Every athlete wants to be the best, but few live up to that standard. However, those who show incredible talent and determination get to show off their skills every four years at the Winter Olympic Games. This year, the games were hosted in Milan, Italy, with multiple different sites for different events. With many first Olympic athletes competing for the US, they (US) were able to accomplish the most gold medals in the history of the Olympic Games, achieving 12 gold to go along with a total of 33 medals combined. Jack Horrocks ’26 found ice hockey his favorite sport to watch, with the men’s and women’s team winning gold.
“It was really cool to see how both teams were able to win in overtime,” Horrocks said. “For the women, they had to score a goal within the last few minutes to force overtime, and with me, they had to prevent Canada from scoring for an entire period to go to overtime. In the end, they were both able to score game-winning 3-on-3 overtime goals to secure the title.”
While hockey is one of the most popular sports to watch during the Olympics, other sports are just as important. Ice Dance may not be the most talked-about sport, but it has just as many stakes as any other. In fact South Graduate Emilea Zingus participated in her first Olympics with multiple personal record performances, leaving her in 5th at her first Olympics. Latin teacher David Smith has faith in the team to reach the podium in future Olympics and competitions to come.
“She’s only 23, and this is her first major competition,” Smith said. “Although they weren’t able to reach any medal contention this year, they still will have plenty more opportunities with people in her event being able to compete until their late 30’s. She should hold her head high and be proud of her effort.”
With 116 medal competitions covering everything from Bobsled to Curling, the US has been competitive in nearly every event. According to CBS Sports, the US has achieved its best finishes in 13 different events, proving that they are on the rise for Winter Events. Matthew Bartoszewicz ’27 thinks that due to the increased popularity of the Winter Games, more athletes are pursuing careers in the unique events.
“The US had over 200 athletes this year compete in the games in different events,” Bartoszewicz said. “Compared to 50 years ago, when we had less than 100, we have really grown in participation. I think when little kids see all the fun and support given to Olympians, more and more athletes throughout different generations have wanted to participate.”
