Rino Matsuike: “I’ve been told by coach that I lack ‘flair.’ I have been working hard and practicing, paying attention to my posture and every movement, trying to appear more graceful and striking.”
Rino Matsuike about turning 20 and her future aspirations.
original source: nordot.app dd, January 16th 2025
On January 12th, Rino Matsuike (20) attended the “Celebration for the 20th Birthday” held at her elementary school. Here’s a translation of her comments.
“It had been 8 years, so I was worried I might not be remembered, but everyone told me ‘We always watch you,’ which made me really happy. I have to keep working hard so that I can continue to be watched,” said Matsuike.
This season, which marks her 20th birthday, has truly been a breakthrough. In the Grand Prix series, she reached the podium in two competitions. She also advanced for the Grand Prix Final for the first time. “I think I was able to experience a lot of things and utilize them well in my performances, making it a very fulfilling season (first half) for me,” said Rino.
She turned 20 in October but still doesn’t feel much like an adult yet. “I drank champagne on my birthday, but it still didn’t taste very good (laughs). It’s completely different from what I imagined being 20 would be like when I was in elementary school. I still feel like my heart is that of a child, so I want to keep growing from here,” said Matsuike.
Although she is now an adult who wears furisode beautifully, there is one thing that has always been pointed out to her.
“I’ve been told by coach Machiko that I lack ‘flair.’ I have been working hard and practicing, paying attention to my posture and every movement, trying to appear more graceful and striking compared to the past,” said Matsuike.
Her coach also acknowledges her growth. “Though she is not flashy, she has an undeniable elegance. While not ostentatious, she has developed a certain charm in her quiet composure,” said coach Machiko Yamada.
With just one more year before the Olympics, she not only wants to maintain her refined skating but also gain strength and tackle the decisive year.
“When I think that the Olympics are just around the corner, it gets a bit overwhelming. But I believe if I can perform as usual, the results will follow. So, while I’m aware of it, I hope to not focus too much on just the results,” said Rino Matsuike.
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