SALT LAKE CITY — Before Nathan Chen became a household name in the Winter Olympics, he grew up on the rinks in Utah, where Tuesday night, a former coach sang praise for him both on and off the ice.
“He was inspired by the 2002 Olympics,” said Stephanee Grosscup. “All of us watching him grow up, we were watching a prodigy.”
Grosscup, who coached Chen from the age of 3 until 11, knew she was coaching someone special.
“It is very weird to find someone who has that focus and fearlessness at three and a half years old,” she said.
When you reach success — remember there are people from your journey clapping from afar. @nathanwchen coach knew he destined for greatness. Hear what she has to say about the Olympian on @KSL5TV @Olympics @NBCOlympics #Olympics #SaltLakeCity pic.twitter.com/rF2jjXDtRV
— Morgan Wolfe (@MorganWolfeKSL) February 9, 2022
Nathan Chen is writing history, one jump at a time.
“How glad we are we don’t have to compete with these kids these days because they are so amazing,” said Jozef Sabovcik.
Sabovcik, who won the Bronze medal in men’s figure skating in 1984, praised Chen’s technique.
“I mean, no one can touch him,” he said.
Grosscup said Chen’s focus off the ice is what will solidify his legacy.
“He is one of the kindest, most humble young men I think I have ever met in my entire life,” she said. “To see his dream develop and his focus and dedication, it is really something so special.”
A message to #NathanChen from one of his first coaches here in Salt Lake City⛸❄️@nathanwchen @Olympics @NBCOlympics @KSL5TV #olympics #FigureSkating pic.twitter.com/LpzxOWKrpt
— Morgan Wolfe (@MorganWolfeKSL) February 9, 2022
Chen’s next event is Wednesday night. That will determine if he skates off with the Gold medal.