While the world is captivated by the dazzling performances of figure skaters at the Winter Olympics in Milan, a different skating scene is flourishing at the University of Virginia. Here, students find a haven in Club Figure Skating, where the focus is on camaraderie and the joy of skating rather than the pressures of elite competition.
Over the past four years, the club has seen a significant increase in membership, growing from about 15 to nearly 45 members. This inclusive community welcomes all, from novices to seasoned skaters, and emphasizes a supportive and enjoyable environment.
Hemanth Saravanan, a third-year student majoring in computer science and music, found his place at UVA through this club. After transferring from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise, Saravanan was drawn to the club’s welcoming atmosphere. Despite having no prior experience on the ice, he decided to give it a try. “That sounds cool. I’ll join it,” he thought.
However, his first few experiences were challenging. During only his second practice, Saravanan fell, breaking his glasses and cutting his eyebrow. His parents were concerned, but the incident fueled his determination. “After that fall, I was like, ‘You know what? It can’t get worse than that,’” he recalled.
Now, a year and a half later, Saravanan trains with a private coach in Fairfax, preparing for his first competition at Case Western Reserve University. “Everyone in the club has been really supportive,” he said. “I always have people helping me improve and telling me what to work on next.”
[♪ “No One” by Ally and Aj ♪]
Club co-presidents Mai Friedman and Elizabeth Chuang, along with competition chair Olivia Smith and social chair Allison Ip, contribute their expertise to guide members like Saravanan. Smith, a third-year environmental science major with 16 years of skating experience, has been instrumental in choreographing Saravanan’s routine for his upcoming competition.
The club practices at SkateNation Plus in Richmond, an hour from the university, with official sessions held once or twice a month. As competitions approach, members frequently organize carpools for more practice opportunities. “Two weeks before competition, a lot of us start going every day,” Friedman noted.
Olivia Smith
Smith, who has been skating since childhood, finds a renewed sense of community in the club. “Skating can be a really individual sport,” she explained. “When you’re competing in high school, you’re representing yourself. It doesn’t feel like there’s a big team aspect.”
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