Thomas Morgenstern, “I just stayed myself”.
Since the first competition of the 4-Hills-Tournament in Oberstdorf, Thomas Morgenstern has been part of the first team of Hannu Lepistö. Carefree and completely without any burdens, the 16-year-old has already settled in the adult team for good. Morgenstern has already won his first World Cup victory in Liberec, Czech Republic.
The World Championships in Val di Fiemme are not a topic for Morgenstern, but for the coaching trio: Lepistö, Stefana Horngachera and Heinza Kuttina. For a teenager, the most important event in this year's calendar will be the junior championships in Sweden.
When Morgenstern goes to the hill, he never forgets the tips from his older colleagues. 16-the old man is willing to listen to advice, because for such a young player a lot
is still new.
Skispringen.com: Thomas, when you received the information, that you will compete in the World Cup competitions?
Thomas Morgenstern: Shortly before Christmas. After I won the Continental Cup competition in Liberec, Hannu trainers, Alex and Toni decided together, that I will start in Oberstdorf.
what did you feel, knowing, that you will be jumping in Oberstdorf?
Morgenstern: It was a fantastic feeling. It wouldn't be too bad either, if I wasn't there. Then I would continue jumping in the Continental Cup and join the team in Innsbruck.
How much pressure was there in the World Cup?
Morgenstern: I didn't feel any pressure. Toni Innauer told me, that I should just stay cool.
And I did.
You did it then too, when you found out, that in the duel K.O. in Oberstdorf you will compete with Martin Hoellwarth?
Morgenstern: It wasn't really good news.
But I knew, that if I jump well I have a chance, to be in the final.
The breakthrough in your career was the victory in the World Cup in Liberec. What has changed since then?
Morgenstern: Actually nothing. I am exactly the same person, what I was before. Now I just get more fan mail and phone calls.
How were you received in the team??
Morgenstern: There is a good climate there, is marked in every situation, are we playing football, or we jump.
Do other jumpers from the team feel jealous after your success??
Morgenstern: NO, not at all. Everyone is so good, that he alone can occupy the highest place. Everyone was happy with my achievement.
Have colleagues give you tips before you jump?
Morgenstern: So. For example, Hölli told me in Oberstdorf, that I should just stay cool and not give in to the pressure. This naturally helps, if so, an experienced jumper gives guidance. But they also give me other advice. In Garmisch I was almost late for the final, because I was still signing autographs. Later I was told, that I should concentrate on my jump between sets and not give any interviews or sign autographs.
You have a sports idol?
Morgenstern: So. Kazuyoshi Funakiego.
Are you a candidate for the world cup? How do you rate your chances??
Morgenstern: My first goal is the World Junior Championships in Sweden since 3. do 9. February. It would be a success, if I was on the podium there. With my current achievements I think, that I can do it.
And the world championships in Val di Fiemme?
Morgenstern: If I was there, it would be a great experience. However, if it fails, the world will not collapse. If in Sweden I jump on the podium, there's a pretty good chance.
You have no problems reconciling school and sport?
Morgenstern: I am a student at the Borg sports gymnasium in Spittal. They have a lot of understanding for me. I can do homework later or…
What does your daily schedule look like??
Morgenstern: I'm usually at school until noon. Then a little break, and then two more hours of training
in Villach or Ramsau. I am coached by Martin Wiegele.
There is still enough free time left?
Morgenstern: So. I like ski jumping so much and I want to do it. I like it.
What do you want to do this season??
Morgenstern: I just want to jump well.
Then everything will come by itself.