Van

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

The art of moving and gliding to the music is gratifying when it is done. My passion for ice skating has a special place in my heart forever. The amazing people you meet at different events is very cool and interesting with their knowledge and skills. The friends you make at your rink, our club, and competitors is always amazing because they can relate to you almost always. Being able to express your emotions in your skating is amazing to do when it comes to your music and choreography.

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

Our Ice Dance Coach Todd Gilles makes my lessons fun and interesting. He inspires and motivates my me to do "better than yesterday". Todd always likes cracking jokes during the lesson and he is funny while leaving a serious tone to keep us on track for success. Todd is creative and artistic in our programs and music. Our program is very upbeat and fun while keeping the emotions of figure skating. Todd is also patient when coaching me when I don't understand. Finally, Todd inspires me to be kind.

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

When I went to High Performance National Development Camp with my partner, it was a surreal feeling to be coached by world class coaches that teach Team USA in figure skating and having them watch and coach me. There were many coaches and recruiters of Team USA. My partner and I learned so much and got so much better at our skating to begin this next season.