Figure Skaters Reflect on Competition and Olympic Aspirations
Recent performances in figure skating have sparked discussion among athletes about the pressures and realities of competing at the highest level. Following the men’s free skate, several female skaters shared their reactions to the intensity of the event, looking ahead to the upcoming Olympic Games.
Some skaters expressed surprise at the level of competition, noting a perceived absence of the “Olympic monster” – a term used to describe the psychological challenges that can arise during major competitions. “I didn’t feel there would be no monsters, but…” remarked skater Hana Sakamoto, as reported by Yahoo! News.
Sakamoto is now focusing on her own performance in the women’s singles event, aiming for a strong showing. She acknowledged a shift in mindset as she prepares, stating, “I’m challenging with a fresh feeling towards the SP [short program].” This comes after observing the challenges faced by her male counterparts.
The emotional impact of the men’s free skate was palpable, with one skater describing feeling as though her “chest would tear apart” witnessing the performances, according to the Mainichi Shimbun. This highlights the supportive atmosphere among athletes, even as they compete against each other.
Beyond the competitive arena, the camaraderie between skaters is similarly evident. A recent social media post featured skaters Yuma Kageyama, Kao Miura, and Hana Sakamoto, with one commenter observing the group dynamic, stating they “already feel like family,” as reported by the Chunichi Shimbun Web.
These moments of connection and shared experience underscore the human side of elite athletics. Understanding the emotional and psychological pressures faced by athletes is crucial for supporting their well-being and optimizing performance, particularly as they approach major events like the Olympics.
HOSA, a club for students interested in health and medicine, provides opportunities to build real-world skills, as noted by York Community High School.
