The Montessori Sports Summit 2026

From Independence to Interdependence: Movement, Mastery, and Meaning through Sports.

Watch the aftermovie of 2025

This years theme:

From Independence to Interdependence

This year’s theme captures the natural progression of human development as described by Dr. Maria Montessori; from the independent exploration of the individual child to the interdependent collaboration within a community. Through sports and movement, children learn not only to refine their physical abilities but also to connect, cooperate, and contribute meaningfully to others.

At the 2026 Summit, we will explore how movement becomes a path to mastery, allowing children to develop confidence, control, and concentration, while also cultivating empathy, communication, and teamwork.
We’ll look at how Physical Education, games, and sports like tennis, basketball, and football can become environments where children experience purpose, joy, and belonging; fostering holistic growth that unites body, mind, and spirit.

Speakers

Frank Dick OBE

Globally respected athletics coach, author, and mentor whose pioneering work in elite performance, coach education, and leadership has influenced generations of athletes and coaches across Olympic sport and beyond.

Louise Livingston

Serving as Head of Training at the Maria Montessori Institute in London with decades of international experience in teacher education, leadership, and educational neuroscience who recently completed her PhD in this field.

Eder Cuevas

Leader with 20 years’ experience; Executive Director of Montessori México and Montessori de Chihuahua, with AMI Elementary and Adolescent credentials plus graduate degrees in Sport Psychology and Education.

Lora Woellhaf

Head of School at The Philippine Montessori Center with a Master of Education and extensive AMI credentials spanning 0–18, backed by postgraduate training in educational leadership and management and an international foundation in child development through RIE.

Stephanie Pullman

Montessori educator and leader with over 30 years of experience; as a classroom guide, teacher trainer, and school leader and is now developing pilot environments for Montessori Tennis while supporting the broader Montessori community.

Alberto Guijarro Sabaniel

Former professional basketball player from Spain who now works as a Montessori Sports educator at Westside Montessori School in Toronto, known for his work integrating movement and sports into holistic Montessori learning environments as a Montessori Sports Fundamentals graduate

Do you have an interesting story to share?

During our summit there's room for several keynotes and workshops to share your message with the global community of Montessori Sports with presence in 84 countries.

Are you interested to share your story? Fill in the "Call for proposals" form.

Deadline for proposals: 01-02-2026

Call for proposals

Fill in the form below and we will reach out to you!

We won't send spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Aftermovie Summit 2025

Summit schedule 2026

Friday, July 31, 2026

5:00 - 6:00 PM - Welcome at the location

6:00 - 7:00 PM - Keynote: Lora Woelhaff

7:00 - 9:00 PM - Dinner and drinks

Saturday, August 1, 2026

8:00-9:00- Morning Coffee

9:00 - 10:00 AM - Keynote: Louise Livingston

10:00 - 10:15 AM - Coffee break

10:15 - 11:15 AM - Workshop round 1

11:15 - 11:30 AM - Coffee Break

11:30 - 12:30 PM - Workshop round 2

12:30 - 2:00 PM - Lunch

2:00 - 3:00 PM - Keynote: Eder Cuevas

3:00 - 3:15 PM - Coffee Break
3:15 - 4:45 PM - Practical session by Montessori Sports
4:45 PM - 5:00 PM - Coffee Break

5:00 - 6:00 PM - Keynote: Frank Dick OBE

6:00 - 6:30 PM - Closing
6:30 - 9:00 PM - Dinner and drinks
optional/not included

SUPER EARLY BIRD

€160*

Valid until 1/2/26

Regular: €200

The registration includes:

Access to all event sessions on Friday the 31st of July and Saturday the 1st of August 2026
Friday-night welcome dinner*, a great opportunity for networking and socializing
Lunch on Saturday*

*Members can apply for 50% discount.

**We can accommodate meal preferences.

***Groups of 5 or more can apply for a special discount of 10%, please contact [email protected] for more information.

Venue: Hotel De Rijper Eilanden

The Montessori Sports Summit 2026 will take place at Hotel De Rijper Eilanden, a unique and spacious venue located in the charming village of De Rijp, in North Holland, The Netherlands.

Set amidst the peaceful Dutch countryside, the hotel offers a calm and inspiring environment — perfect for reflection, learning, and connection. Its large event halls, comfortable guest rooms, and outdoor spaces create an ideal setting for workshops, discussions, and physical activities.

De Rijp itself is a historic village known for its traditional architecture, canals, and welcoming atmosphere. Despite its serene rural character, it is only 30 minutes by car from Amsterdam, and easily reachable by public transport in about 45 minutes, making it both accessible and relaxing for international guests.

With its combination of nature, comfort, and authenticity, Hotel De Rijper Eilanden reflects the essence of the Montessori Sports approach — connecting movement, environment, and community in a setting that supports both independence and interdependence.

Accomodation

We are pleased to offer special room rates for Summit attendees staying at Hotel De Rijper Eilanden. Staying on-site allows you to enjoy the full Summit experience — from early morning sessions to evening gatherings — while connecting with fellow educators, coaches, and researchers in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

When making your reservation, simply mention “Montessori Sports” to receive the Summit discount.

Contact the hotel