Olympic silver medallist Mike Robertson is taking another year off from competitive snowboarding to join the Evolve SSX snowboard cross team.
A string of concussions sidelined Robertson for the 2010/2011 season and he has yet to receive medical clearance to rejoin the Canadian national team. Instead, he’s making his first foray into coaching.
“I’m still not recovered, yet Evolve gave me an option to join them. I’ve always wanted to get into coaching and give back to the sport,” Robertson said.
He’ll work with the performance level boarders on the cusp of making the national team. It’s a level where a lot of riders leave the sport, however, Robertson believes he can help young athletes both on and off the slope.
“I think it will be a perfect group to work with. I have a lot to offer to them after going through it all,” Robertson said.
The Vancouver 2010 Olympic silver medallist tried to return to competitive snowboarding this summer by attending a training camp. However, after one flip on a trampoline, his concussion symptoms returned.
He still plans to return to competitive snowboarding, but he wants to be 100 per cent healthy before making his decision.
“I’m still on the national team. There’s no timeline for return because I don’t think anyone knows what it will be. I didn’t think I’d still be suffering from concussion symptoms a year later,” he said.
Instead of sitting at home waiting to recover, Robertson wanted to stay involved with the sport. After racing for 12 years, he believes he has lots of experience to share.
The Evolve SSX club is run by Adam Robertson – Mike’s brother – who is happy to have his sibling join the coaching ranks.
“It’s huge for the program,” Adam said. “He has lots of experience to offer and I can help him with some of the coaching advice.”
Having his brother with him on the road will also be a personal highlight, Adam said.
“I’m looking forward to it. We have a good relationship.”
The club hopes to have between 80 and 90 boarders and skiers for next season, and about six in the performance group.
Ski Lake Louise has again partnered with the club and will once again build a snowboard cross course for recreational and training purposes. Spots are still available with the club and more information is available at www.evolvessx.com. Camps begin in September.
