7/22/96 2:38:30 PM Opening ╥Scott.LOG╙ for recording.
Subj: New Folder!
Date: 96-07-16 00:45:49 edt
From: SoulzMate
Posted on: America Online
Hi all,
As promised, this is the new folder here at GS Winter, where each week we will be able to discuss one particular skater - particularly what makes them so special and what we would like to see from them in the future.
If at all possible, I'm going to try to find a way to send a log of each folder to the skater in question, so that they can see just what a friendly place CyberSpace can be. :)
This week's skater is the Man himself....Scott Hamilton.
Have fun!
Kimber
P.S. I know we said we'd start on Monday, but Bertha kept me offline for most of yesterday. So we'll have the folder run Tuesday - Tuesday.
Subj: Re: Scott Hamilton
Date: 96-07-16 01:46:22 edt
From: SGskate
Posted on: America Online
What makes Scottt so special. Well, I would say he almost has it all in the world of figure skating. To say that he is a marvelous skater, goes without saying. I have never seen him do a program that I didn't like. My favorite? Though Scott is a man of multiple personalities in his skating, from Cuban Pete to you name it, my favorite is Georgia.
Although it also goes without saying, Scott is a wonderful and sensitive person. Though he loves to win, I think that even more, he likes to entertain and please his audience. He's a true friend, as shown during the time following the tragic loss of Sergei Grinkov, one of his own from Stars On Ice.
Scott has the love and admiration of millions and handles it as if it is nothing. He also knows how to handle those judges!!!
I can't wait to see Scott's new programs for this coming year.
Keep on skating Scott. We love you.
Sherri
Subj: New folder
Date: 96-07-16 04:49:14 edt
From: BoitanoFan
Posted on: America Online
Kimber,
When will we know who the new skater of the week will be?
Just curious.
gail
Subj: Scott Hamilton - Cheers!
Date: 96-07-16 07:24:36 edt
From: DianaSK
Posted on: America Online
I just want to say that I enjoy every one of Scott's programs - he is always a joy to watch. But my special favorite is the program he skated right after Sergei's death - Sinatra's "One for the Road" (?). The performance was so poignant - full of emotion - I have to say it made me sit in front of the TV and cry. Every move Scott made on the ice seemed to have a special meaning. It was a beautiful and fitting send-off for his friend.
Diana
Subj: Re:New Folder!
Date: 96-07-16 07:51:41 edt
From: Anjule
Posted on: America Online
Thank you, Kimber, for such a tasteful choice! :)
Ann
Subj: Re:New Folder!
Date: 96-07-16 09:51:46 edt
From: MHardy3023
Posted on: America Online
Scott is a wonderful person....he has a true heart of a champion. He display such gentleness and caring for katia following the tragic death of Sergei. Scott, as a skater, is someone to look up to. He isn't afraid to try new things...he isn't afraid to use comedy on ice which is a great effort! It aint easy creating comedy on two thin blades, but Scott makes it possible. I look forward to seeing him in the many years to come! He's a great guy...and to quote Kurt Browning, "Skate God for Life!"
Marci
Subj: Re:New Folder!
Date: 96-07-16 14:39:49 edt
From: Sk84Gold
Posted on: America Online
I agree with all the wonderful things everyone has said about Scott so far. We could never say enough good things about such a special person.
I have, like many of you, grown up adoring Scott. One of my old skating coaches knew him from Bowling Green and, although I never met him, I heard of what a sincere person he is through her. This made me appreciate Scott holistically--not just for his incredible skating ability. Now, we have all come to know Scott this way--on the ice and off. He, along with Verne, are my favorite commentators--they really make events come to life for those of us at home. Also, Scott has superb technical ability, as well as style, and his story gives hope to many individuals out there that are faced with overcoming adversity (i.e. his illness as a child that began his career). I think, most of all, we see Scott as a friend because he genuinely cares about us--THE FANS! Scott has rich character and such integrity. He is GENUINE and this shines through in everything he does and says. I especially praise Scott for all the support and strength he has shown to Katya since Sergei's death. I appreciate the way he has taken her under his wing--I think he has been a huge factor in her healing. I also appreciate the way Scott is a true friend to all skaters he knows. He is the first to welcome anyone with open arms. He cares so much about each person's unique qualities and he always manages to make them shine in his presence. He would never cause conflict or degrade any person. It is so refreshing to see people who have achieved what he has continue to bring out the best in everyone around him, never drawing praise for himself. I think these are things Scott should be commended for. He is a true inspiration (along with Katya and Sergei, of course) for me. I hope that their influences show in my life forever. As I look back on the history of this sport, I am reminded that it is a blessing that figure skating has been filled with so many great athletes--but beyond that--truly GREAT people. After all, in my opinion, that is life's greatest accomplishment--to be a good person and to make a difference just because of *who* you are as an individual. Scott headlines this group of heroes. And that--the integrity--is what makes me so proud to be a part of this sport.
