Rachael and Tom learning how to curl. With Figure Skating Team Leader Lorrie Parker at practice.

Thursday, February 18, 2010

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE QUAD?

After speaking with my wife and getting a long e-mail from my mother-in-law, it occurred to me that my audience for this blog is larger than the 6,000 coaches of the Professional Skaters Association and may have questions about what makes a man choose to attempt the quad. If I were writing a research paper, this is where I would insert a footnote so that the reader had a more detailed understanding of the facts.

So here's a little background:

In 2002, when Plushenko was 19, he attempted the quad toe in the short program and fell on it (by today's standards it would have been downgraded) and he ended up in 4th place after the short program. Back then, the judges used a base mark to reward risk. If a skater tried a quad and missed, the judges took the deduction from the higher base mark before assigning the technical score. That does not happen anymore in figure skating. Plushenko ended up with the silver medal at that Olympics.

If Plushenko had fallen on Tuesday, he would have lost 15.8 technical points (plus an undetermined number of component points due to the fall). If you subtract just those technical points from his score, it would have totaled 75.05 and that would have placed him 12th, out of medal contention.

Last year the three men (Abbott, Mroz and Bradley) I coached all had different strategies with regards to the quad when they competed. Even though Jeremy landed his quad toe in his short and long programs the year before at the World Championships (and placed 11th due to other mistakes), I decided he would not risk it the following season in order for him to gain confidence in his second year in the senior grand prix. This proved to be a good decision for him as he ended up winning Cup of China, the Grand Prix final and his first national title without it. Even though he did not do the quad in those competitions, he continued to train it all year. In April after worlds, he successfully completed the quad toe in the long program at the World Team Trophy.

If you follow the comments of all of the male figure skaters in the press, everyone of them will tell you when you add the quad to the long program it changes (in a very big way) the mental demands of the program. This is especially true in the new judging system because skaters can no longer "rest" during footwork or spins. In the short program, it is even more of a risk because there are fewer total elements to the program and the rules about the contents of the program do not allow the skater to make up lost points on the other jumping passes or change their program in other ways.

I would never question a skater or coach's choice to include a quad in either the program, but I do have tremendous admiration for Plushenko because he trained the quad to do it in both programs not only in Vancouver at 27, but also in 2006 in Torino when he was 23.

Since 1994, every Men's Olympic Champion has completed the quad to win the title as have the silver medalists. With the exception of one year, the bronze medalists have all attempted one quad or done it flawed (with the exception of Tim Goebel, who completed 4 quads: one in the short program and 3 in the long program in 2002 to win the bronze medal).

Last I checked the Olympic motto was faster, higher, stronger....not risk-freeer, safer, lesser. When you add the suffix "er" to a word it means "more." If a man wins the Olympic figure skating title without a quad will our sport be advancing in the spirit of the Olympics?

So those are the facts. You have read them and have a chance to form your own opinion before tonight's long program.

66 comments:

  1. I just want to say that I very much enjoy your informative and insightful blog - your clear eyed and objective analysis, as well as your professional knowledge is very much appreciated!

    I look forward to reading more of your analysis on men's figure skating in Vancouver :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. I can't agree with WENDYBIRD more.
    I don't know if Daisuke Takahashi tries the quad tomorrow. But we Japanese fans of him know that he has practiced it very hard and he has a strong desire to do it at the Olympic. We root for Daisuke whether he will try it or not, because that is the decision he makes.
    I am so glad that the coach of Rachael is such a smart person as you.

    I definitely keep supporting you and Rachael.

    Tamami

    ReplyDelete
  3. WElcome to the world of blogging! I read with interest your blog and commenters comments. Personally, I have nothing to add with regards to skating, quads, etc... just blogging. Keep the faith. If they post without traceability those of us who read it just think them crackpots, and trolls. Defending every little negative remark in comments, will get tedious after awhile,and might agitate you in this already highly stressful time. Me thinks this is their goal?

    Just do what your doing. I enjoy coming here and reading all about the olympics and training (yes even the quad). Can women do a quad? What is after the quad? when does it become physically impossible to do more rotations?

    ReplyDelete
  4. Lifetime Radon Solutions, Inc. is Wisconsin and Minnesota's premier radon mitigation and radon testing service.​imp source

    ReplyDelete
  5. Radonisasilentkiller.It’sacolorless,odorlesswhichnaturallyoccursinthegroundbelowus.overhere

    ReplyDelete
  6. From traditional limos to classic rides, all our cars are of first-class quality with certified drivers for our client's safety.Party Bus Rental Orlando

    ReplyDelete
  7. We are Wisconsin’s best radon mitigation and radon testing specialists.With over 20 years of combined experience.this page

    ReplyDelete
  8. Presence of termites in one's home can lead to disastrous consequences, if not taken care of within appropriate time.Deemak Control Lahore

    ReplyDelete
  9. Kaun Banega Crorepati Head office number, now you can feel free to call.kbc Head Office Number

