Dear Parents,
I wanted to take a moment to personally address the recent tryouts and share some reflections on the decision-making process. I know how important this time is for each skater, and I want to acknowledge the dedication, hard work, and passion that all of the athletes put into their performances. The decision-making process was incredibly challenging, and I want to be transparent about how difficult it is under these circumstances to try to finalize a roster.
As many of you are aware, we are operating in a landscape where the borders are open, and athletes have more flexibility than ever before in terms of choosing training centers and competitive teams. This has brought a lot of opportunities, but it has also created a unique challenge for coaches like myself. The sheer number of talented skaters trying out has made it difficult to balance the need for team cohesion with giving each athlete the appropriate developmental space they need.
This year, I had to make many difficult decisions quickly. While I always strive to be as fair and thorough as possible, the reality is that these decisions also have a practical element. For the skaters who did not make the final roster, I wanted to give them as much time as possible to explore alternative options with other centers. It’s not easy to have these conversations, and I want to make sure that every athlete feels supported as they move forward, no matter where that may be.
Please know that these decisions are in no way a reflection of a skater’s value or potential. Every athlete has something special to offer, and in many cases, the cuts were not based on skill alone but on how each individual fit with the current team structure and dynamics. There are so many variables that come into play, and it’s important to remember that development in sports is a long-term journey.
I appreciate your understanding and support as we move forward, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated group of athletes. If you have any questions or would like further feedback, I am more than happy to discuss this with you personally.
Thank you once again for your trust and commitment. Together, we will continue to help these athletes grow and excel in their sport.
Best regards,
Paul