Stojko returning to compete as amateur

[leap of faith]

http://www.tsn.ca/classic/news_story.asp?id=39545

I just got word from my sister at TSN. It came down on the newswire. More info to come.

[BJY4EVR]

I just heard the same thing... he must be bored.

[mikey]

Oh great... Just what skating needs these days: more kung-fu...

[gandalf]

I hate to say it but I hope this comeback is short-lived.

[leap of faith]

From Skate Canada:

April 29, 2003 - Ottawa, ON) - Elvis Stojko and Skate Canada announced today that the three-time World Champion, two-time Olympic Silver Medalist and seven-time Canadian Champion will be returning to competitive skating for the 2003-2004 season.

Elvis Stojko retired from the competitive ranks following the 2002 Olympics. At the time of his retirement, Elvis stated that he had accomplished most of his goals as an eligible skater and needed time to pursue other skating opportunities away from competition.

Elvis has been very active these past several months doing successful tours and shows, both in Canada and the US.

Now that Elvis has had time to consider his future, he recognizes that he has a burning desire to compete again as an eligible skater.

After being away for 13 months, Elvis is looking forward to competing again and has a new perspective and renewed energy to continue his competitive career.

Elvis feels he is skating better than ever and he has already started to train in anticipation for the coming season. His programs will now be choreographed by Randy Gardner and he will be working with a new coach whose name will be announced shortly.

Elvis has stated that he is truly excited about having the opportunity to once again compete for Canada.

"We are more than happy to welcome Elvis back to the competitive ranks," said Pam Coburn, Skate Canada CEO. "He has great intensity and drive and is an excellent role model for all competitive skaters both in Canada and around the world."

[Emanfan]

Poor Emanuel!

This is a ridiculous idea...with the likes of Plushy, Yags (if he comes back), Honda, Goebel etc., the competition has moved beyond his capabilities. Why do this? He wasn't really competitive when he left.

[Greek Chic]

I really missed Elvis. I hope he makes a great comeback. I can't wait to find out who his new coach will be.

Welcome back Elvis, now Rod Black will be extremely happy when it comes to the Mens competitions.

Hopefully I will get to see him at Skate Canada this year.

[lotusland]

Many years ago Mr. Stoyko complained on national television that the "old guard should get out of the way and let the young blood through." Perhaps someone should rerun the interview for him. ;)

[Debbie S]

Originally posted by leap of faith

Elvis has stated that he is truly excited about having the opportunity to once again compete for Canada.

"We are more than happy to welcome Elvis back to the competitive ranks," said Pam Coburn, Skate Canada CEO. "He has great intensity and drive and is an excellent role model for all competitive skaters both in Canada and around the world."

Given how Sandhu and Buttle performed at Worlds, I imagine Skate Canada is thrilled. Even w/o a quad, Elvis is bound to place higher than the others. Personally, I'm not sure Elvis is totally non-competitive right now. Remember, at '01 Worlds, he was injured, and I believe he also had some injuries in the fall leading up to the Olys. He did OK in the SP at the Olys - I thought he was undermarked. He just needs to get his skills back - of course, that could be a tall order given that he hasn't exactly challenged himself technically this year, but IF he can get back to where he was in 2000 (remember, he won a silver at Worlds), he could contend for a medal at next year's Worlds. Of course, it also depends on how others skate.

I'm starting to think about going to 4CCs next year - uh, oh, I better stop myself! :)

[Alexeiskate]

Hey, it's gonna be fun. Like Debbie S said, Sandhu and Buttle did not have a great outing in D.C. so maybe most of Canada is thrilled that he's back. I bet watching an "oldster" like MK performed so well this year set his competitive heart racing a little bit. It's great that he will be working with a new coach and choreographer, although Randy Gardner wouldn't have been my first choice. I know Nicolai seems to be overused but I think he can give Elvis some great footwork to play with. At any rate, Elvis better have a consistent quad, because all three men on the podium this year landed quads in both the short and long.

[jcspkbfan]

Gee, I'd love to see Rod Black's face when he hears this news! :lol:

Seriously, though, I wonder whether Skate Canada put any pressure on Elvis to come back next year--I'm guessing probably not considering how much Elvis loves to compete and how there are zero prospects for him to do that in the pro ranks right now since B&K turned pro--but considering there aren't really any Canadian medal prospects for 2004 Worlds next year, I have to wonder...it will be interesting to see Elvis work with a new choreographer!

I also wonder whether or not this news will make CTV/TSN change its mind about not broadcasting Worlds or any other international event next season--that would be very good news, IMO!

OTOH, this news does make that "farewell" tribute to Elvis at 2002 Canadians look kind of silly in hindsight, though...

[Greek Chic]

Originally posted by jcspkbfan
OTOH, this news does make that "farewell" tribute to Elvis at 2002 Canadians look kind of silly in hindsight, though...

You know I never really though about that. Now that I think if it, it does look kind of silly.

[vesperholly]

Zero prospects? Stojko toured with Champions on Ice last year and this year. Didn't he tour with Skate the Nation last year as well? There are so few pro competitions anyways.

Stojko should stay the hell away from the eligible circuit. He was fading by 2002 but now... it's one thing to keep coming back, reinventing yourself, offering something new, improving and winning - then I'd say a skater can deservedly stay in - but he's done none of those things.

Jocelyn

[luckiest1]

Jocelyn,

Perhaps you should get your facts straight before you post. I realize we all have our favourites and our least favourites, but nastiness is uncalled for.

