Sports at Academia Cotopaxi

Championing Excellence, Teamwork, and Healthy Lifestyles

Academia Cotopaxi, one of Ecuador’s leading American International Schools, is home to a vibrant and inclusive athletics program that inspires students to grow, compete, and thrive. Through diverse sports offerings and exceptional coaching, we cultivate a culture where every child can discover their strengths, challenge themselves, and develop lifelong healthy habits.

Our commitment extends far beyond competition. We believe that movement, teamwork, and personal growth are essential to the whole-child experience. Whether students are exploring a new sport, playing recreationally, or competing at an advanced level, they find support, opportunity, and belonging at Academia Cotopaxi.

At AC, every athlete — from beginner to elite — finds their perfect place to play, grow, and excel.

Our Athletics Philosophy

Athletics are an essential part of a well-rounded international education. Our program is grounded in the belief that sports offer real-world experiences that develop character, strengthen relationships, and build confidence. Through training, collaboration, and competition, students cultivate skills that shape them both on the field and in life.

At Academia Cotopaxi, student-athletes learn to:

• Take responsibility and build resilience
• Lead and collaborate as effective team members
• Show respect, sportsmanship, and ethical decision-making
• Develop physical health and lifelong wellbeing
• Grow confidence, balance, and emotional strength

Our athletics philosophy aligns closely with the IB Learner Profile, supporting the growth of the whole student — physically, socially, emotionally, and ethically. These values guide our coaching, inform our program culture, and prepare our Cougars for lifelong success.

Sports we offer:

Volleyball

Basketball

Soccer

Swimming

Recreational Sports We Offer (Extended Learning)

Roller Skating

Tennis

Jiu jistsu

Frisbee

Achievements & Highlights

Our teams have earned placements in both QISSA and AMISA tournaments. Student-athletes often receive recognition for leadership, sportsmanship, and athletic excellence.

3rd place Girls JV, Boys JV, Varsity Boys Volleyball QISSA 25-26

1st place Boys AMISSA 24-25 Volleyball

2nd place QISSA boys 24-25 Volleyball

2nd place QISSA boys basketball 24-25

Seasonal Information

At Academia Cotopaxi, we are members of multiple leagues. Our main sports run across three seasons during the school year.

Fall Season: Volleyball Girls and Boys, JV and Varsity

Winter Season: Girls Soccer and Boys Basketball, JV and Varsity

Spring Season: Girls Basketball and Boys Soccer, JV and Varsity

Each season includes regular practices, league competitions, and development sessions.

Athletics Director 

Carlos Espinosa brings over 30 years of teaching and administrative experience in both the United States and Ecuador. A lifelong swimmer and all-around athlete, he has served as Athletic Director at Academia Cotopaxi for four years and as a swimming coach for five. His broad leadership background and commitment to student athletics continue to strengthen our programs and community.