An interview with Jnr. Snowboarder Mickey Daniel

Meet 11 year old Mickey Daniel from Morzine-Avoriaz. He is half French and half South African, loves snowboarding, jokes, Slopestyle and Big Air. So what makes Mickey Daniel so special? We caught up with Mickey over hot chocolate at Cafe Changabang in Avoriaz.

What inspired you to pursue snowboarding?

- I've been drawn to the thrill of snowboarding ever since my mum started pushing me around on my board at the age of 5. I would also spend hours at the Snowpark watching the pros perform tricks.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in snowboarding so far?

- Winning the French National KNT competition was a huge accomplishment for me and making it to the podium at the Swiss Nationals.

Where do you train?

- Most of the Winter I train in Morzine-Avoriaz and in La Clusaz. I also train in Leysin, Glacier 3000 and Crans-Montana, Hintertux and other resorts.

How do you balance schoolwork and training for snowboarding competitions?

- It's definitely a challenge. Ofcourse I would prefer to be in the snowpark all day and be home-schooled. However my school is very supportive of my snowboarding. Equally my coaches are also very supportive of my school work. I often have to work on school assignments when I am away for competitions or on training camps.

How do you handle setbacks or failures in your snowboarding?

- I try to view them as learning opportunities and use them to motivate myself to work harder and improve.

Who are your role models or inspirations in the world of snowboarding?

- There are many that inspire me but if I had to name a few I would say: Anthon Bosch, a really cool South African snowboarder has been a huge inspiration to me. His attitude and determination to succeed in a sport not traditionally associated with South Africa motivates me to push my own boundaries. Then there is also Shaun White, Maisie Hill a Morzine local, Mia Brooks, Zeb Powell and rising snowboard star Romain Allemand.

Do you think you get your love for the mountains and the snow from your mum or your dad ?

- I definitely get the love for the mountains from my mum. My mum, loves the snow and cold above everything. She would move to Antarctica or Mount Everest if she could. Hang on I don't want her being chased by penguins, a polar bear or a yeti - Instant laughs.

My dad is a really good surfer, loves chasing surf and the sun. He is originally from Durban, South Africa where he grew up surfing with the big Boys like Jordy Smith. My mum and dad met back in the day whilst she was working on a film documentary.

What are your long-term goals in snowboarding?

- I'd be down for international competitions like the Winter (Youth) Olympics and eventually the X-Games. I also want to inspire young athletes who share my passion for the sport. I hope to some day get the opportunity to spend time in places like Afriski to teach the next African generation to snowboard.

Afriski?

Yes, Afriski. This really cool place in Lesotho, Africa where you can snowboard.

How do you stay motivated during training sessions or tough competitions?

- I stay motivated by focusing on my goals and reminding myself why I love snowboarding. I am also surrounded with supportive teammates and great coaches that help me grow. My mum is also always there to support and my biggest snowboard fan.

How do you stay fit during the summer months?

- Next to Snowboarding I also do gymnastics and trampoline training. I spend lots of time hiking and mountain biking, I take up wakeboarding in the summer months on Lac Leman, I skateboard and I train in Leysin on the airbag.

My grandfather from my mum's side was a professional footballer and played for Aston Villa. Sport is very important in our household and we are a very competitive bunch.

Do you ever sit still or get a chance to relax?

Yes, I like sitting at top of the snowpark de La Chapelle watching the sun go down, listening to music and hanging out with my friends.

What advice would you give to other young athletes?

- My advice would be work hard, and never give up on your dreams. Surround yourself with positive friends. Set goals, and always remember to have fun.

How do you plan to continue improving and evolving as a snowboarder?

- I plan to continue learning new tricks and pushing myself out of my comfort zone trying new things. I'm also going to spend as much time on the snow as possible.

What's next?

- In just a few days I leave for my first ever participation in the World Rookie Tour in Font Romeu. I'm stocked. I'm going to enjoy watching some of the World's best kids land their tricks. I'll soak up the amazing vibe that the World Rookie Tour community has to offer. I am also looking forward to the French Championships later this year.

Follow Mickey Daniel and his snowboard adventures on Instagram @mickdanielsnow

mickdanielsnowboarding@gmail.com

About the World Rookie Tour:

Next generation of professional snowboarders and freeskiers, are you ready? 2024 World Rookie Tour Font Romeu promises to be eventful and, obviously, amazing. The Black Yeti is ready to find future champions and to support them in their careers. National delegations are expected to reach Font Romeu on Thursday the 23rd of February 2024, to be in place for the official training day on the 24th of Feb. The Competition will happen on the 25th and 26th of February 2024.

This release was published on openPR.