Retired Filipino figure skating star Michael Martinez is relishing his new role in the local figure skating scene.
After stepping away from competition six years ago, Martinez has found a renewed passion for the sport—this time as a coach. Slowly but surely, he is enjoying and embracing the responsibility of mentoring the next generation of skaters.
“I really get to witness their growth and achievements, especially when they win medals. I never thought about it this way before,” said the 28-year-old Martinez.
Having last competed at the PyeongChang Olympics, Martinez transitioned to coaching in the United States three years ago. However, it was only last month that he began training young skaters in the Philippines, following an invitation from Philippine Skating Union president Nikki Cheng.
“I used to just focus on training and improving myself. But now, as a coach, I realize how big of a responsibility it is,” said Martinez.
His coaching journey coincided with a special event at the MOA Ice Rink in Pasay, where American Olympic figure skaters and U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame inductees Maia and Alex Shibutani conducted a clinic for young hopefuls. The visit of the Shibutani siblings, who are two-time Olympic medalists, brought excitement to nearly a hundred local figure skating enthusiasts and athletes.
Among those in attendance were Martinez and his three students—Mira and Kristel So, and Cheska Lozada.
Fondly known as the “ShibShibs” during their competitive years, Maia and Alex’s visit was made possible through the U.S. Embassy.
“As a coach, you’re constantly learning and studying. When I was a skater, I wasn’t doing that at all,” Martinez admitted.
Martinez holds the distinction of being the first skater from Southeast Asia—and from a tropical country—to qualify for the Winter Olympics. He was also the lone representative for the Philippines at the 2014 Winter Olympics and one of only two athletes representing the country at the 2018 Winter Games.
“As a coach, you don’t just train—you study, learn, attend and conduct seminars, and do everything you can for your students,” Martinez added. “I’m really excited for them, and I hope they take it all in.”