Interview with Robert Johannson

Interview with Robert Johannson Consuelo Conte [Kokkamufc] & Peggy Kierstan [@pikayartist]

Hello everybody, as you all know SkiJumpingItaly has attended last weekend’s competitions in Hinterzarten, Peggy went to this venue to take pictures for you.So from the hills to the interviews once more!Previously we interviewed his dad now it’s time to have a small chat with Robert Johansson (Norway).

SkiJumpingItaly: Welcome Robert, it’s a real pleasure to have you with us.We have had the pleasure to make an interview with your dad not too long ago so we thought it was your turn now.

Robert Johannson: Thank you, It’s my first interview so I’ll do my best!

SJI: So what can you tell us about how your ski jumping career began, what made you decide you wanted to be a pro ski jumper?

RJ: My career begun when I was 5 years old, not far away from where I grew up. Had some nice small hills there, and got the opportunity to develop as a youngster. I decided to put everything I got into skijumping when I was about 12-13 years old, simply because skijumping was my strongest side as an athlete, and my passion for it was strong.

SJI: Last season in the continental cup you did pretty well and ended the ski jumping season with your first victory, have you changed something this year compared to the past season? (physically, training etc. etc.)

RJ: Yes, the season started a little bad so I had to make some changes. And after New Year I started jumping better and better. Gained a lot of confidence during the season, and I was strong enough to win at the end of it! I have not made any big changes, because I went through surgery in July. So my training this summer has not been as planned, but I will work hard and be well prepared for the winter season!

SJI: What kind of advices your dad is more keen to give to you?

RJ: He gives me advice about how to take care of my skis, and I’m happy for the help because he knows a lot about it. Other than that he is my father, and gives me advice about everything.

SJI: What do you think about the mixed team competitions? Do you like the idea to team up with the ladies?

RJ: Yes, It’s something new and maybe we can gain bigger audience from it? I like the idea, because we can get stronger as a Nation. Also the ladies get a great opportunity to show the world what they are capable of.

SJI: There is still a discussion about the new jumping-suits. Gregor Schlierenzauer recently criticized them in an interview. What is your opinion on the new suits? Any differences to the old ones except the tolerance?

RJ: There is a difference, yes. The new suits is only as big as yourself. But you have to be prepared to do some work to keep the suit according to the new rules. Jumping wise the suit works well. I have barely been able to test the new suit because of the surgery on my ankle, so maybe I have more to say this winter.

SJI: How do you see the chances of Norway’s ski-jumpers in the upcoming season to win the globe again and to score at the World-Championships next February?

RJ: Norway has a good chance, because we work hard every day to get better. And everyone in the teams is motivated and well prepared for a new season. We have the defender Anders Bardal, Tom Hilde and Anders Jacobsen is back, plus a lot of guys pushing from behind!

SJI: What do you expect from the next winter season? Maybe a place for the WSC in Val di Fiemme?

RJ: My goal right now is to get back on my feet, and get my physical shape back. But when the competitions start, I want to perform on a high level. I will work really hard, and if I get a spot for the WSC, it would be a dream come tru.

SJI: At which competitions will we see you in the next time?

RJ: I’m sorry to say I will not compete until the winter season start. But I will be ready!

SJI: Ski-jumping-lovers aren’t interested only on the results but also in the person behind them.Would you like to tell us something about the Robert besides ski-jumping?

RJ: I work at a store when I’m not training or jumping. And I like spending time with friends, and challenge myself with new things.

SJI: Is there something you’ve always wanted to tell to the ski-jumping-people around the world?

RJ: Thank you guys for coming to the events, taking pictures, showing interest and making us skijumpers feel special!