Elvis has toured with COI for many years. He did not tour with Skate the Nation last year. He DID tour with his own show, called SK8 With Elvis and Friends. He did not compete this year as a pro, by choice. To insinuate that Elvis is not "offering something new", "improving and winning"....watch your tapes again if you need proof. Since '98 he has done nothing but. No, he didn't come back from his injury and win everything , but he certainly came back and proved himself time and time again. I was lucky enough to be in attendance a few of those times. I look forward to being in attendance again! :D

Elvis Stojko - Through The Years (http://www.stojko.ca.tc)

[singerskates]

8-) Wow, Elvis is really hooked. He's back training again getting ready to compete this fall. Wow, now he's got to try for that quad lutz in combination with a triple loop if he wants to win and do his thing with the artistry. Better not change himself. I like Elvis as he is. No phoney balony stuff. Wish there was a category for Elvis, Todd and gang. Not regular competitive, not pro but something in between. What about a category called the Masters. They're not retired but not doing all the competitions the kids( 30 and under) do. It would be cool if the Elvis' and Todds could join us adult skaters competing at our competitions but they would be the head liners who get the fans in the doors. I just hope Elvis hasn't bit off more than he can chew. The mind is willing but the body doesn't always respond after 30. Regular competitive is not the same as when he left. But as long as he's having fun with it, that's wonderful to hear that he's in the competitive rink again.

Brigitte

[Arsenette]

Personally I can't stand the Michael Jordan thing of retiring.. now wait.. I'm back.. no.. I'm retiring.. now wait.. :roll:

The only thing I would say on this is that if he wants to compete and places better than what Canada has now (IMO - not much) then go for it. Earn his spot in - not give it to him because he's "Elvis".. if he can beat Sandhu and Buttle.. Good for him.. if not, he better not complain. That's all - nothing "given" - it has to be earned.

[jcspkbfan]

I know Elvis has done quite a bit of touring, but I meant to say there's not a lot of possibilities for him to compete as a pro skater--Elvis just seems to love competing too much to give it up altogether (which he may have to do if he doesn't come back to the eligible ranks!) Maybe if there was the same pro competitive circuit as there was in the mid-'90s, Elvis would feel differently, but there's not. :(

And considering the hatchet job CBC did on their broadcast of Elvis' tour and the fact COI isn't being televised this year at all, there haven't been a lot of opportunities for Elvis fans to see him on TV this season, either.

While I also feel that once a skater claims he/she is going to retire, he/she should stay retired, I also have to admit that love him or hate him, Elvis is still a household name in Canada (something that, sadly, we can't say about any of the other currently-eligible skaters in this country) and people will tune in to see him skate. And if an Elvis comeback persuades CTV/TSN to change its mind about not broadcasting Worlds or any other international events next season, I think that's great news for all Canadian skating fans! :)

[singerskates]

The only thing I would say on this is that if he wants to compete and places better than what Canada has now (IMO - not much) then go for it. Earn his spot in - not give it to him because he's "Elvis".. if he can beat Sandhu and Buttle.. Good for him.. if not, he better not complain. That's all - nothing "given" - it has to be earned.

Well, yeah. Elvis wouldn't have it any other way. Anyway, maybe if Elvis doesn't win Canadians, he'll see that it's really time to move on but as long as he beats out the rest of the guys, well it's fair game. Age doens't mean a thing. It's what the heart desires that matters. If he desires to win and he's not hurt, Elvis will win Canadians once again. Now as far as Worlds goes, it just might be more fun for Elvis to claw his way up to the podium and then be instantly thought of as being podium matterial. It's going to be fun for we who love to watch skating and for us that skate. Elvis is an inspiration to us adult skaters here in Canada.

Brigitte

[calypso56]

I'm not happy about Elvis returning to competition. It's way past time for him to move on to the next phase of his life.

[Isabelle]

:roll: is all I have to say.

[professordeb]

I am over the moon, someone pinch me to tell me this is true!!
I have been an Elvis fan for years and was sad to see him go. I watched this past season as both of our top men struggled, for different reasons. I thought that E-man .... well let's not go there but when I thought about Jeff, there were times I wished Elvis was still around so the pressure would be off Jeff as he learned his quad and perfected his triple axel. You know, pressure on Elvis while E-man didn't have to take the heat over the past few years, supposedly giving E-man the opportunity to blossom. Unfortunately that didn't seem to happen. I felt sorrow for Jeff, not having a champion in whose shadow he could skate and become "geat" much like Orser for Browning and Browning for Elvis. Who knows, maybe with pressure back on Elvis, both E-man and Jeff will be able to get their acts just the way they want.
On another note, I am now going to have to hold my breath until it is announced if Elvis is doing GP events. I ordered my ticket for Skate Canada in November of last year and now the thought that Elvis might be there thrills me to bits. :D Here's hoping and praying so cause I have a decent seat this time.

til later.
Deb (who is tickled pink with joy!

[missflick]

I dunno. I am mixed about this. Personally, I was hoping he would go on and do something different-I could see him in the movies for example. But if this is what he wants, then good luck. He will need it.:lol:

[Annes]

Gaaaaaaaaaa!
I don't know if that scream is of joy or desperation.

It's interesting. Although Sandu and Buttle didn't fare too well at Worlds, I think both of them could beat Stojko on their good days. It should be interesting.

[icyboid]

The King is back! :D

He's always struck me as the competitive type...I bet my boots would be itching to skate with the performances the "new guard" of Canadian men have been putting out. He's gonna show 'em how it's done. :D

[Artemis]

Mixed feelings here too. On the one hand I agree that if you say you're retired, you should be retired. Also, of all the "retired" skaters out there he isn't exactly on the top of my list for ones I'd like to see return to the eligible ranks.

OTH, with a new coach and a new choreographer, I'm optimistic about seeing a new Elvis. I think he pigenholed himself early in his competitive career, and somehow never managed to display the versatility that we know he's capable of. I know this versatility is hard to spot because of his recent offerings, but back in the mid-90s when he did ex programs like "Sweet Little Bells" and the Caruso number ... wow, if he could incorporate that in competition it would be fabulous!

I also think it's good for Elvis on a personal level. He's always been extremely driven by competition, and I can imagine that the pro life just doesn't suit him.

Anyway, I wish him well. (And maybe it will give Eman and Jeff a psychological kick in the pants too!)

