Article - "Figure Skating"

[Geesesk8]

From the article:
"On the list of the 15 most-watched television programs since 2000, you'll find only two sports: football and figure skating. But even though more than 43 million Americans watched Sarah Hughes win gold a the Olympics in 2002, most of us can't tell a twizzle from a toe loop. Now's the best time to learn, since the top skaters in the country will compete this month at the U.S. Championships. Before you tune into NBC's live coverage starting Jan. 26, use this Cheat Sheet to ice the sport......"

An interesting and fun read -
From SpiritMag - "Figure Skating"
http://www.spiritmag.com/2008_01/features/ft3.php

 

[Joesitz (RIP)]

The popularity of figure skating goes with the timing as well as the venue.

Depending on the hype, if Afghanistan were playing the US in Hockey, well, you know how much ratings that would bring especially if the Afghans had winning potential.

Figure Skating is only of major interest in the Olympics in the USA. and I believe it is soon forgotten the next day except for the die hard fans, of course. And, unfortunately, only the Ladies division.

Also I believe TV ratings of all shows are higher in the winter because people stay at home during those months, although Dancing with the Stars does quite well in the ratings.

Joe

 

[alicelouise]

Skating ratings

I think part of the reason for the decline in ratings is the lack of a strong US Lady competitor.

Kimmie Meissner is at best a top 5 skater. This isn't bad. The average American wants to see a medalist; at the very least. I'm not speaking of the base but, the wider audience.

Just, so that no one thinks I'm piling on one competitor, the biggest problem is the Code of Points. Skating programs also look like they are the same due to those requirements. Many would be fans get bored after a few routines.

It's the combination of the above 2 factors(more the 2nd) that have caused TV viewership to decline.