サッシャ・ディギーリアンさんのインスタグラム写真 - (サッシャ・ディギーリアンInstagram)「I will never forget sitting in high school calculus and *oops* checking my email on my phone. At the top of my inbox was an email from Greg Thomsen (@gregadidas ) about joining the Adidas team. At the time there were no athletes in the US sponsored by adidas for climbing. Greg Thomsen was spear heading the launch of Adidas Outdoor in North America. I had so many butterflies in my stomach as I dialed his number (after school!) to speak on the phone. The cheery, excited voice on the other end made me realize this wasn’t a call with some corporate giant; there was a human on the other end that made me feel instantly more relaxed. I had been sponsored since I was 12 years old but this was a significant shift for me to be able to start making a living from my passion. Shortly after signing with Adidas, I had a break out year in my own climbing. I won the Female Overall World Championships and I climbed Pure Imagination, at the time graded 9a, and the most difficult (grade) achieved by a woman. Greg understood that accomplishments are only a part of the narrative; he taught me the importance of developing my voice, the importance of being a steward for the outdoors, and above all, to lead by being a good person. Greg has been there for me every step of the way in my professional climbing career. He has been a mentor through business ideas, hurdles, and strategizing, and he has been my family; taking me in to stay with his own family (Allison, Lauren, Claire) countless nights. He has been my ally and my friend and I owe a huge portion of my career to him. From LA, NYC, SLC, Germany, China, and now here in Denver, this sure has been a thrilling ride, Greg! Thank you for shaping me into who I am and for being the constant, loyal, inspirational mentor you are. Lifetime Achievement Award can’t even sum all of what you have done and who you are! We love you! #adidas #outdoorretailer #daily @outdoorretailer @adidasterrex @adidas」6月20日 23時59分