Sophia Rouches

Tell us about you! How did you get into sport? Where are you from? What is your story?
I have always been into sport. I was born and raised in Vancouver and skied from a young age. I was introduced to hiking in high-school and started mountain biking back in the 80’s before shocks.

What is a fun fact about you or something not many people know about you?
I love foraging seaweed!

What has been your biggest struggle throughout your career?
How have you dealt with or overcome that? For me I think my biggest struggle has been navigating the complexities of being a women in a heavily male dominated industry. I don't have everything figured out by any means, but I've been able to find an awesome crew of women that listen and support me.

Injury is a part of life, and sport - how did you deal with yours?
When I fractured my tibial plateau in what felt like a pivotal part of my career, I took it as an opportunity to focus on other parts of myself. The mental recovery is just as important as the physical recovery coming back from injuries. Allowing myself to learn new skills, and develop new hobbies is evidently what gave me the clear head to return to skiing with the fire that I had when I got injured. Injuries are a part of the process.

What’s your favourite pre/post sweat snack? Your must have treat?
Haribo gummies!

Do you have any pre-competition rituals?
When I'm scared on top of a line, or hitting a big jump, I try to remind myself of all the training and preparation I've done to put myself there. I always visualize exactly what I'm about to do, and then tell myself I got it. Confidence is key.

What gets you most excited about being a part of the Stoko Ambassador program?
I'm excited to have extra support for my knees without having to wear bulky knee braces. Stoko products have allowed me to have a lot more confidence in my body when I'm dropping in. I can focus on skiing, instead of being nervous about my knees.

Career Highlights!?
Segment in The Approach Film and Approach Film 2 Segment in Roots by Faction Skis Produced and skied in Confluence, to be released Nov. 2022

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