11-Year-Old With Zero Snowboarding Experience Makes Cover Of Snowboarding Magazine

December 29, 2025

An 11-year-old kid with no snowboarding experience ended up on the cover of a major snowboarding magazine — all after sliding down a snowy hill on a plastic bin lid.

Last February, Mickey Watkins was playing outside near his home when he noticed a group of snowboarders and photographers nearby capturing action shots. Curious, he wandered over to see what they were doing and started watching them ride down a snowy hill and along a railing.

Before long, Mickey grabbed a nearby plastic tote bin lid and began sliding down the hill himself. Photographer Mike Yoshida, who was visiting the area for a photoshoot, encouraged Mickey to try standing up on the lid — and snapped a photo in between shots of professional riders.

The image instantly stood out.

Unlike most snowboarding photos, Mickey’s face was fully visible — no goggles, no gear, just a kid experiencing the simple joy of sliding on snow. Yoshida later shared the photo on Instagram, where it caught the attention of Colin Wiseman, content and brand director of The Snowboarders Journal.

The magazine, known for showcasing elite athletes and dramatic landscapes, decided to do something different. Wiseman felt the image captured the heart of snowboarding — not competition or perfection, but pure joy. That photo of Mickey riding the plastic lid ultimately became the cover of the magazine.

When the cover was shared online, it quickly resonated with readers. Many praised the decision, calling it one of the publication’s most meaningful covers yet.

The moment sparked more than smiles. Organizations and brands reached out, wanting to support Mickey’s newfound connection to the sport. Through those efforts, he received a season pass to a ski area and will begin snowboarding lessons. He’s also being outfitted with a full set of snowboarding gear, including a board, helmet, jacket, gloves, goggles, bindings, and pants.

Watch the video below: