, playing around with my board. I Just love it.”
Laia Ferran Sala
“I start snowboarding as a teenager, and it was love at the first sight. It change my life forever. Chasing winters, teaching and spreading the love I have for it, it’s what makes me feel fulfilled.”
Rea Grimbelsky
“Snowboarding is definitely the element that gives direction to my life and the way I live it. Since I started all I want to do is spend time on my board.”
Lalo Sivila
“I love how Snowboard connect people in a special way, no matter of age, gender or culture, its not a cliché, it really brings the best out of everyone and align it.”
Lozyo Dimitrov
“I started snowboarding when I was 13 years old and I got hooked since the first day. I love the freedom snowboarding gives me and now I want to pass the passion to others and see the smile on their faces. ”
Gina Sommacal
“To me life makes sence when I’m on a snowboard, feeling my body move in harmony with the mountain fullfills me with gratitude and profound happiness.”
JOAO SILVA
“Water and surfing is my element, and snow is just frozen water. The day I tried snowboarding I knew it was going to be part of my life.”
Urs Schrade
“Drawing lines with my snowboards is my way to connect with mother nature. Flowing through the mountains keeps me humble and grateful. Sharing Snowboarding is just the best thing in the world.”
Arianna R. Detto
“Snowboarding is definitely the element that gives direction to my life and the way I live it. Since I started all I want to do is spend time on my board.”
STEVE KLASSEN
“Snowboarding puts you into the nature world. I seem to need that connection and with the snowboard is one of the best ways I have found it.”
James Howe
“I started snowboarding in 1990 and I am hooked to the sport since. I spend every winter in the snow, playing around with my board. I Just love it.”
Hugo Charpentier
“I started snowboarding in 1990 and I am hooked to the sport since. I spend every winter in the snow, playing around with my board. I Just love it.”
"Our goal is to share with you our passion and love for snowboarding"