[StarshineXavier]

Who is he trying to kid here? What does he really think he's going to accomplish other than making a complete @$$ of himself. The last year he was any good was in 2000, and he should've stopped after he last won a medal at the Worlds. I am completely disgusted that he wants to return, especially after he has said in the past that he retired so that the young skaters could have a chance on the world stage. Now he'll probably end up denying Emanuel/Jeff a chance to go to worlds again in 2004, because regardless of what he does, he WILL be overmarked by judges at Nationals. Also, he'll probably end up denying a chance to some up and comers on the National Team spots for the GP Events. How are they supposed to gain experience if he's taking those chances away from then. Grrr...........

[Francis71]

Wow this is exciting news. In my (never too humble opinion) if you are a three time world champion, two time olympic silver medalist - you should be able to compete for as long you want to. I didn't see a lot of passion for competing this past season and look forward to Elvis's return.

[Meg]

So what happens if he is defeated at Canadians?

And yes, it can very well happen.

Unfortunately, the injury in 1998 led to the deterioration in his quad. None of his jumps have been as reliable as they once were.

It's time for a new era of skaters. Too bad he doesn't seem to get it.

[supersk8er]

Originally posted by gandalf
I hate to say it but I hope this comeback is short-lived.

I could NOT agree with you more.

[TRAxel]

Way to go Elvis, there may be some here not impressed with you about returning... but I am willing to bet there are more that ARE impressed with your return. I am looking forward to you competing again!

Anyone who IS an Elvis fan and would like to discuss this further, please join Kingquad which has been in existence since November 1, 1998

Join KINGQUAD (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Kingquad/)

[luckiest1]

Originally posted by Artemis
OTH, with a new coach and a new choreographer, I'm optimistic about seeing a new Elvis. I think he pigenholed himself early in his competitive career, and somehow never managed to display the versatility that we know he's capable of. I know this versatility is hard to spot because of his recent offerings, but back in the mid-90s when he did ex programs like "Sweet Little Bells" and the Caruso number ... wow, if he could incorporate that in competition it would be fabulous!

And don't forget the Sarah Brightman exhibition piece he did later on, which few were lucky enough to see, unless they attended a live performance, as it was never aired on TV. If he could harness some of THAT into a competitive program.....wow. :D

Elvis Stojko - Through The Years (http://www.stojko.ca.tc)

[Skatingsarah]

Ya I read that on Canoe today, I'm not sure about this unless he's nice nailing his quad triples like ALL THE TIME. I dont know if he can compete with the likes of the russians etc. What bad new for the Canadians though! Emanuel and Fedor etc!
-Sarah

[Lise]

I don't see what the big deal is. I've written elsewhere that if Elvis wants to go to Worlds, he will have to earn it-the same way that Emanuel and Jeff will have to. I am of the opinion that at Nationals, the judges are not going to just hand him the title. This will give the incentive to Jeff and Emanuel to get ready for battle. I still think that Nationals will be very exciting since Jeff and Emanuel are thinking ahead to the Olympics in 2006 and will need to do well to place themselves in the hunt for a medal there.

This is reminding me a lot of when Josee returned. She did great internationally, but come Nats, just didn't do well. Last season, Wirtz and Wirtz came back but after being in 4th after the short, they knew that it would take come help from others to make the World team. With Elvis coming back, if Emanuel and Jeff both beat Elvis, it will mark that our men are competitive with the best of them.

On the other hand, it seems a little strange that he would come back after the whole tribute ctv and the skaters did. I hope that when he returns to the pro ranks, that another tribute will not be done.

[vesperholly]

Originally posted by luckiest1
Jocelyn,

Perhaps you should get your facts straight before you post. I realize we all have our favourites and our least favourites, but nastiness is uncalled for.

Elvis has toured with COI for many years. He did not tour with Skate the Nation last year. He DID tour with his own show, called SK8 With Elvis and Friends. He did not compete this year as a pro, by choice. To insinuate that Elvis is not "offering something new", "improving and winning"....watch your tapes again if you need proof. Since '98 he has done nothing but. No, he didn't come back from his injury and win everything , but he certainly came back and proved himself time and time again. I was lucky enough to be in attendance a few of those times. I look forward to being in attendance again! :D

Don't snipe at me. I asked a *question* about Skate the Nation. The only thing I stated that I knew was that he toured with COI - last year because I saw him (and have the photos to prove it) and this year because he is on the website.

I like some of Stojko's skating. His Kodo drums program and Dragon from 94 were very good. However, almost everything else has ranged from lukewarm to dreadful. "Artistic integrity" and "personal style" can only be used as excuses for poor posture, lack of extension, and choppy footwork.

Stojko is not my least favorite. I just wish he'd move on.

Jocelyn

[lBrokenAnkle]

Well, I am thrilled to hear Elvis is returning! Shocked, amazed, almost disbelieving but thrilled. I am sure that the pros drying up is part of it, but as others have mentioned, from 1998 to 2001 Elvis was really hampered by injury. My guess is that he found out he was healthy and pain free on the 97 city tour last year and that may have started him thinking he'd like to have a season or two where it was no longer an issue. I feel quite confident that he has the competive jumps in practice right now, competition is another story, of course, but he wouldn't make this decision without that in his pocket.

Laura

[duane]

wow, such angry, negative comments here!

i say more power to him. if he feels he can still compete, go for it. i mean, who would have thought that a 33 year old would be the top ranked male tennis player?

and, it's not like the "young guns" have been all that. other than plushenko, timmy, and yagudin (whose eligible future is still unknown), no one has been truly consistent over the years. and as stated, elvis--who was one of the most consistent skaters--was hampered by injury. if he is now 100% healthy, i wouldnt count him out!

[TRAxel]

Originally posted by duane
wow, such angry, negative comments here!

i say more power to him. if he feels he can still compete, go for it. i mean, who would have thought that a 33 year old would be the top ranked male tennis player?

and, it's not like the "young guns" have been all that. other than plushenko, timmy, and yagudin (whose eligible future is still unknown), no one has been truly consistent over the years. and as stated, elvis--who was one of the most consistent skaters--was hampered by injury. if he is now 100% healthy, i wouldnt count him out!

AMEN to that Duane!! :)

[mmandel]

Can you believe that he is coming out of retirement? Granted...he's 6 years younger than me, but he's made his mark in the history books and now he wants to made his mark in the history books as the oldest skater to... I have mixed feelings about this!!!

