GNA CAMPUS – Greater Nanticoke Area sophomore Kiele Maday has dedicated a significant portion of her life to figure skating. In a recent conversation with her, The GNA Insider explored her inspiring journey—a story filled with both formidable challenges and extraordinary achievements.
Kiele’s passion for skating shines through as she shares the obstacles she has faced along the way, as well as the milestones she has reached, showcasing her perseverance and determination in the pursuit of her dreams.
What inspired you to start skating?
I joined a Learn to Skate class when I was little. What inspired me to keep skating was seeing the higher groups do cool jumps and spins.
How old were you when you first started skating?
I started skating at six years old. So I have been skating for ten years now.
What is the hardest thing about figure skating?
The hardest thing about figure skating is not doing well at a competition after working hard.
Do you get dizzy? How do you deal with it?
I do get dizzy, but I learned to just get used to it and keep going. If I do get too dizzy, I will just look at something still to get that focus back.
Do you have a signature move? If so, what is it?
My signature move would probably be an axel jump because that is my most consistent jump in all of my programs.
Has competing as a figure skater allowed you to travel? If so, what are some places you have visited?
Competing has allowed me to travel. Some places include York, Skaneateles, Hershey, and a few other places.
Have you ever won a competition? Tell us what it is like to see your hard work pay off.
I have won before. It feels so good knowing that my hard work that I put into this sport all year pays off.
How often do you compete?
I compete about once every two months.
How often do you practice?
I practice about 4 to 5 days a week for about 2 hours.
Do you have a favorite figure skater?
My favorite figure skater is Jason Brown. My favorite part about his skating is the emotion he puts into it.
What are your future aspirations in the sport? Do you plan on skating after high school?
I plan on getting as good as I possibly can in the sport and continuing to skate after high school as a hobby.
What has figure skating taught you about yourself?
Figure skating taught me that I can overcome challenges.
Do you have anyone you consider inspirational to you? If so, who, and how have they inspired you?
The people who inspire me the most in skating are all my friends there. We are always pushing each other to be the best we can.
What is your favorite class at GNA?
My favorite class is biology.
Who is your favorite teacher?
My favorite teacher is Mr. Carey.
What is something most people don’t know about what it takes to be a figure skater?
Most people don’t realize how complex all the moves are.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I am also a dancer.
What advice do you have for someone considering taking up the sport?
One piece of advice I would give them is to have patience.
