It's pretty incredible to think a rider like Eric Willett was once an unknown, developing his skills at a once-a-week recreational snowboarding class. But that's how it was for the Breckenridge native. That is until he decided to chase his pro dreams after his 2006 high school graduation. Before long, Willett was making waves at the Burton Global Open Series and grabbing silver in his 2010 X Games debut.

After clinching an impressive 2012 Dew Tour win and an overall third in the Dew Tour rankings, Willett kept his momentum going with a bronze at Euro X Games. In 2013 Willett stayed consistent as he took a top-five spot at the X Games Tignes, two big air titles and two second-place finishes on the World Snowboard Tour. It’s safe to say he is lining himself up for success in 2014, when his discipline heads to the Olympics.

ERIC SAYS
This season was another fun year in snowboarding for me. I made it on the podium at some big events, one of them being the 20th Innsbruck Air & Style. Winning the Air & Style was a huge accomplishment for me because it has always been a big career goal. Another major highlight of the season is having been a part of the U.S. Slopestyle team for a third year with Sage and Chas. It was definitely an added bonus to travel with these guys as we competed at World Cups on the behalf of our country.

FIRST TRACKS
Born and raised near Breckenridge, Willett's been working on his style since he was six years old. Nearly every day Willet and his younger brother spent time pushing each other to the next level in their riding.

OFF THE SNOW
Willett has recently taken up mountain biking, which he says is a good way to stay in shape in the offseason. But, like many of his snowboarding compatriots, you can often find Willett on a skateboard during his time off the snow.