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KIDS' QUESTIONS

March 2005

Kids' Questions with Kimmie Meissner

Kimmie Meissner's motto is “Don't take yourself too seriously; have fun.” But when it comes to skating, she's all business. She wowed the crowds at the 2005 State Farm U.S. Figure Skating Championships when she landed a triple Axel and won the bronze medal in her first season competing at the senior level. Meissner was the 2004 U.S. junior ladies champion and the 2003 U.S. novice ladies champion.

How does it feel to be skating and competing with some of the top figure skaters in the world? How do you stay cool and calm when you go out to skate against girls you have looked up to all your life?
Sasha Smith, 15, Warwick; and Anna Sheeran, 13, Portland, Ore.

It's very exciting to be skating and competing with some of the top skaters. It's something I've looked forward to and worked for since I started. At the same time it's a bit overwhelming, but I know I'm up for the challenge.

How long have you been skating and why did you choose to skate?
Lauren Kalbach, 13, Mass.

When I was around 6, our backyard was frozen and my brother Adam had me put on an old pair of hockey skates and we went out in the backyard and skated. After that I went to a couple of public skates and started group lessons. I loved it from that day on!

What is your “average” day like?
Christina Atkinson, 10, Atlanta, Ga.

My average day begins when I wake up at 6 a.m. I have five periods of school a day without a break, so when my mom picks me up I'm usually starved. I eat my lunch in the car and try to get some homework done on the way to the University of Delaware. I skate three sessions a day and do another session of off-ice training. Usually I get back home for dinner around 6 p.m. After dinner I finish up my homework, take the dogs for a walk and maybe watch a bit of TV before going to bed. It isn't always easy, but it's well worth it because I enjoy skating so much.

What is your favorite food?
Klara Lippick, 11, Peoria, Ill.

I have a lot of favorite foods, but right now I'd have to say a turkey sub or pizza.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment? Was this something you set out to do, or were you pleasantly surprised?
Kelly Rogers, 14, Arvada, Colo.

My first accomplishment that I remember was finally getting my double Axel. I couldn't wait to have that jump, so when it finally happened I was very excited. Of course, winning nationals was awesome and something I'll never forget.

How much have you sacrificed to get to where you are now?
Angie Fishler, 14, Salt Lake City, Utah

I guess in some ways I've sacrificed my social life. I miss a lot of the social times in high school, like not being able to participate in after-school sports and functions. But I wouldn't change a thing because I love to skate and it's a choice I'm making.

What is it like being so well- known in the skating world? Do kids know about your accomplishments?
Emily Baker, 14, Feeding Hills, Mass.

I don't know how well-known I am in the skating world yet, since this will be my first year competing as a senior. As far as kids knowing my accomplishments, I know that the kids at my school really don't know what I do.

Which type of skating do you enjoy doing more, exhibitions or competitions?
An Vuong, 13, Reading, Pa.

At this point in my career I enjoy competitions because I like the challenge that it gives me and I also like the adrenaline rush.

Do you ever get really tired of practicing and training?
Taylor Galarnyk, 15, Eau Claire

I think that everyone has days when you're not up for your regular routine, but I just push myself forward because I know I will be better for it.

Did you have a role model you looked to when you were younger and just learning how to skate? If so, who?
Amanda Ceaser, 15, Bensenville, Ill.

When I first started skating at Delaware, when I was about 8, I remember looking up to Johnny Weir. He was just awesome and I loved to watch him jump. Of course I also looked up to Kristi Yamaguchi and Michelle Kwan, and many others.

What do you enjoy most about skating?
Robin Huntley, 15, Coopers Mills, Maine

The freedom I feel when I'm out on the ice. I also enjoy the challenge that skating gives me and the satisfaction of accomplishment. I also just enjoy being able to express myself through my skating.