Interview with Erin: A Journey on Ice

Today, we sit together with Erin, to learn about her exciting journey in figure skating.

IISF: Erin, can you tell us how your journey in figure skating began?

Erin: Absolutely! My journey started when I was just three years old. My parents took me to a public skating session in our hometown, and I fell in love with the sport immediately. They signed me up for figure skating lessons, and I remember my grandma knitting me a skirt and matching sweater that I wore to practice all the time. I joined our local club and started skating a couple of times a week. In Canada, you begin with a program called "CanSkate," where you learn all the basics and fundamentals of skating. After completing all the levels and receiving all the badges, I joined the figure skating club and soon started competing.

IISF: What were some of the challenges you faced growing up as a competitive skater?

Erin: Growing up and being highly competitive in figure skating came with many challenges. At a young age, my parents decided I needed to travel to a bigger city to improve my skating. This meant more ice time and better coaching. My parents would drive 45 minutes each way to take me to training every day and then pick me up in the evening. Eventually, I went to high school in a different city from where I lived. I skated for hours each day and did off-ice conditioning. My life and my parents' lives revolved around my skating. When my parents couldn't drive me, my grandparents would help out. There wasn't one specific challenge, but many daily smaller challenges that my family and I had to overcome. Although I loved skating, it wasn't always easy getting up at 4:30 AM and heading to the rink. I didn't have a normal childhood, and my friendships were mostly with other skaters living similar lifestyles.

IISF: Can you share one of your proudest moments in skating?

Erin: One of my proudest and most memorable moments was on the day of my grandfather's funeral. My grandparents were always incredibly supportive and never missed any of my competitions. My grandpa had a loud fog horn he would blow on competition day when I went on the ice, and he always had pockets full of mini chocolate bars for extra energy. When I was 18, I decided to try out for Disney on Ice. I went to Toronto and tried out with hundreds of other skaters. A few months later, my grandpa passed away, and we were all at my grandma's house after his funeral. I received a phone call from Disney on Ice, letting me know I had made it and would go on tour in two months. Sharing this news with my family during such an emotional time is something I will cherish forever.

IISF: How did you stay focused and motivated in such a competitive sport?

Erin: Staying focused in a competitive sport is sometimes very hard. It's crucial to have support from your parents and other family members to help you reach your goals. I skated for hours each day and worked hard with the dream of one day going to the Olympics. My parents dedicated endless hours driving me to and from practice, spending weekends away for competitions, sewing outfits, and dragging me out of bed at 4:30 AM when I wanted to keep sleeping. They knew my dream and did their best to help me achieve it, especially on the days I needed extra support. It's not always fun and easy. Sometimes I would win competitions, and sometimes I would lose and leave the rink in tears. My parents were always there for me, every step of the way. If being competitive in a sport drives you, you find a way to get through the hard days. Those tough days teach you the biggest life lessons and build character.

IISF: What life lessons have you learned from your skating journey?

Erin: The journey of a competitive skater is filled with highs and lows. Winning brings joy, while losses teach resilience and character. The support system of family and friends at the rink played a crucial role in navigating these experiences. The lessons learned on the ice extend far beyond the rink, shaping a strong and determined individual. My family's dedication and support are something I will be forever grateful for. Skating taught me the importance of perseverance, hard work, and the value of having a strong support system.

IISF: Any final thoughts you'd like to share?

Erin: My story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and family support. From my first steps on the ice to joining Disney on Ice, my journey has been remarkable. I hope my story inspires others to pursue their dreams with the same determination and gratitude for the support they receive along the way.

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Erin's journey is a beautiful example of what can be achieved with hard work and unwavering support. The International Ice Sports Foundation celebrates such inspiring stories, showcasing the incredible journeys of athletes who dedicate their lives to the sport they love.