Katyana

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

Katyana loves how figure skating strengthens not only her body, but her mind. She has to push herself physically to accomplish the various skills needed to compete, but she also has to push through any mental blocks she may have not just on learning new skills, but on the aspects of getting judged during the competitions that can tear at self-esteem. Conquering these makes her a more well rounded person.

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

Katyana is inspired by a very dear family friend, Bill. He is in his 60’s and is still VERY physically active; skiing, scuba diving, biking, hiking, swimming, and general workouts 4-6 times a week. Bill is also very involved with a community band and two church music ministries. He is generous with his time, often taking Katyana skiing or filling in as her local “Grandpa” when needed. Katyana cherishes the time she spends with Bill and hopes to maintain her health well into life as he has.

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

Katyana has been figure skating for 8 years, but only got serious about it for the 2025/2026 competition year. She began attacking her axel in January 2026 and she consistently started landing it in June 2026! This was pretty much entirely in her own! Due to scheduling conflicts she had very little coaching during this time and when she did have coaching, not all of it was spent on her axel.