The article begins by explaining how the quadruple jump controversy started in men’s figure skating in Vancouver 2010. Liz explained how Evan Lysacek won gold without doing a quad but rather with a well rounded program. This began a huge controversy which has now almost guaranteed that every medal contender will have a quad in their program.
Liz went on to say how the technical level of figure skating has greatly increased, causing judging to fluctuate and change. The judging is now not all about the jumps, but also about the spins, footwork, and artistic ability. This has resulted in coaches to have to make decisions based on their calculations. Is it worth it to put a quad in with the chance of penalties for under rotation or falling. Since, the big controversy, however, many are saying that too many men are attempting quads and falling.
Continuing, it mentions that it’s not possible to fully convey the physical and mental demands of the quad. Since the elite skaters make it look so easy the difficulty is not fully appreciated though. In reality, the quad shows the limit of what is physically possible in the world of men’s figure skating.
To finish, the author states that if too much emphasis is put on the quad it takes away from the entire program. Skaters start to lose spins and artistry, which are important parts of a program. When the skater can perform jumps, with the gracefully spins, step sequences, and artistry it will be virtually impossible to beat.
In my personal opinion I agree with this article. As a coach I have seen too many skater focus only on their jumps. This is then taking away from their spins and footwork which are all extremely important parts of skating. I completely agree with the judging changes to be able to incorporate every part of a skating program. As a skater, my coach always emphasized on the importance of every element of a program. She pushed me to always practice my spins and other skating skills to help me accomplish so much more in my skating. I chose to include this article because I believe it is important for all skaters and coaches to see the importance of well rounded skaters.