 |
Susan Wessling |
What does it take to make a champion? The formula is a complicated one,
and many intangible ingredients are key to the finished product. Yes, talent
certainly plays a big role in the success of an athlete. But attributes such
as work ethic, attitude, dedication and even luck play a role in the helping
an athlete reach the top of his or her sport.
This issue's cover story is about Russian pairs team — Tatiana
Totmianina and Maxim Marinin — that has made many sacrifices to become
the two-time and reigning World champions. Almost five years ago, they moved
to America as young adults. Neither of them spoke English and the adjustment
period was a difficult one. But with the help of their coach, Oleg Vasiliev,
who they came to America to train with, they slowly made the transition to
life in a new country. In the process, they steadily improved as skaters and
two years ago reached a plateau when they won their first World Championship
gold medal. Last year they were clearly the front-runners as the Grand Prix
season opened at Skate America. A horrific fall — Totmianina fell
headfirst onto the ice from an overhead lift position — changed all
that. They missed months of skating while she recovered from the accident.
They put that experience behind them as they entered and won, Russian
nationals, the European Championships and the World Championships. Now they
are chasing Olympic gold.
We are proud to present their story within our pages. These two skaters
have suffered somewhat from common misconceptions that often befall foreigners
making a life for themselves in a new country. Add the stress and strain of
life as elite athletes and the picture presented to the public isn't always
accurate. As their coach puts it, they have a Russian mentality when it comes
to their sport. They work hard and get the job done. Their personalities
have not always come through in the process. We hope to change that
perception and introduce you to these two unique individuals. They are
charming, witty and intelligent people with thoughtful insights into life in
America, their sport and what has made them the people they are today.
In this issue of IFS, as we continue the
countdown to Torino, we profile a number of Olympic gold medalists in our
Profile of a Champion series. In this issue we take an in-depth look at
Olympic champions Barbara Ann Scott, Carol Heiss-Jenkins, Kristi Yamaguchi,
Viktor Petrenko and Alexei Yagudin. They tell us, in their own words, what it
took for them to reach the pinnacle of their sport. They describe what it is
like to undergo the pressures of Olympic competition and then experience the
amazing joy of winning Olympic gold.
Another champion we highlight in this issue is 1996 U.S. gold medalist Rudy
Galindo. He overcame many obstacles to come out on top. He is a wildly
entertaining performer on the pro circuit today. His story is inspiring and
heartwarming.
And don't forget, you still have time to vote for your favorite champions
and performers. The ballots for the IFS Academy
are due at the end of September. Let us know who you believe deserves
recognition and entrance into our academy.
You may have noticed our website is in the process of being redesigned.
More features will be added in the coming months. Visit us at ifsmagazine.com and let us know what
you think. It is enlightening to hear your opinions and your input is always
appreciated.
Susan Wessling
Editor in Chief
|