[vanillalatte]

Well, my first reaction was "he's got to be kidding", but the more I think about it, I'm starting agree with duane. No one except Plushenko had any consistency this season, not even Tim who only really got it together for Worlds. With his presentation and ability to sell a program, Elvis could have easily finish at least top 5 in DC with 7 triples and no quad.

Skate Canada has to be salivating right now considering that Emmanuel and Jeff didn't fare all that well at Worlds. Elvis will really push both of them to improve or lose their spots. I really love Emmanuel's skating, but even without a quad, Elvis is a better overall skater than either him or Jeff.

It's kind of like Michelle staying in. Yes, she's older than most of the other ladies, but right now, she's a better skater without the triple-triple than any of the other ladies who have them. As long as she continues to earn her spot on the World team, I'm going to be right there cheering her on.

And the same goes for Elvis.

[Scott]

If he wants to go ofr it all the more power to him. It will be fun to see him back on circuit! n
aybe the ole guy will show these younger fellas how it is really supposed to be done!! :D :D :D

[butterfly]

Sometimes skating is more like a disease than a sport or profession in the lives of these skaters. We see this in other sports as well. Why don't these wonderful, successful athletes leave with some grace...why must they be carried out. Elvis is a wonderful entertainer and should stay in the professional ranks and inspire young people in that venue. He will only disappoint them if he returns to competition.

[LTM]

Well, IF he can beat the "young guns" at Nationals more power to him.
Frankly the "young guns" were a tad spotty all season and it will be nice to watch a skater who's expression didn't resemble somebody going out to their own execution.
Young guns don't want him there, well you know what they have do then.
Beat him.

[arena_gal]

Why does he have to leave "eligible" competition? He's seen what life on the road is about, and it's well known that Elvis is the most intensely competitive guy around, why not return to the place where he can measure himself against the best in the world.

I'm thinking two things:

The pro competition circuit has taken a blow if Elvis doesn't want to participate in that format,

and,

May the best skater win. No one owes ANYTHING to Emanuel, Jeff, etc, and talk of stepping aside or retiring to give someone a "chance" is not what this sport should be about. Put down three clean programs and let the judges decide (OMG, what did I say :twisted: )

One little plea though : Elvis (and Elvis' mom), please, no more black costumes!

[jcspkbfan]

I just read on another board Elvis appeared on Canada AM this morning and announced his new coach was a woman named Linda Bridge. I missed the interview myself, but did anyone else catch it (and/or have any more information about Elvis' new coach, who I've never heard of before?)

[roogu]

Linda Bridge coaches current Jr. Natoinal Champion Kenny Rose at RTC here in Toronto, which coincidentally is based out of the Elvis Stojko Arena in Richmond Hill. I find it kind of interesting that he chose Linda as there are a few other more 'technical' coaches, I feel, at RTC like Neil Carpenter or Bob Emerson. I wonder how the kids at RTC feel about this.


I also find it funny that people here think they have the right to tell Elvis when to retire ....... granted that I think his return isn't the greatest idea, it's still his decision and unless you've been competing you heart out at the world level, have three world titles to your name ... maybe those of you who hammer Elvis for his decision should think twice ... perhaps then you have the qualifications to tell him what to and what not to do.

He loves the sport and has been doing it for at least 20 years I'd say. I myself have skated 14 years and only now comning into some of my best skating, especially at nationals. Most people I know can barely stick with something for a year, let alone 20.

[Emanfan]

Originally posted by roogu
I also find it funny that people here think they have the right to tell Elvis when to retire .......

No one is trying to "tell" Elvis when to retire. There are many who think the idea is stupid (I'm one of them), but if he thinks he can compete, it's absolutely none of my business. All the power to him!

I do think, however, that if anyone believes he CAN compete with the likes of Yagudin, Plushenko, Goebel, Honda, Joubert, Li etc. - they're wrong - IMHO of course.

[speedy]

Well, apparently no OTHER Canadian men's skater is able to compete with those guys either :lol: so let's kick it one more time Elvis, no harm in trying if you've got the balls to get back in. I'm glad to see it. I think you can only do so many COI's or Skate The Nation's before you get bored out of your mind and want to compete again -- not everybody has that option. I think Elvis will do fine...I'll be very interested in how he plays the ISU/WSF/Skate Canada/judging controversy issue now though if he's back in the political game again. :twisted:

[Alexeiskate]

Originally posted by Emanfan
I do think, however, that if anyone believes he CAN compete with the likes of Yagudin, Plushenko, Goebel, Honda, Joubert, Li etc. - they're wrong - IMHO of course.


Honda, Joubert, Li and even Goebel to some extent are all very inconsistent technical skaters. There was no way MW would have won LaLique and Nationals if Honda, Joubert and Goebel had done their jobs at their respective competitions.

I think Elvis will be satisfied that he's listening to his own heart and will be content with whatever the results will be.

[pittypat]

Originally posted by Isabelle
:roll: is all I have to say.


Ditto

[tollerfan]

Originally stated by LTM: Young guns don't want him there, well you know what they have do then. ITA! Earn your way! If Elvis has the desire and ambition to try and come back that's his decision, and I'll be delighted to see how he makes out! Whether he's successful or not, it won't change my opinion of the man or his character. I admire him greatly.

I'm very happy to hear that he is going to be using new choreographers, and can't wait to see what his new programs will be! I also hope he moves entirely away from the martial arts themes and shows us his "other side" in competition. He is capable of skating any style.

If I had my druthers, I'd love to see Kurt get involved with his choreography. I'm sure the two of them together could come up with some outstanding programs! As with some others here, I personally would not have thought of Randy Gardner for Elvis, but I'll sure be interested to see what he comes up with for him.

