The
Innovator.

StayStrong isn’t just a coaching and consulting initiative; it’s a movement fueled by passion, driven by power, and focused on progress.
Founded by Markus Graf, it helps parents, coaches, educators, and sports organizations create strong cultures, lead with impact, and build sustainable development pathways.

"empowering others to achieve sustainable success"

From the ice rink to the boardroom, Markus has worked with athletes, coaches, and organizations to build systems that inspire progress, trust, and excellence. “There are always battles in life — we call them challenge fields. And we grow through them.”

StayStrong embodies this belief. It’s a space for transformation — where education meets experience, and passion meets structure.

Markus Graf –
Curriculum Vitae

Professional Background

Swiss Ice Hockey Federation

Director of Youth Sports & Development (2006–2022)
Director of Education (2022–2024)

  • Responsible for coach education, talent development, and learning strategy
  • Key architect of the national “Pro-Lizenz” High Performance Coaching Pathway
  • Organizer of multiple international coaching symposiums (World Championships)

IIHF (International Ice Hockey Federation)

Member, Development & Coaching Committee (2013–2022)

  • Contributor to global coach education and development strategies

Professional Player & Coach

  1. 15 years professional player in Swiss National League (2× Swiss Champion)
  2. 10 years Head Coach (NLB / RL)
  3. 4 years General Manager & Head of Development

Academic and Professional Education

University Degree in Pedagogy

Maybe some description of the university, but also not mandatory

  • Masters degree (2012-2016)
  • Bachelors degree degree (2006-2009)

Awards & Recognition

  • IIHF: Johan Bollue Award-Winner (2023) for outstanding contribution to international coaching and development
  • Recognized innovator in:
    • Quality Management Systems
    • Learning Strategy & E-Learning Concepts
    • Coach Education and Leadership Development

Innovations and Projects

  • Developer of a National Transfer and Quality Management System
  • Founder of the Swiss Ice Hockey Day initiative
  • Creator of Umbrella Recruitment Support System
  • Leader in Change Management and Value-Based Leadership Models
  • Advocate for Coach Reflection & Positive Feedback Culture

Language skills

  • German –​Native
  • English – Fluent (spoken & written)
  • French – Professional working proficiency
  • Italian – Basic conversational skills