11 year aged Mickey Daniel from Morzine-Avoriaz, loves snowboarding, jokes, slopestyle and Immense Air. He is half French and half South African. Mickey Daniel could be the next immense thing in snowboarding. So what makes Mickey 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 carry out 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 carry out you balance schoolwork and training for snowboarding competitions?
– It’s definitely a challenge. Ofcourse I would prefer to be in the snowpark every 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 acquire to work on school assignments when I am away for competitions or on training camps.
How carry out 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 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 and rising snowboard star Romain Allemand.
Finish you mediate you procure your admire for the mountains and the snow from your mum or your dad ?
– I definitely procure the admire for the mountains from my mum. My mum, loves the snow and icy above everything. She would crawl 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 marvelous surfer, loves chasing surf and the sun. He is originally from Durban, South Africa where he grew up surfing with the enormous Boys like Jordy Smith.
What are your long-term goals in snowboarding?
– Ultimately, 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 wish to some day obtain the opportunity to spend time in places like Afriski to tutor the next African generation to snowboard.
Afriski?
– Yes, Afriski. This really frosty spot in Lesotho, Africa where you can snowboard.
How finish you stay motivated during training sessions or tough competitions?
– I stay motivated by focusing on my goals and reminding myself why I esteem snowboarding. I am also surrounded with supportive teammates and noteworthy coaches that aid me grow. My mum is also always there to support and my biggest snowboard fan.
How carry out you stay fit during the summer months?
-Next to Snowboarding I also enact gymnastics and trampoline training. I spend lots of time hiking and mountain biking, I catch up wakeboarding in the summer months on Lac Leman, I skateboard and I train in Leysin on the airbag.
My grandfather from my mums side was a professional footballer and played for Aston Villa. Sport is very critical in our household and we are a very competitive bunch.
Finish you ever sit still or secure a chance to relax?
-Yes , I like sitting at top of the snowpark de La Chapelle watching the sun depart 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 maintain fun.
How finish you position to continue improving and evolving as a snowboarder?
– I region to continue learning current tricks and pushing myself out of my comfort zone trying novel things. I’m also going to spend as much time on the snow as possible.
What’s next?
– In just a few days time I leave for my first ever participation in the World Rookie Tour in Font Romeu. I am very excited. I’m going to appreciate watching some of World’s best kids land their tricks. I’ll soak up the astonishing 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
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Author: Morzine Avoriaz Morzine from Morzine-Avoriaz on behalf of Mick Daniel.
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