Well, Canadian men's skating this year is certainly going to be interesting! :mrgreen:

[roogu]

I wonder if they'll make him skate at sectionals or be giving him some sort of 'bye'

[StarshineXavier]

Originally posted by roogu
I wonder if they'll make him skate at sectionals or be giving him some sort of 'bye'

Wouldn't that be the only way he could qualify for Nationals? He needs to do like anyone else in order to get there, since he didn't compete this past year. It wouldn't seem right (to me) if he got a bye since he didn't earn it.

[Lise]

I have a feeling that he will get a bye-Skate Canada is giving him assignments and considering his contributions to the sport, I don't see them obligating sectionals.

[bleu]

Me thinks we are in for a quint toe

[StarshineXavier]

I didn't think 5 revolutions was possible. Methinks he has something else in his bag of tricks.

[jcspkbfan]

Well, looks like Elvis has his sights set on more than just this season:

http://canada.com/sports/story.html?id=3764E687-4439-44DA-955A-8FFF76AC64B1

If Elvis does make it to the 2006 Olympics, would he be the oldest figure skater ever to compete there (at least in the singles division?)

And considering Elvis is only landing 3-axels again for the first time in five or six months, somehow I can't see him attempting a quintuple jump anytime soon! :lol: Frankly, considering all the injuries going on with skaters constantly landing quads, I hope we don't see any skater doing "quints" anytime soon!

[roogu]

Reports show elvis was doing up to triple loops today .... guess he's building back slowly

[luckiest1]

Reports from where? Inquiring minds want to know ;)

This is very positive, considering the loop is Elvis' least favourite jump, IIRC.

[becca]

Skaters who compete internationally for Canada and skate at the senior level (at Canadians) all recieve buys through sectionals. I would assume that Elvis will get grand prix(s) or at the very least a "B" international, which means that he will not have to compete sectionals. This is not special treatment, the same rules apply to everyone.

note: this is assuming that the rules haven't changed since last year.

[jazzpants]

Originally posted by mikey
Oh great... Just what skating needs these days: more kung-fu...

Guess he's back to eligible skating fast as lightening. Probably it's a little bit frightening! Too bad he didn't come back with expert timing. :P

Sorry, couldn't resist... :P

Welcome back... AGAIN, Elvis!!! :P

[roogu]

Originally posted by luckiest1
Reports from where? Inquiring minds want to know ;)

This is very positive, considering the loop is Elvis' least favourite jump, IIRC.

Reports from skaters who skate at RTC.

[Dreamer]

They said in the Toronto Star that he was doing triple loops and couldn't quite get back the timing on the triple axel.

I'm a huge Elvis fan and was sad to see him leave, but I thought then that it was a good thing. When I heard he was coming back, I thought, "great! One more season to show what he can do!!" But now that I hear about the staying in until 2006, I don't know... I wish him all the best.

[jcspkbfan]

Yet another Elvis article confirming the music choices for both his new programs and another new choreographer he's working with:

http://waymoresports.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=waymoresports/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1051643352751&call_page=WM_Home&call_pageid=979619472127&call_pagepath=Home/Home

The SP description sounds an awful lot like Elvis' Kodo drums program, but I really hope it's a new number!

BTW, has Tracy Wilson ever done any choreography before--I know Rob McCall did quite a bit of choreography work before his death, but this is the first I've heard Tracy involved in that side of the sport.

[Alexeiskate]

I wonder if it would have been wiser for Elvis to get most of his jumps back, or at least the 3axel, before publicly declaring that he wants to come out of retirement. It looks like the press now will be watching his every move and that has to be hard for him to concentrate.

[Sydney]

I think Tracy Wilson helped out Bourne and Kraatz on one of their programs - I can't remember which one, but it was pre-Tarasova.

I didn't see any mention of Tracy Wilson doing Elvis' choreography in the article.... If she is, I think that would be an interesting choice, and force Elvis to focus more on steps, footwork, choreography.

[Emanfan]

There is a poster or two over at Yahoo who are discussing the fact that Skate Canada (read "sponsors") want Elvis back because they wanted a more "masculine" image of Canadian men's figure skating.

Am I really stupid and naive here to think that is an appalling notion? Who the hell cares who is not masculine (read "gay") and who is? God, I find this all is becoming way too tedious, too commercial. Whatever happened to just good figure skating?

I find I'm starting to lose interest here after almost 30 years of being a solid fan!

[roogu]

I doubt it has anything to do with 'masculine' images .... if it was, I think Elvis' style would have been rewarded time and time again when he was an amateur, the first time around. And let's face it, he wasn't rewarded.


If anything, it's probably a tactic to get the required placements/points for 3 entries into future worlds and/or Olympics.

As of right now, there hasn't really been anyone that's been solidly ready to take over the torch in Canadian Men's skating .... yes, Eman and Jeff are amazing skaters, but Jeff just got on the world scene and will probably need another year or two before he becomes a major or at least a top 5 or 6 contender. As for Eman, he's had some relative success but well, we all know Eman.

In Ladies, Joannie looks ready to take over and she's proven time and time again that she can hold up under the pressure. There's Dubreiul and Lauzon in Dance and now Langlois and Archetto in pairs. They're all solid skaters to be the next headliners and in their disciplines.

P.S. just as an answer to the Wilson questions .... it was B/K's 95 OD that Wilson helped choreograph but I'm not sure to how much of an extent ... it was the quickstep/foxtrot rhythm that season.

[KittyKins]

Since when has Elvis done what is the norm and what other people think he should do?? This is meant as a compliment - he likes a challenge and who can blame him when the pro world is so boring these days. I am of the feeling that if the pro competitions existed like they did in the past, perhaps Elvis would have made a different decision.

Elvis has had a tremendous amount of things to deal with in the past couple of years. There were two personal/family difficulties that were mentioned in the media. And there were the injuries he was plagued with. When I saw Elvis skate in the Olympics I was saddened because it was like he gave up, there seemed to be no drive there. Possibly there were still small injuries? Elvis was never one to make up an excuse for a mediocre performance even if it was an injury.

I for one am not going to count Elvis out by any stretch. If he has regained that joy of skating then GREAT and I for one am looking forward to watching him. No, I don't want him to experience heartbreak, but I find it incredible that some think he should only go back to skating if he has the possibility of winning. What is this written somewhere? Can't he just go back for the love of skating? I think Elvis has the right attitude. He wants to do what he enjoys doing.

