Interview with Julie Zogg, FIS Alpine Snowboard World Cup 2015 Overall Champion Professional Alpine Snowboarder

Sport - Interview

by Meryem Aksoy

In 1992, Julie Zogg was born in Walenstadt, Switzerland. She started snowboarding at the age of 8 and her passion for snowboarding carry her to the success. She made significant achievements in both juniors and senior categories. I had the opportunity to ask my questions to Two-time Olympian, 5 time Junior World Champion, and Overall World Cup Champion alpine snowboarder Julie Zogg. I talked with Julie Zogg to learn her opinions about the importance of individual sponsorship in snowboarding.

Julie, before talking about snowboarding, I would like to learn more about your life, could you tell us about yourself? Who is Julie Zogg?

In 2012, I completed my polymechanic apprenticeship. This year, I completed my personal trainer apprenticeship. My hobby is sports in general, friends, family and nature. I’m a nature lover.

How did you discover the snowboarding passion that takes you to the snowy hills? Who or what encouraged you?

When I was 8 years old I decided to start snowboarding. Since the first day, I have been passionate about snowboarding. Since 2014. I’ve made my dream a job and I’m still very happy.

Julie Zogg

Could you tell us about your snowboarding career?

I was very successful as a young athlete. It went always steeply uphill.

In 2012 I had an accident and injured my knee. In the season 2012/13, I could only complete in one race.

However, in the following season, I was able to qualify for the Olympic Games in Sochi and reached the 7th and 9th place.

In the season 2014/15 I won the overall Worldcup.

In 2017/18 I qualified again for the Olympic Games in Pyeongchang and reached the 6th place.

So far I have achieved 12 podiums in my Worldcup career and I was 5 times Junior World Champion.

Winning the European Winter Olympic Youth Festival in 2009 was your first international success. Could you tell us about your achievements?

I think the success of the European Youth Olympic Winter Festival 2009 was my breakthrough to the international top. This was followed by 5 Junior World Champion titles and 3 vice Junior World Champion titles as well as the breakthrough to the world class in the Worldcup.

What are your short-term and long-term goals?

My short-term goals this year are a medal at the World Championships and other podium finishes and winning a ball.

My long-term goals are another win of the big crystal ball and a medal at world championships and at the Olympics.

Julie, what does snowboarding means for you?

Snowboarding is a passion for me as well as the life of a great dream.

What are the basic problems that snowboarders have been living during their snowboarding career?

As a snowboarder, it is difficult to find sponsors. I'm currently the best snowboarder in Switzerland, but I still have not found a head sponsor for this season. Even though I finished 3rd in the slalom ranking last season.

How could snowboarders solve their financial problems? What is the permanent solution?

As a snowboarder, it is important to make many contacts. I noticed that it is very difficult to find sponsors without knowing the people.

What is the best way to attract sponsors' attention?

The best way to get to the sponsors is when you are successful and when you have a lot of media presence. As well as that you are always open to meet new people.

What contributions do sponsor brands provide snowboarders?

This is very individual.

What do sponsors expect and demand from snowboarders?

This is also very individual. But first and foremost, the sponsors expect good results.

Julie Zogg

Could you tell us about your sponsors? What are the brands that you collaborate with?

A very big supporter for me is the Swiss military, where I am employed. Then follows the Swiss Sporthilfe of I also get great financial support.

My private sponsors are: Micarna, allDates, Fischlielektro AG who support me financially.

In addition to these sponsors, I still have equipment suppliers sponsors:Act Gear, Kessler, Giro, Ortema, Reusch, P.A.C., Deeluxe and Winforce.

How many different platforms do you represent your sponsors throughout the year?

I have a homepage and I represent my sponsors on Facebook and on Instagram.

What are your expectations from your sponsors?

I expect my sponsors to stand behind me and support me.

What are you paying attention to when a new brand contacted you about sponsorship?

I make sure that I always maintain a good relationship with my sponsors.

What are the main factors that affect the beginning and continuity of successful sponsorship collaboration?

It is important for me to maintain contact throughout the year and keep it up to date. So you always know that my passion for snowboarding is huge.

If you had a chance to speak on behalf of all professional snowboarders at a meeting with brands, what would you say them for convincing these brands to sponsor professional snowboarders?

I think it's always important to tell sponsors what you invest and what you love about your sport.

Do you have any advice for snowboarders who want to pursue a professional career?

As mentioned before, it is important to do the snowboarding passionately and to always have fun with what you do.

Julie Zogg

What do you think about social media? How did it affect the popularity of snowboarding?

For me, social media always has a higher value. It is very important nowadays to share the passion with the outside world and to show you what you do all day long.

How can our readers follow you?

You can find me on Instagram (@juliezogg) and on Facebook under Julie Zogg.

What is next for you?

In two weeks the World Cup season starts in Italy. I am very happy that it finally starts and I'm ready.

Thank you Julie for this enjoyable interview.

For more information, please click here and visit the website of Julie Zogg

Friday, November 30, 2018.

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