Woh, thanks to another interview which was in another language with various translated versions to blow up this thread. Anti Rafs or not, there’s no need to be on an attack mode due a difference in opinions especially when we’re looking in from the outside and aren’t pro skaters or coaches ourselves. Interviews are just only good as reference with a grain of salt. Frankly, I don’t believe they have shared all their plans with the media and probably won’t.
I’ve been coached in a different sport and it’s definitely a two-way street, at times like it or not, even parents have their two cents which can be a train wreck or a plus. For Nathan and Raf, they both need to work on communication and base off Worlds, it seems they are making progress. Per his post OG and Worlds in-person interviews (not through media’s mouth) Nathan has noted he’s learned how to be honest in dealing with his true emotions even at times of struggle, after all, he will behave like a teenager as much as he appears to be calm & mature on the outside. Raf also has his homework cut out as he will have to adopt and be accommodating when his team is gaining more top skaters with diverse cultures backgrounds.
With Mao, she didn’t disclosed the reason and who knows what would’ve happened if she did, so it’s an complicated example to compare Nathan’s situation. To assume Orser is the magician or he’s a great communicator is quite biased. I don’t think it’s fair to compare Hanyu’s 2014 gold medal to what happened this year with Nathan, sorry to the few Hanyu fans here, 2014 was a horrendous men’s and he got gold because Patrick crumbled. In addition, 2014 Hanyu already has about 4 seasons under his belt vs Nathan’s two, to me, the seasoning from years of senior competition does make a difference. Not too familiar to Orser selections of skaters but some were already very accomplished skaters before they arrived to his team; other coaches on the team also contributed to the refinement so all credits shouldn’t go to one person. He receives more financial and personnel assistance from the feds too. No one even know if he is a good coaching fit for Nathan with or without Hanyu. Same token, Raf does need more coaches to cross train his top skaters and the US fed needs to step up if they wish to continue to stay relevant in this sport. Hopefully, we will see the US fed invest in the future.
Nathan will have to adjust his plan after school and professional skating begin and there will be hurdles and falls which to me, is fine, he’s growing. I don’t expect this first year with both priorities on the plate to be a perfect one, as long as he’s growing and happy while overcoming the challenges that come his way and show improvements in his SS, it’ll be a plus for me.
Chelsea Piers Sky Rink if not been shared
https://instagram.com/p/Biham-5AJeM/
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Nathaaaaan. Prior to that I had been quite disinterested in men's skating for a long time.
- I first noticed him at 2017 Nationals - Le Corsaire. I was immediately very interested in this ballet inspired program - and was like OMG! when I saw his 4F perfectly timed to the descending harp. Then I was like WOW! to his step sequence - really loved this program very much. Prince Igor was quite mind blowing and Stole the Show - immediately loved as well - and couldn’t quite believe a 17 year old guy was capable of skating with such confidence, style, and swagger. I really loved Nathan’s skating style and athletic abilities before I even noticed ...