And I don't think this makes the goodbye tribute to him silly at all. He deserved all those accolades! I'm sure Elvis won't expect everyone to do it all over again. This is a new chapter and can be celebrated on its own merit.

Elvis will always be my hero. I admire him for this new adventure he is now starting and I'll be behind him all the way. Go Elvis! :)

[BarbraM]

Originally posted by mikey
Oh great... Just what skating needs these days: more kung-fu...

LOL! That's exactly what I thought as well. I never cared for his skating, because it seemed like every program had some sort of kung fu/karate move in it with his arms, lets, etc. O.K., so you're into martial arts--great--but lets leave it at the martial arts center, not the ice rink.

[KittyKins]

That's Karate. If you think Elvis is only about "Kung Fu" then you don't know Elvis. He is much more versatile than people give him credit for. I'd like to see something different too, but I liked the Karate numbers. I swear that some of you have been taking lessons in being snide. Why should people criticize Elvis for what he wants to do? It's his business anyway, and what is it to anyone else?

[lBrokenAnkle]

I am glad Elvis did not leave his martial arts off the ice, I really love his style. I know lots of people don't, and that's fine, but I would hate to have been deprived of something that has brought me so much joy and inspiration.

Laura

[skatemom2002]

Tracey Robertson will be choreographing the short. Elvis clarified that in the press conference from Wednesday.

The URL for the article and link to the live conference is provided:

http://www.pulse24.com/Sports/Top_S...30-002/page.asp

BTW, Tracey is a choreographer based out of Richmond Training Centre, who has choreographed for many top Canadian athletes, including Netty Kim, 1995 Canadian Champion.

[roogu]

So is it Tracy Wilson or Robertson that will be doing the short?


Interesting indeed!

[skatemom2002]

If you have doubts, check out the press conference :roll:

[Peter G]

Welcome back, Elvis! :D

[luckiest1]

roogu, it's Tracey Robertson.

[Excidra]

double post.

[Excidra]

Originally posted by skatemom2002
If you have doubts, check out the press conference :roll:



What's with the rolling eyes, the person just asked a simple question.

[luckiest1]

For those interested, I transcribed the press conference.

Link to a transcription of the press conference (http://www.network54.com/Forum/message?forumid=14321&messageid=1051938266)

[bleu]

If people are going to cricitize Elvis for doing the kung-fu stuff then they should do the same to other skaters.

Bleu - not an Elvis fan but aint happy with all this criticism. The guy just want to come back and skate...kung fu or not...

[duane]

Thanks luckiest1!

[hippiechick]

Well if this is what makes him happy then I say go for it! I think people should do whatever it is that they enjoy. However I hope that he is not disappointed in his results, should they not be what he expected.

[Excidra]

Originally posted by luckiest1
For those interested, I transcribed the press conference.

Link to a transcription of the press conference (http://www.network54.com/Forum/message?forumid=14321&messageid=1051938266)

Thank you so much. I'm ready for Elvis.

[Lark]

I do not have much to say about Elvis but "WHY"?
I could see if he were willing to grow as an artist, but he demands to stick to the same tired kung fu act. It is stale, IMO.

[luckiest1]

Originally posted by Lark
I do not have much to say about Elvis but "WHY"?
I could see if he were willing to grow as an artist, but he demands to stick to the same tired kung fu act. It is stale, IMO.

From the transcription:

Q: Why?

A: Ummmmm, cause I feel like I want to be back. It's kinda like, for 4 years from 98 to 02,
getting up out of the bed and trying to get to the rink was a chore. And I wanted to make
sure that I would have that drive back and that fire back before I ended my career totally.
And I didn't know if it ever would come back, or when, and it just happened to be this
year, just after Worlds, around Worlds, I thought 'oh maybe it's because I went to Worlds
and commentated, maybe it's because I'm around it'. But I left it for a few weeks, and it
was still there. I'd get up, I'd work out, I'd go to the rink, and I'd be constantly
thinking about it. And then I realized, wait a minute, I wanna do this. This is
something I wanted to feel for like 4 or 5 years, the pre-98 season, and that's what I
feel, I'm ready to go do that now, regardless of age or whatever.

Lark, how about we give him a chance to show us what he's got, before we start slagging him? :roll: Just a thought....

[KittyKins]

Lark, I don't think any of us know what kind of music or programs Elvis will be doing for this coming season. So, to say he is still doing "the same kung fu act" is sort of jumping to conclusions. I do not think Elvis is one-dimension as you are insinuating. He may have some surprises in store and I for one am looking forward to it. Elvis does both Karate and kung fu. I'm just so happy to see him skate! I can hardly wait! I do not think it is appropriate or necessary for Elvis to "reinvent himself". He knows what's best for himself anyway.

I corrected my Kung Fu comment. Sorry!

[mk_fan]

Elvis will be skating to Tribal Music for the Short Program, and for his long program he will be skating to The Count of Monte Cristo.

I for one CAN NOT WAIT! I wish him nothing but the best in terms of success. I hope he surprises everyone and kicks butt on the Grand Prix circuit. Even if he takes home a couple of bronze medals, that would be a huge success for him. I think he is capable despite of what everyone thinks. I think he is entitled to whatever he feels, I can not wait. I have a feeling he is going to surprise everyone!

GO ELVIS

Marilee

[KittyKins]

Originally posted by mk_fan
Elvis will be skating to Tribal Music for the Short Program, and for his long program he will be skating to The Count of Monte Cristo.

Thank you for that bit of info. What is the Count of Monte Cristo like? Is it a soundtrack? Elvis likes those and I like those theme programs too. Elvis as a vampire? It sounds interesting! :)

[Yagadelic]

The Count of Monte Cristo is not a vampire movie. You should rent the newest version with Guy Pierce and Jim Caviezel, it was good.

