By Kristen Henneman
Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and across the country, many Americans will go around the table and share what they’re thankful for.
We asked top Team USA figure skaters what they’re grateful for, big things and small, on and off the ice.
Lucas Broussard (Men’s): My friends at the rink and at school who are always there for me.
Logan Bye (Ice Dance): This year has been filled with so much excitement for Eva and me as we had our wedding in May and have been fortunate to travel multiple times to Europe, namely France, Poland and Finland. I am so thankful to have the opportunities provided by U.S. Figure Skating to do so, as well as the support from our families in our training. That being said, I am grateful to have been able to spend a week with Eva, outside of skating, in Dublin and London in celebration of our friends’ wedding; it was our first time outside of the country being able travel and enjoy two incredible cities without bringing our skates.
Sarah Everhardt (Women’s): I am incredibly grateful for my health allowing me to continue pursuing my dreams. I am thankful for my family and my coaches giving me the tools necessary to succeed. I’m thankful for my school counselors, administrators and teachers for supporting me in my figure skating journey. Finally, even though she may not know it, I am thankful for my dog Gracie, who is always supportive and helpful when I need her most.
Maximiliano Fernandez (Pairs): This year, while I may not be competing (due to injury), I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my family, my team, everyone at U.S. Figure Skating and the USOPC. Your dedication has been instrumental in my journey back to the ice, and I’m excited to be working toward next year’s Olympic season. Thank you for being part of this comeback.
Artem Markelov (Ice Dance): I am thankful for the ability to compete internationally at various senior competitions, and I am thankful for our performance at Skate America and all the support we received from fans, friends and family during that competition. I am also thankful for being able to see my parents more often and that they were able to see us skate in person at Skate America.
Leah Neset (Ice Dance): I am very thankful for my friends and family who always love and support me. This year, I am especially grateful that many of them were able to come to some of our competitions. It was so special to have so much support at Skate America and be able to put out a good performance for them.
Danny O’Shea (Pairs): I’m so grateful for my family, (partner) Ellie and my dog Snow. I’m grateful for medium-rare steaks, and hot coffee with fresh snowfall.
Eva Pate (Ice Dance): I am extremely grateful to be surrounded by everyone I love. Logan and I had an amazing wedding in May, and we couldn't be more thankful to have all of our loved ones with us in the celebration. Additionally, I am thankful that my parents and grandparents have been able to join Logan and me on our international travels to our Grand Prix events. It was amazing to have them both in France and to have my grandparents join us as well in Finland. Their support means everything to me and I am grateful.
Valentina Plazas (Pairs): I am grateful for the opportunity to skate with my partner (Maximiliano Fernandez) and my team. This year has taught me the value of time and training with my family: Max, Jim Peterson and Amanda Evora Will. I have come to appreciate every day in and day out with them, even on the toughest days.
Bradie Tennell (Women’s): I'm incredibly grateful for all the help and support I received throughout this past year while I recovered from my ankle injury and worked toward making a comeback for this season. It has been such a process, and I couldn't have done it without the support of my team and my loved ones. I'm also grateful for all things pumpkin spice, good books and fall fashion.
