Written by 2021-22 U.S. Figure Skating Dream Program and Miami University Senior Varsity Synchronized Skating Team Member, Sammy Levine
If hearing that you would be rotating this season was a disappointment, I empathize with you. It is naturally frustrating to accept a swing position and can often leave you questioning your skating skills. I assure you, however, that you will learn and grow immensely through this experience. Although it can be disheartening, I urge you to use your rotating or alternate position as an opportunity. An opportunity to address your strengths and weaknesses, practice self-kindness and patience, and gain insight on being a team player.
We don't become great athletes without learning to overcome adversity. If you are experiencing this season as a rotator and need some direction, look no further. Here are my top pieces of advice on how to approach this season:
Feel your feelings
Being in a rotating position at any point in your season comes with a range of emotions. Whether it be disappointment, anger or confusion, your feelings are completely valid. These emotions are a testament to your passion for this sport. It is
vital that you allow yourself to feel your feelings in order to move forward.
Communicate with your coaches
Your coaches are one of your best resources for learning what skills you need to strengthen. Initiate conversations with them about what they are seeing during team practice and what you can focus on in your individual practice sessions. Conversations like these will show up many other times in your life; this is a great chance to practice vocalizing your goals and advocating for yourself.
Remember that it is not a competition between you and your swing
Constant comparison between you and your rotating partner isn't helpful for either of you, and it certainly makes practice a lot less enjoyable. Focus on yourself and your training only. Additionally, no matter who skates the competition, you want your team to be in the strongest place possible. That means working together, not against each other. Rotating can test your self-esteem. Use this as an opportunity to have a team-oriented mindset. Ask your partner for help when you don't understand something and work together to make your program shine.
Check in with your mental health
Synchronized skating seasons are long. It is natural if your confidence ebbs and flows throughout the season. Not to mention, we have so many other parts of our lives impacting the state of our mental health. Be kind to yourself and remember that you are allowed to make mistakes. If you need help, be sure to talk to a trusted adult or seek out additional resources.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to check in mentally:
- How does my body feel? Am I holding on to tension in my shoulders, hands, stomach, etc.?
- Have I been getting enough sleep? Eating and hydrating enough?
- Do I have more worries than usual? Am I enjoying my time at practice?
Be accessible
One advantage of being a rotator is that if one of your teammates gets injured or can't skate the program for any reason, you are first in line to take over. Knowing this, be prepared to jump into a new spot. This means studying your program, knowing your counts, and being open-minded. Being adaptable is super important in synchro and you will be an asset to your team by building this skill.
Set goals
In addition to your team's goals, set individual goals that will help you grow as an athlete. Use this as an opportunity to address your strengths and weaknesses. One way to ensure that you are actively taking steps to reach them is by making S.M.A.R.T goals. S.M.A.R.T stands for "Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound". When creating a S.M.A.R.T goal, check that it assesses each letter in the acronym.
Stay engaged in practice
If you aren't skating a program or section at any given point at practice, make sure to pay attention and be present. Be prepared for when it's your turn to skate. Additionally, if your team allows it, skate the section on the sides so you can build the same muscle memory as your team. Outside of practice, you can stay engaged by finding practice sessions to skate with your teammates!
Lead from where you are
You are a valuable part of your team no matter the position you have. You do not need to have a full spot or be a captain to be a leader. This experience will allow you to empathize with rotators on your team in the future. Being a valuable teammate means bringing your best attitude to practice. It can look like training with integrity, spreading positivity or supporting your teammates—all things you can do as a rotator. Set an example for what it means to be a good teammate and build connections with your team.
Although being in a rotating position can be frustrating, don't let it stop you from chasing your dreams. Focus on what you can control, and let this experience fuel the fire inside of you. I cannot wait to see all that you will accomplish. Best of luck this season!
With gratitude,
Sammie Levine
