Figure skater, Erin Bridges, breaks the air as she glides across the ice under her feet. She jumps off the ice and pulls her leg around into a beautiful double axel. Since three years old, Bridges has been in the rink. Skating through the ice, splitting the cold air, Erin performs her routines elegantly.

Both of Bridges’ parents grew up on the ice-her father hockey, her mother figure skating. Therefore, she has been destined for figure skating as the joy it brings her is unmatchable. 

“I like the creativity and how you can make your own programs; it’s tailored to you.”

Bridges not only enjoys the creativity in skating, she also finds comfort in putting together a routine. She works with her coach to put more difficult elements or skills into her routine. When planning her routines, world famous figure skaters inspire her to keep going, including: Alexandra Trusova, Aliona Kostornia, and Kamila Valieya.

“I like watching young girls breaking records which they would never think a woman would be able to do.” 

Her whole life, Bridges has been improving on her skills and she believes there has been lots of mental growth. 

“I’ve definitely strengthened because of the sport. You have to have confidence and I’ve realized that.”

Due to most competitions being in Massachusetts, Bridges has to travel to compete. Bridges competes in the junior level (the second highest level), so preparing for these competitions takes months of hard work. 

“[When performing], I try to block out everything and go one arm at a time. If you mess up, you can’t let that affect you; it’s fun, and exciting.”

When Bridges arrives in the arena, she is allowed twenty minutes to warm up right before she performs on the ice. Before her routine, she dresses in a skating dress, ties her hair up into a tight bun, and puts on a full face of makeup; she’s ready to set the ice on fire. 

A figure skater who not only takes pride in her work, but will strive to make a difference in the skating world: Erin Bridges.