[liljimeo]

I thought the main reason he left was because of what it was doing to his body. I just hope the 13 months off gave his body a break. Doesn't he have a groin injury like every other month? Well, I mean... Him skating or not doesn't really affect me in the slightest. He should be able to retire and come out of retirement just as much as Michael Jordan! Figure skaters deserve the same retirement flexibility as basketball players!

[luckiest1]

Originally posted by liljimeo
I thought the main reason he left was because of what it was doing to his body. I just hope the 13 months off gave his body a break. Doesn't he have a groin injury like every other month?

Elvis severely injured his groin in 1998, and that injury took years to properly heal. Since then, he has been plagued with smaller injuries, like shin splints, a broken collar bone, and a knee injury as a result of a fall off the ice. However, he's 100% now, and hoping to stay that way! :D

http://www.stojko.ca.tc

[KittyKins]

Luckiest1 you are right on. The problem was that Elvis was not able to fully rest from his MINOR injures while he was training for competitive skating. He did have that chance and now is ready to go again. The same exact thing happened to Kurt Browning. He came back in his early 30's, and was better than ever, after he had a chance to fully recover from the injuries he had at the end of his amateur career. I think Elvis can do the same. He is hardly ready for the rocking chair yet.

BTW, I corrected my above comment about kung fu. I've been told that Elvis does both kung fu AND karate. Sorry about that. I still don't think that's all he does and is not one-dimensional as some are indicating. He has a lot of depth and I'm looking forward to this coming season! :)

[jp1andOnly]

just to add something about groin injuries. Once you pull your groin you are more likely to do it again. It's like when you sprain an ankle. The muscles have weakened and though you can bring them back to normal you are more likely to do it again. And again..and again. Thats why if you don't let a groin injury heal, you keep pulling it. Chances are Elvis will always have groin problems. He will have to be careful not to overtrain and to warm up properly. If he pulls it again, this time it might lead to surgery.

Wishing Elvis the best comeback :)

[jcspkbfan]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by KittyKins
Luckiest1 you are right on. The problem was that Elvis was not able to fully rest from his MINOR injures while he was training for competitive skating. He did have that chance and now is ready to go again. The same exact thing happened to Kurt Browning. He came back in his early 30's, and was better than ever, after he had a chance to fully recover from the injuries he had at the end of his amateur career. I think Elvis can do the same. He is hardly ready for the rocking chair yet.

Kurt's first "real" comeback after his 1992 back injury, in my mind, took place the following season when he won 1993 Canadians and Worlds (Kurt himself said it took place even earlier than that, when he won silver at 1992 Worlds). But Kurt wasn't the jumper he used to be, even though every other aspect of his skating improved tremendously since 1992.

Kurt was around Elvis' current age during the comeback KittyKins refers to. True, he was doing 3-axels, triple-triple combinations and even a few quads (which he stopped doing as an eligible skater after his back injury) and again, every other aspect of his skating improved tremendously since turning pro, but I'm afraid Kurt would have needed a 3-flip and 3-lutz (two jumps he hasn't attempted in competition since turning pro) if he wanted to do what Elvis is trying to do now and successfully compete against the top eligible skaters at the time. Competing in pro competitions and competing at Worlds are two very different things, especially since ISU judges (and the new scoring system) seem to place even more emphasis on jumps nowadays than they did back then. So, to me, comparing Elvis' situation today to Kurt's situation in the mid-90's is like comparing apples to oranges.

[KittyKins]

I was talking about how Kurt had small injuries at the end of his amateur career. I was not talking about an official comeback of any sort. He turned pro and had a chance to fully recover from these and then did extremely well in his pro career in his early 30's. I remember thinking he was better than ever. Elvis is in a similar situation in that he had 13 months to completely recover from injuries that he had at the end of his first amateur career. As long as he was in the middle of intense amateur competition, this was impossible. So, I don't think fruit has anything to do with this equation. To me there are some similarities there. I'm not saying their styles are the same or anything like that. No one doubts that they are different. Kurt was able to do 3-Axels when he was a pro and landed a quad 10 years after the anniversary of his first quad. All I was saying is Kurt was good in his early 30's after he had some time off, just like Elvis. What I want to emphasize is that a skater can be good in their 30's and Elvis has a chance to do well.

[Lark]

I personally do not feel that Elvis is ***WILLING*** to grow artistically as a skater. My opinion.
He seems to skate the same program to different music, much like Todd and Yags. But where Todd and Yags, IMO, have shown a lot of growth in their artistry from when they started, Elvis has shown little, if any.
If you want to add something to skating, fine. Welcome back.
If you want to recycle the same programs year after year and refuse to leave your comfort level, you can be a commentator or coach.

[KittyKins]

Who decides what is artistic and not artistic? You are saying that Elvis refuses to grow artistically? Well, that is from your opinion of what artistic is. You seem to think that because Elvis is not changing his style or re-inventing himself that that automatically means he is not willing to grow artistically. I disagree. Elvis has his own artistic style that does not appeal to everyone, but neither do some other styles appeal to everyone either. Also, we really do not know what Elvis is planning to do in this new chapter of his career. He may branch out in different ways, no one really knows at this point other than his choreographer & coach. I too would like to see Elvis try some different things, because I do not think he is one-dimension like some people are saying. Many of his programs have not all been the same. I am thinking about his Killing Fields and Highway to Heaven programs. Those were quite different from the Bruce Lee Story. However, I don't think Elvis needs to change his style in order to grow artistically and if he decides to stick to the Martial Arts theme, I still think he can grow artistically. It is probably best that he does have a new choreographer, not because he needs to re-invent himself, but because of some people's perception.

[Wingnut]

KittyKins: "It is probably best that he does have a new choreographer, not because he needs to re-invent himself, but because of some people's perception."

Elvis doesn't care about other people's perceptions.

