MONTREAL - Most Montrealers dream of digging their toes into the Caribbean’s warm sand around this time of year. One Dominican teenager prefers digging his own into the ice rink.
Nelson Sanchez may have grown up in the Dominican Republic, but the 14-year-old has shown a natural talent for figure skating since arriving in Canada four years ago.
“I miss the beach, for sure, but I love skating outside,” said Sanchez, who is Randy’s Rooky of the week. “I prefer it when it's cold.”
Sanchez embraced his newfound sport and the rewards followed quickly. He started winning competitions and qualified for the Quebec Games
“He was always the first one the ice and last one off it,” coach Deidre Gordon-Foster said. “He was always here and he was always driven and he really always, always, wanted to skate so I think it was his self-motivation that got that far.”
Sanchez started by copying other figure skaters, but on hockey skates. When coaching finally came, his sheer determination and deep passion helped spur a natural ability that continues to bloom.
“I love competition,” Sanchez said. “I love performing in front of people and the judges. I find it really fun.”
We are always on the lookout for new talent, so if you know a great amateur athlete in your community, email Randy today and they may end up being profiled as one of Randy's Rookies.
