By Giovanna Santasofia
The skates roll across the skating rink. They twirl and turn, and they dash past everyone in a flash. 7th grade Ava Baker loves roller skating, so much so that she skates at a competitive level. Here is what she had to say about her experience with it.
What is it like when you first put on skates?
It feels different. It takes a while to break them in. You have to skate a while before you get used to them and do anything crazy.
How long did it take for you to learn a routine?
It takes a few lessons with my coaches because they make my routines, and I have to memorize it. So, it takes around 3 weeks or 4 weeks.
What is your favorite part of skating?
It feels really good because I’m one of the people in this world who can skate really well. And, obviously, it’s a rare sport for people to do.
What is your least favorite part of skating?
Probably just getting in my head some things. Just that bad head space of messing up and ruining my headspace in everything I do.
Is there anything that made you want to quit?
At one point, I had a really mean coach that did some bad things, but I eventually went back to liking to skate.
What are some physical challenges you face?
Well, when you skate, you get hurt, you can twist your ankle, and you can get scars that can stick with you forever. But, it’s good to have these scars for memories. Just don't give up!
What are some mental challenges you face?
Well, I work on one element for a while, and I’ll keep messing up. And, I think about those things. Sometimes, it can just affect my headspace.
How is it like traveling to go to competitions? And where do you go?
I’ve been to a bunch of places. But, I’ve never been outside the country. I’ve been to lots of states. It’s really tiring because we have to wake up super early to go to places, and it messes with my sleep pattern.
Why did you choose to do roller skating?
Well, it really wasn’t something I wanted to choose. I did roller skating for a school fundraiser, and I liked it. So, my nana taught me how to roller skate. I got a coach, and I haven’t given up on it yet.
How do you balance it out with school and other activities?
It’s hard because I have to skate for a lot of time, and I have to do schoolwork in the car or right before bed. But, I manage to fit in schoolwork and being with my friends.
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