Organised by EHC Montafon, the valley's ice hockey club, a total of 28 pupils from classes in Tschagguns, Schruns and Silbertal got their preparations underway.

A further eight training sessions are planned in the coming weeks with the final tournament, between all the registered schools from Vorarlberg and fellow hosts Liechtenstein, due to place on January 30 between 11am and 2pm, just before the EYOF ice hockey finals.

"It is very important for us to inspire the children with sport," said EYOF 2015 chief executive Philipp Groborsch.

"In this way they can get to know a sport and experience first-hand the unique Olympic atmosphere."

The European Youth Olympic Festival mascot, Alpy the marmot, joins in the training session ©EYOF2015



Werner Böhler, spokesman for Vorarlberger Sparkasse, the region's bank and supporter of the Festival, said: "Meaningful leisure activities provide an important impetus for young people.

"The savings bank has a responsibility towards future generations.

"Therefore, we are happy to support this unique EYOF school sport challenge."

Pupils will also have the opportunity to demonstrate their ability in Alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, ski jumping and figure skating during the Festival, as they compete against each other in official competition venues.