Koen

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

Koen loves skating because it enables him to push himself to reach his goals while having fun spinning and landing jumps that a few years ago seemed like a dream He loves that he's part of the figure skating community which encourages him from the lowest levels right up to having opportunities to talk to and learn from Olympians. And he loves being on the ice and feeling his blades glide, knowing that he can do something special and feel good about the process knowing that it isn't always easy

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

Koen is inspired by the people around him as he trains and competes. He loves watching and appreciating the efforts of those he competes against and trains along side of. Having the opportunity to train with skaters with more experience gives him inspiration to improve himself and a peer to share struggles and successes with as he grows in his sport. He also draws inspiration from coaches push and support him to reach his potential through mutual respect and understanding.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

We have always been proud of Koen’s humbleness and appreciation for the efforts of others in his sport. Last season he was hanging on to the last qualifying spot for the Provincial championships and a competitor from another club scored a new personal best putting him ahead of Koen. Rather than being discouraged he was genuinely happy for him because “he deserved it”. Ultimately they both ended up qualifying for Provincials and cheered each other on along with everyone else there.