For over five decades, I’ve been lucky enough to spend my life at the rink. From my early days lacing up my own skates to guiding some of America’s brightest figure skating stars, the ice has always been my stage. Today, I want to share some thoughts on what it means to be a coach, the lessons learned along the way, and the incredible athletes who have left their mark on my journey.

Finding My Passion: From Skater to Coach

Figure skating wasn’t just a sport for me; it was an art form. The way a skater could tell a story on the ice, pushing the boundaries of athleticism and grace, never ceased to amaze me. But as much as I loved competing, my calling wasn’t on the podium. It was behind the boards, guiding others to reach their full potential.

The transition wasn’t easy. Stepping off the ice and into the role of a coach required a different kind of focus. It wasn’t just about the technical aspects of jumps and spins, but also about understanding the individual skater, their strengths, weaknesses, and most importantly, their dreams.

Building Champions: Dedication, Discipline, and Heart

There’s no magic formula to creating a champion. It takes a unique blend of dedication, discipline, and raw talent. But what truly separates the good from the great is the heart of an athlete. The unwavering desire to push themselves, to overcome setbacks, and to chase that elusive perfect performance.

As a coach, my role was to nurture that fire within them. To be a source of support and a voice of reason. To push them when they needed a nudge and offer a comforting hand when they faltered. It’s a delicate balance, and one that I learned and refined over the years.

A Legacy of Champions: Michelle Kwan, Evan Lysacek, and More

I’ve been privileged to work with some of the most talented figure skaters this country has ever seen. Names like Michelle Kwan, Evan Lysacek, Linda Fratianne, Christopher Bowman, Timothy Goebel, and Gracie Gold readily come to mind. Each skater brought something unique to the ice, a different style and personality that made them shine.

Michelle Kwan’s elegance and artistry were unmatched. She could weave a spell on the ice, leaving audiences breathless. Evan Lysacek possessed incredible power and athleticism, his jumps defying gravity. But all of them shared a common thread – a relentless work ethic and a deep love for the sport.

Beyond the Podium: Life Lessons Learned on the Ice

While trophies and championships are a testament to an athlete’s skill, the true value of figure skating lies beyond the podium. The rink becomes a training ground for life. It teaches discipline, perseverance, and the importance of setting and achieving goals. It fosters a sense of self-confidence and the ability to perform under pressure.

These are lessons that transcend the world of sports. They equip skaters with the tools to navigate the challenges of life, to overcome obstacles, and to chase their dreams with unwavering determination.

Looking Back with Gratitude

As I reflect on my coaching career, a wave of gratitude washes over me. The opportunity to work with such gifted athletes has been an honor and a privilege. I’ve witnessed moments of pure magic on the ice, performances that took my breath away. But more importantly, I’ve seen these young athletes blossom into confident individuals, and that’s a reward that goes far beyond any medal.

The world of figure skating continues to evolve, with new stars emerging every season. But the core values – dedication, passion, and sportsmanship – remain constant. And for as long as there’s ice and athletes who dare to dream, I’ll be there, cheering them on from the sidelines.

This has just been a glimpse into my life on the ice. There are countless stories, triumphs and challenges, that could fill volumes. But perhaps the most important takeaway is the simple joy of being a part of this incredible sport, surrounded by passionate athletes and dedicated coaches. The rink has been my home, and the memories I’ve made will forever hold a special place in my heart.