By Samantha Rivers, Digital Media USA Watertown NY
In a flurry of spins, jumps, and awe-inspiring athleticism, the Figure Skating Club of Watertown welcomed a very special guest to their ice rink on Friday. None other than Olympic silver medalist Paul Wiley graced the skaters with his presence, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passion for passing on his knowledge to the next generation of figure skaters.
Wiley, a resident of Lake Placid, is no stranger to the world of figure skating. With accolades that include U.S. and Junior World Championships, as well as a silver medal at the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France, his resume speaks volumes. Not to mention his victories in the U.S. Open Professional Championships and the World Professional Figure Skating Championships during his illustrious career.
The excitement was palpable as young skaters eagerly absorbed every word and movement from the Olympic medalist. Wiley was impressed by their enthusiasm, noting that their curiosity and active engagement made for a fruitful coaching session. Even the coaches themselves were eager to glean insights from Wiley, seeking advice on how to best nurture their skaters’ talents.
Training sessions both on and off the ice were packed with valuable lessons. From dynamic warm-ups to off-ice jumping practice, Wiley left no stone unturned in his quest to enhance the skaters’ skills. Emphasizing the importance of proper technique, he guided them through the intricacies of jump entrances and exits, ensuring they understood the fundamentals before attempting any aerial feats.
Head Coach Sherry Robbins expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to learn directly from a figure skating legend. With skaters gearing up for competitions like the State Games of America in San Diego and the U.S. Figure Skating Excel National Festival in Massachusetts, the lessons learned from Wiley are sure to make a lasting impact on their performance.
As the ice cleared and the echoes of applause faded, one thing became abundantly clear: Paul Wiley’s visit to the Figure Skating Club of Watertown was nothing short of magical. With his guidance, these young skaters are poised to glide towards greatness, their dreams fueled by the wisdom of an Olympic champion.