---

It's great to hear Elvis is coming back. I've been his biggest fan since 1994 and I felt that Elvis was still hungry for that great performance when he retired in 2002. It felt to me like he wasn't done because he hadn't had his final skate yet. Somehow I knew he'd come back. I truly believed that he would win GOLD in 2002 with a fabulous skate. I knew how well he was skating in practice (4-3s easily). The key in getting gold was being in the top 3 after thee short. I knew he couldn't top Yagudin's short, or Plushenko's (though I prefer his other both of theirs). When I saw Plushenko fall (in the short), I jumped for joy. "There's gonna be room!" When Elvis was up, and Plushenko still in 4th, I said "All Elvis needs to do is not fall." When he stepped out of the quad and got the triple-toe, I KNEW he was going to be 4th. I was so excitied until I remembered that Alexander Abt had skated better than Plushenko and was in 5th. Then it hit me. Then the marks came up. Then I was pissed. ROBBED! I could have lived with Elvis being in 5th or 6th, but not BELOW PLUSHENKO!

Elvis couldn't skate his best in the long because he was shaken up. He wanted to be "in the hunt" and suddenly he wasn't. He still skated great, but 8th was where he belonged (in the LP).

I simply can't wait to see Elvis again. I believe that he can do it. Competition is tighter than ever right now, but I still think he can. If he is hungry again, great.

As to all you nay-sayers, what will you say if Elvis medals? Or even gets top 5? I'm not saying he's going to, but what if he did? Would be you against him then? When will you learn that it isn't about position, but about his best skate? You're with him when he's a world champion, but against him when he isn't. Look past the medals. Elvis can do whatever he wants to do. It isn't our place to insult him or have negative thoughts about his position. Elvis likes competing. He should be able to do that if that's what he likes. If you don't like watching him or don't like his style, too bad for you. Watch something else.

Its too bad that I likely won't get any coverage of any of Elvis' grand prix events, or even Worlds. There's still Nationals which should be quite the battle.

Wingnut

[shantz]

Elvis is amazing artisticly! He brings gis own style to the plate, he doesn't just follow the rest. 10 years ago no one would have dared to do music like Gladiator, Dragon, Bruce Lee, and now every where you turn you see Males skaters skating to that kind of music. Even Alexei Yagudin has said that Elvis is an innovator when it come to artistry. Elvis's is a very graceful skater, he just doesn't feel the need to wear butterfly wings and do ballet to show it. The great things about Elvis's artistry is that is it one of a kind, his musical choices, hand/leg movements etc. are all unique to him.

[lBrokenAnkle]

It does not bother me that some don't find Elvis artistic, it has been said many times that artistry is in the eye of the beholder. In my eyes Elvis is very artistic, and I have not changed my opinion since I saw him for the first time at the 1994 Olympic SP. But two things strike me; first a few people who keep insisting he is not, do not leave any room for others holding a different opinion, as though we must all accept their definition and disregard our own. That is a little disturbing. The other disturbing thing is the lack of acknowledgement of how devasting his 1998 injury was. He is only admitting now how hard it was to overcome, first physically and then emotionally. So people who say he should have A. recovered from pain, B. bounced back from the experience of going through the 1998 Olympics and C. Change his artistry to suit someone elses definition., well, again, they are entitled to their opinions, but I disagree. The man is human. He sticks with it, he does not give up even when things are not going his way.

To me, Elvis did just fine in his post '98 career. Merlin, All Alone, and Cirque de Soleil were very good programs, if not always skated to their potential, and I thought Mummy was outstanding (remember this is MHO) and very unusual for for Elvis and for skating. The only really bad year he had was 2001 where he was injured the entire year. And he still hung in there, he had a good Skate Canada in 2001, and a finally landed the 4-3 at Canadians in 2002 and he landed not one but 2 quads in the Olympics, even in a lackluster performance. He did have a rather grim feel to his attitude for the last 4 years and if now he is feeling the joy again, I can only be thrilled for him and wish him the best.

laura

[singerskates]

Yup, joy does make the difference. If one is not joyful, one can not do the best to their ability. Elvis is having fun again. ONe thing I do hope is that even though Elvis is having fun again, I hope he doesn't over do it. Skating more than 3 hours in a row without sleep in between is not a very good idea. If he keeps the long hours up, Elvis could get another overuse injury. Here's hoping he takes it slower than the spring and summer of 1997. It was then when Elvis was a bit too hungry for that Gold medal when he took out his groin with over practice. I remember reading in one article back then that Dough Leigh had to chase Elvis off of the ice because he didn't want to get off on a regular basis. Hopefully his maturity might make him think twice about over doing it this time especially as a 30 something, it's easier to over do it.

Go Elvis!!!!!!!

B

[Wingnut]

Elvis is amazing. I find that his programs are the only ones I can watch again and again. They have re-watch value. Something about his powerful artistry. I thought that few females enjoyed his style as much as males would (I'm a male). Gladiator was and is one of my favorites. Yeah so he never skated it to its potential, but it had potential. A great program. Merlin was pretty good (GREAT at 1999 nationals! He almost had 2 quads!) I never saw All Alone, but Cirque du Soleil was a classic. It had so much footwork but unlike Kodo, it was also very musical. I didn't like his 2001 Worlds remix of Cirque, it seemed too watered down. The Mummy was pretty good. Is it true that Elvis had the best presentation marks in the competition with that program? I remember hearing that somewhere. Although Elvis didn't (result-wise) skate as well as he did during the 90s, if you go back and watch an older program and compare it to his more recent ones, there is SO much improvement. I wouldn't mind seeing him go back and use his Gladiator program again, but unfortunately I doubt it'll happen.

[KittyKins]

Originally posted by Wingnut
Elvis doesn't care about other people's perceptions.



Good point. I was thinking more of the judges and their perceptions. He might do better with the judges because he is having a completely fresh start.

I agree that Elvis is such a hard worker that he might overtrain. I think he understands the limits of his own body though. The man has been through hell physically and emotionally over the past 4 years, and I'm really glad he's getting another chance to do what he enjoys doing. I always was disappointed he didn't land that quad lutz, sort of like he had unfinished business. It was like he finished in the middle of something. I guess that's how Elvis felt too which is why he is back! :)

[pairs_guy]

ITA with kittykins, I cant wait to see him skate at the next competition! im so pumped to see his new stuff! He sounds like hes ready to go so it should be exciting to watch!