Development Camp Provides Unique Opportunities for Young Skaters

From August 5th to August 9th, nine short track speed skaters and 13 long track speed skaters gathered at the Utah Olympic Oval to participate in the USS Short Track and Long Track Junior Development Camp. These skaters were selected based on their performance from the past season, and the camp’s purpose was to further develop their skills as our nation’s most promising speed skaters.

Throughout the week, the campers trained with their respective national teams, engaging in both on-ice and off-ice training. All skaters also underwent a strenuous Wingate test to measure their peak anaerobic power and anaerobic capacity.

The development skaters attended various seminars led by US Speedskating staff, which covered topics such as the rules and regulations, social media skills, anti-doping policies, and SafeSport. These seminars provided eye-opening insights into the inner workings of US Speedskating.

Team-building activities were also a key part of the camp. One highlight was an opportunity for the athletes to attend a Salt Lake Bees game. 

The camp also offered the skaters a strong engagement with elite-level training. Several athletes expressed their perspectives on the experience.

Aidan Liu, a short track speed skater, says that: “Being able to use this opportunity to see what a higher level of skating looks like is a very big honor as a developing athlete. It’s also a great team bonding experience with the other skaters.”

Elizabeth Rhodehamel, a short track speed skater, says that: “I thought the camp gave us a good demonstration of how the national team trains. It was very inspirational to be with such high level skaters and a fun experience overall.

Max Weber, a long track speed skater, says that “I had a good time at the camp. Through even some struggles, I thought it got me to become a better skater and I’m thankful for the experience.”

Marley Soldan, a long track speed skater, says that: “I thought it was a really great experience. The intensity is great, and I enjoy being surrounded by people who are equally as passionate about the sport as I am.

Alongside the skaters, head coach Stephen Gough and operations director Andrea Do-Duc had very positive outlooks on the value of the camp.

Steve believes that “the development camp is an opportunity to expose developing skaters to the next level, how we train the national team, and just to have a chance to be on the ice with high level skaters. I know it is intimidating, but the ultimate goal is to get better and improve.”

Andrea’s perspective on the camp is that “it provides a unique opportunity for our junior athletes to experience training alongside the National Team athletes. This gives them the chance to understand what things would be like when they take the step to the next level. We’re a small sport in the U.S., so it’s always great to see our National Team athletes and coaches guide the next generation.”

The positive feedback from our developing athletes signifies a bright future for the sport. We look forward to seeing continued growth and talent emerge from the developmental pipeline.