Embedded Files
Figure Skating
Figure Skating
I have been in figure skating for most of my life. It is an incredible sport, but you must practice all the time. You have to work both on and off the ice in order to improve and master some of the more complex skills. You have individual routines that are choreographed to the music of your choice and you use them to compete with or perform at shows. Different routines (or programs) are entered in different competition categories and are judged based on particular criteria. Some programs are more technical (you get judged based on a strict set of elements that must be included), and some are more for performance (you get judged based on how well you embrace the music through your movement or how well your costume matched your program and there are no required elements). Some people do better at the more regulated events, but I prefer the ones that are meant to engage and entertain the audience. I enjoy choreography and am better at skating to the music than I am with the required elements.
Another type of program I got to try competing with last year was Synchro. Synchro is a routine with more than eight people (we had ten) with multiple team elements that we needed to complete as a group. We did our program to “Michael Jackson” and got first place in our division.
Figure skating is an amazing sport. The feeling of finally landing that jump or spin you have been working on for months is unreal, and when you medal in a competition, it is elating. It makes all your hard work worthwhile, and it makes you want to work harder in order to feel that again.
When you are at competitions there are lots of emotions that come into play. Many people are very stressed at competitions because they only have one chance to get everything in their program right. There is a lot to remember and a lot of pressure to have a perfect skate, and then there is dealing with the disappointment of not always winning. It is hard sometimes not to let these emotions overcome you, but it is important to remember that whether you win or not, God loves you just the same.
Contributed by Sara Rutsatz, Grade 10
The Joys and Challenges of Taekwondo
The Joys and Challenges of Taekwondo
Practicing Taekwondo brings me an immense sense of accomplishment. The best feeling comes after a tough session when I feel sore but proud. The soreness is a reminder of the hard work I put in, and it’s a sign that I’m getting stronger with each practice. The discipline and focus required in Taekwondo make me feel great both mentally and physically, and it’s a journey I embrace fully.
However, one of the biggest challenges I face is the pain in my hips and knees. High kicks and deep stances often strain my joints, making training uncomfortable at times. But I’ve learned to push through the discomfort while also listening to my body, adjusting my techniques, and strengthening the muscles around my joints. I practice consistently, warm up properly, and stretch before practice to prevent further strain.
Though the pain doesn’t always go away, it’s a part of the growth process. It’s a reminder that improvement takes time and effort. Despite the challenges, I keep practicing safely and steadily, knowing that every step forward brings me closer to my goals. Taekwondo is a journey of progress, not perfection, and I’m committed to growing stronger with every kick and every form.
Contributed by Dakota Peters, Grade 12
Report abuse