Athlete Animations | Tony Schmiesing

HIGH FIVES ATHLETE #16

Tony Schmiesing, recounts a life-changing moment on a sunny June 27th, 1980 in Newport. While performing a familiar dive off a rock jetty, Tony struck a rock underwater, resulting in a spinal injury. A competitive surfer with a deep passion for the sport, Tony struggled to adjust to life after the injury until he discovered skiing. The sensations he once chased in the ocean were revived on the slopes, where he found joy, speed, and a sense of weightlessness. Through connections with people like Brian and Roy and the support of High Fives, skiing continues to provide Tony with immense fulfillment, whether on groomers with friends or in the powder.

High Fives Foundation’s “Athlete Animations” is a dedicated series spotlighting our athletes’ recovery stories, celebrating their pride in representing and being uplifted by High Fives Foundation. It serves as a platform to express gratitude to our donors and supporters for their commitment to empowering individuals as they pursue their dreams, achieve milestones, and ignite inspiration in others. 2D Traditional Animation by Erik Salas. Learn more here.