    ReplyDelete
  10. Eat-and-go commerce is the NO.1 eat-and-see community that listens to the voices of users and always strives to create a fair Toto culture.토토사이트

    ReplyDelete
  11. NJCarService fleet of car service in NJ offers freedom to travel across the NJ city with style and comfort.best luxury car service nj

    ReplyDelete
  12. Discount brokers are simply stockbrokers who provide their services at a lower rate compared to full-service brokers.top stock brokers in india

    ReplyDelete
  13. Kbc Lottery Winner 2022 list for information online like Kaun Banega Crorepati Lucky draw Winners 2022.Kaunbanega coror pati winner list 2022

    ReplyDelete
  14. Repair in UAE provides 24/7 emergency services related to property maintenance services covering plumbing,appliances.Siemens Service Center

    ReplyDelete
  15. A report in the Financial times has suggested that the United Kingdom's largest inland port and logistics park is to be developed near Doncaster. The term inland port has two Pilotage Chittagong port inland waterway, or an inland site carrying out the same functions as a seaside port. The suggested site for the UK'S largest inland port at Doncaster is the later of the two. Doncaster is perfectly positioned for effective rail and road links and connections to the nearby sea ports of Hull and Grimsby.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Etimaad International Pvt. Ltd is one of the emerging Real Estate company in Pakistan.nova city

    ReplyDelete
  17. A good termites for one'ohydrates dwelling bring about regrettable effects, if he does not dealt with around ideal time.Termite Control Lahore

    ReplyDelete
  18. Wow, What an Outstanding post. I found this too much informatics. It is what I was seeking for. I would like to recommend you that please keep sharing such type of info.If possible, Thanks. 먹튀사이트

    ReplyDelete
  19. The content is utmost interesting! I have completely enjoyed reading your points and have come to the conclusion that you are right about many of them. You are great, and your efforts are outstanding! 1095 nw st lucie blvd

    ReplyDelete
  20. That is really nice to hear. thank you for the update and good luck. บาคาร่า

    ReplyDelete
  21. What a fantabulous post this has been. Never seen this kind of useful post. I am grateful to you and expect more number of posts like these. Thank you very much. 안전놀이터

    ReplyDelete
  22. Simplibuy has you covered with a huge range of medical products, diagnostic imaging supplies and healthcare products for customers in Toronto.Revital-Ox

    ReplyDelete
  23. We firmly believe that the best health comes from regular checkups, preventive medicine, and early intervention.seabrook primary care doctor

    ReplyDelete
  24. Asiath999 online gambling website Easy to play for real money No minimum deposit-withdrawal.บาคาร่าออนไลน์

    ReplyDelete
  25. We only provide various major recommendations, and only Toto sites that are guaranteed to be eaten and run without any occurrences are carefully selected and accurately recommended to you.메이저사이트

    ReplyDelete
  26. Remote broadband network access is growing in locations outside of the workplace or home.Etisalat internet package home

    ReplyDelete
  27. Regal Marketing Network is among the fastest-growing marketing network around the world having its offices in many cities of Pakistan.Silver city Islamabad

    ReplyDelete
  28. Online, you may purchase award-winning coffee beans, ground coffee, and compostable coffee pods.Local coffee beans

    ReplyDelete
  29. We offer specialised sameday courier services to firms in a variety of industrial sectors to and from any UK location.Legal courier services

    ReplyDelete
  30. PG SLOT is considered one of the best. online slot games That has been very popular PGSLOT from people all over the world that has it all. pg

    ReplyDelete
  31. Monte Carlo 선씨티게임 모바일바둑이환전 온라인사설바둑이게임주소 in Monaco

    ReplyDelete
  32. An teak table set is a short and smooth way to get a coordinated search for your outdoor space, patio or balcony. Choose from a extensive variety of sizes, substances and styles – from neat, café-like patio sets to sturdy, wood garden eating units!teak table sets.

    ReplyDelete
  33. We are really grateful for your blog post. You will find a lot of approaches after visiting your post. I was exactly searching for. Thanks for such post and please keep it up. Great work. mustang Leather Interior

    ReplyDelete
  34. buy elife ultra and enjoy upto AED in free benefits.http://applywifi.net/

    ReplyDelete
  35. This mode of gambling, facilitated through technological advances, multiplied Internet availability and possession of Internet-enabled gadgets, isn't a separate form of playing pastime.먹튀검증.

    ReplyDelete
  36. While offline playing centers have players crowded round roulette tables and poker tables, there is no such social stress with regards to playing online.먹튀검증.

