Natalia Frederickson, a 16-year-old Junior who has been in Figure skating for 15 years, likes to compete in figure skating competitions whenever she is able to. The competitions can take place anywhere, although she likes it the best when they are in New Ulm because she is in her hometown.

“Figure skating is harder than what most people think it is,” Natalia said. Figure skating is a sport of showing off what you can do, which is why the mental part of the sport is so big. Not believing in yourself and having no confidence is not good because you are basically asking for failure, Natalia said. Believing in yourself pushes you to try new things to show off the new skills that you are not so sure about.

There are many different categories to compete in at a competition. There are solos, jump and spin, artistic, hoop, character, footwork, stroking, and many more.

“My favorite one to do for competitions are solos because I get to choose everything myself,” Natalia said.

Natalia said there are many things you can do at a competition while waiting for your turn to compete. You could watch other people compete, or you can look at all the props they have set up for the show, or you could hang out with your friends or family in the friendly environment.

“I like competing in competitions that have a friendly environment, so I know I will have fun,” Natalia said.