Matt Philippi Interview: Summer 2010

DNA: Hey Matt! How does it feel to be back in the game after a yearlong injury hiatus?

Matt: It feels great!! I am super motivated and training has been going well. I was lucky enough to catch the tail end of the season at Snowbird, which was a blast. My training at the waterramps in Park City has been progressing at much faster rate than expected... so I cannot complain!!

DNA: Matt you obviously have conquered the halfpipe-what is your favorite half pipe trick to perform?

Matt: My specialty in the halfpipe is skiing switch (backwards). A nice and floaty switch 720 is one of my favorite tricks to perform in the pipe.

DNA: You’ve been skiing since you were three...what athlete inspired/motivated you to follow your heart and dream to become a professional athlete yourself?

Matt: It was my family, not any pro skier, who inspired me to follow my heart and to stay motivated. My Mom, Dad, and brother are my biggest supporters. I wouldn’t be a pro skier without them. Within the ski industry, CR Johnson influenced me greatly. His determination and positivity was an inspiration to every one who was graced by his presence. His life has given us all the energy to stay determined and, more importantly, to be thankful for everyday.

DNA: Matt, you’re currently participating in a community outreach program, The Full Circle, in Chile. What is it that you hope to most accomplish there?

Matt: My goal with the FullCircle Project (www.TheFullCircleProject.com) is to give back to the communities in the places that we, as pro skiers, have the privilege to visit. I hope that the work we will do on the ground will affect positive change within Chile, whether building houses for those displaced by a horrific earthquake in February 2010 or helping out in the developing national park in Valle Chacabuco.

DNA: Thus far, what has been your favorite competition to compete in?

Matt: Well, I always have a blast at the European Open in LAAX, Switzerland. It is a beautiful part of the world with some of the largest mountains I have had the chance to ski. I also like this event because every year the Volkl team gets to stay in this awesome ski chalet away from all the other competitors and hoopla surrounding the event. It is very relaxed.

DNA: What is your favorite ski resort?

Matt: That is a tough one, but currently I am very excited about Snowbird.

DNA: Right now what song is your favorite i-pod play?

Matt: Anthem by Emancipator off the Soon It Will Be Cold Enough album.

DNA: If we were to open your fridge right now what would we find in there?

Matt: Lots of great food! Currently we are looking at avocados, spinach, salmon, humus, carrots... lunch is looking good! There are a few India Pale Ales in there as well!

DNA: What/Where is your favorite vacation spot?

Matt: Surf trip to somewhere tropical. I have done a few trips to Costa Rica and wouldn’t mind going back soon!

DNA: If you could meet anyone living or dead who would it be and why?

Matt: Albert Einstein...

          "Imagination is more important than knowledge."

          "A person starts to live when he can live outside himself."

          "I never think of the future - it comes soon enough."

DNA: What’s your favorite ski clothing brand? Ha Ha

Matt: DNA!!