    ReplyDelete
  37. The HCPL provide outstanding business consulting services through team work.HCPL

    ReplyDelete
  38. We are a diverse team of professionals with laser–sharp focus and passion. We are award-winning marketers, designers, and developers.social media strategies

    ReplyDelete
  39. Same day Covid 19 PCR Testing Center ensures availability of the results within the time frame. covid test

    ReplyDelete
  40. 4K TV Box, Premium Wi-fi Router & Phone OnDemand Movies & Regional TV AddOn Free Calls to UAE Landlines.Etisalat internet package home

    ReplyDelete
  41. One-stop online entertainment | 24-hour FPS.足球貼士

    ReplyDelete
  42. The sound of the mice is very disturbing. Rats raise a voice of squeaking, hissing and chattering. rats can convey separately by making noise and voice.
    bgc season 10



    ReplyDelete
  43. Welcome to Pro Pharmacy Store. We are one of the most trusted online pharmacies and one of the largest visited site in the USA,Australia and other western market.levitra 20mg tablets

    ReplyDelete
  44. We are a natural organic plant-based soap company, an alternative to the major brands that support the vegan and gluten free community.daily luxury household soap bars

    ReplyDelete
  45. Another 50 Cent name is Ferrari, also known by many. He was born on July 6, 1975, in Queens, New York. He has already made a name for himself as a rapper in the world of entertainment. how tall is 50 cent

    ReplyDelete
  46. Most of the people nowadays ignore carpet cleaning because they are fully occupied with their daily work and barely have time to clean. In addition, the process requires a lot of time and effort. carpet washing in dubai UAE

    ReplyDelete
  47. Dragon Tiger, A table game in which winning or losing is determined by the size of the board.joker123

    ReplyDelete
  48. . Special chemicals and equipment: These professionals use special chemicals that are not otherwise known or even accessible to the common man. Moreover, the commercial equipment used for this is also quite expensive and allows for a more thorough process.carpet cleaning near me UAE


    ReplyDelete
  49. If we talk about this reality show, it is a game show. In this show, a game of knowledge is played. Questions related to general knowledge are asked and the one to answer quickly gets to enter the finals. Contestants in finals get to win cash rewards with every correct answer in a given time. kbc Head Office Number 2023

    ReplyDelete
  50. Our senior consultants have years of experience from many of the most respected medical institutions of the world, with highest professional degrees in their respective specialties. limo service in Hamptons

    ReplyDelete
  51. Ahdena. Digital Creator. ✨Revitalizing Faith Continuing to open my heart to the beauty of Islam.Eid & Ramadan Decoration

    ReplyDelete
  52. If you have a automobile that is taking over space otherwise you need it eliminated for some other reason, gives Toronto Junk car removal Services. We will come to you in your personal customized Junk Car Removal Services.Toronto Junk car removal

    ReplyDelete
  53. If you have a automobile that is taking over space otherwise you need it eliminated for some other reason, gives Toronto Junk car removal Services. We will come to you in your personal customized Junk Car Removal Services.Mississauga Junk car removal

    ReplyDelete
  54. Iron deficiency anemia is common anemia. It is a condition that causes a lack of adequate red blood cells. Besides, these cells transmit oxygen to the tissue of the body. Iron deficiency anemia occurs because of deficient iron.icd 10 anemia

    ReplyDelete
  55. The process of moving can be stressful, we have our dedicated teams to ensure the whole process is smooth, quick, efficient, and professional from start to finish. Prompt & Reliable Removal Services Wembly.
    Whether you’re moving home, office, or to or from university, we have the package to suit your every need.

    Website: https://prdistribution.co.uk/service/removal-services-wembley/

    ReplyDelete
  56. Nonetheless, mainstream operating systems for computers and consumer electronic devices, as well as software media players, support the MP4 format.doramasmp4

    ReplyDelete
  57. A sump siphon is a little siphon that is regularly introduced in the most minimal region of a home, for example, a cellar or unfinished plumbing space, and its motivation is to eliminate overabundance water or sewage. Notwithstanding sump siphons, we give an assortment of wastewater siphon administrations and establishments.Sump pump services

    ReplyDelete
  58. Tents likewise permit you to tweak each part of your big day. Acquire the ideal dance floor, redo your lighting, choose your place settings and curate your menu. Many wedding settings limit you to utilizing just their merchants. Try not to be kept locked down to another person's standards. It's your day. Make it your fantasy wedding.tentenverhuur amersfoort

    ReplyDelete
  59. Bade Achhe Lagte Hain Watch Online Today Episode, Bade Achhe Drama Full Episode dailymotion aaj ka episode, Watch Bade Achhe Lagte Hain Sony Tv Desi Serial All Episodes in HD

    ReplyDelete
  60. Kepala Bergetar Malay Episod Tonton Pencuri Movie dan download free Malay Episode Astro Ria Tv3 Drama Melayu Live Episode.

    ReplyDelete
  61. Tonton Kepala Bergetar Videos Melayu Drama Pencuri Movies Astro Ria Tv3 Drama Myinfotaip Live Episod Dfm2u Terkini Update.

    ReplyDelete
  62. This article gives the light in which we can watch the truth. This is an extremely pleasant one and gives in-depth data on this site. A debt of gratitude is in order for this pleasant article.
    Keep Sharing.

    ReplyDelete