When Bode Miller left the Us ski team in May, clashes of philosophy were cited as the major cause. Now Miller has spoken up about a further, financial aspect to his dissatisfaction with the team. During the final round of the American Century Championship, Miller said that the team pulled $60,000 to $70,000 funding from him for the upcoming season...
“I would have had to pay for it whether I was part of the team or on my own,” he said. “It made more sense for me to choose my coaches and all my stuff rather than have to do what they said.
Over 10 years with the team Miller made many suggestions and requests for changes in the structure and methods of the team. He notoriously spent a season travelling in his own RV, separate from the rest of the team, in order, he claims, to facilitate more of the methods and routines he personally thought would benefit his performance (and we thought it was so he could party harder
). However, even after he had proved himself the number one skier on the team, they declined to address 'a few contentious structure issues he raised', leading to his decision to ski “independently.”
Due to FIS regulations Miller will still be required to ski for the USA and wear the US colours even though he will not technically be on the US team.
“I believe I have better results in me. I believe it and now I have to show it.” said Miller.
More detail:
http://www.sierrasun.com/article/20070726/SPORTS/70726002
FAQ
Poster: A snowHead