Tracie
Subj: Re:New Folder!
Date: 96-07-16 14:47:26 edt
From: VICTORFAN
Posted on: America Online
WHAT A JOY!!!!! A folder for our dear Scottie!!!!! I don't need to say more about this ENERGIZER BUNNY, do I? He just keeps on going and going . . . Just a delight to watch and the one who makes my day!!!!!! Anjule, I AGREE! What taste for the first skater to be the SKATER OF THE WEEK!! And SH BAD, let me see hear talking about that smile of Scottie's!!!
Soojee ( with a big smile on her face as well!! )
Subj: Re:New Folder!
Date: 96-07-16 15:39:18 edt
From: SoulzMate
Posted on: America Online
Hi all,
All these wonderful memories of Scott Hamilton got me to thinking. I have to say that bar none, my favorite memory of Scott Hamilton is the look he had on his sweet face when he won the 1984 Olympic Gold Medal....that slow tear that trickled down his cheek. I think that was possibly the last time I saw so clearly the Olympic Gold mean to skater exactly what it's supposed to mean in the finest sense: A great accomplishment, having met a personal, lifelong goal *and* to have won a gold medal for one's country at the Olympic Games. I felt I could see all of those emotions and I've not seen the like sense.
My other favorite memory of Scott was when he won the Gold Championship the first time it was held. We all make light on how the Pro Competitions don't "mean anything," but one could tell that this particular event meant a great deal to Scott Hamilton. He's a great person and a wonderful skater with a fantastic sense of comedy on the ice, but I have a sneaking suspicion that he's also a fierce competitor. I don't think anyone could go four year without a defeat unless they had this particular quality. :)
Kimber
P.S. To Gail....as stated in General Folder, if you or anyone has a suggestion as to whom you would like to see profiled as the "Skater of the Week," just drop me an email.
Subj: Re:New Folder!
Date: 96-07-16 16:58:01 edt
From: IllyanaAM
Posted on: America Online
What to say about Scott? I think you've all said most of it already -- his unique skating quality, his wonderful personality both on and off the ice, his caring and concern for his friends, his compassion for people, his enthusiasm for his fans -- all of these and many more that you have all mentioned make him one of everyone's favorite skaters, and, as someone else mentioned, 'Skate God for Life!"
I also think that one of Scott's best qualities is the way he is able to reach out as an 'ambassador of skating' to people who aren't necessarily that involved or interested in the sport, and turn them into big fans with one grin and a flash of his footwork. An example: My grandmother had always been a casual fan of skating, and my grandfather had really never been into skating all that much before last Christmas. Since I had enjoyed Stars on Ice so much the previous year, I decided to get them both tickets to Stars on Ice for their Christmas present, hoping that they'd at least like it a little bit. The very next day, I got a phone call from both of them, and all they talked about was how great Scott was, how much they enjoyed him and the whole show, and how Scott had been sitting just a few rows down from him in the 'audience participation' part of the show (I guess that's what you call it when he goes out into the stands and chats with someone during his 'part' of the show). After both of them were done teling me how much they liked it, the next thing they asked was if I would get them tickets for next Christmas too. There you have it -- two more skating fans, courtesy of 'Skate God for Life", Scott Hamilton!
-- Amy
Subj: Favorite Program
Date: 96-07-16 18:34:59 edt
From: Jacquesrap
Posted on: America Online
I have a favorite program that Scott Hamilton used to skate but doesn't anymore. He used to skate to Walking After Midnight by Garth Brooks. He wore fringe! Wow! Hubba hubba!
He also many years ago in Stars On Ice skated in an ensemble number about a Man of Many Colors and he was the Man of Many Colors and everyone else like Rosalynn Sumners and LeaAnn Miller and Bill Fauver were all dressed in white and Brian Pockar was dressed in black and Toller Cranston was very black and wore a huge cape. Scott made everyone turn into colors with their costumes such as Brian Pockar having his leather pants split open with huge slits of yellow and Toller's cape became a rainbow. It was a metaphor.
Mr. Jock-u-lar-i-ty
Subj: Re:Favorite Program
Date: 96-07-16 20:08:59 edt
From: Sk84Gold
Posted on: America Online
Ditto Kimber--two of my favorite moments as well!! It was so much fun to see Scott get so excited at that Gold Championship! He deserves all the success he has had and MORE! He really touched my heart in '84. I still have it on tape and watch it every so often. It still gets me all choked up! It was one of those "rainbow emotions" (as somebody called it on the boards a LONG time ago)!!!!
Subj: Scott H.
Date: 96-07-16 23:06:56 edt
From: SSchott
Posted on: America Online
I admire Scott so much for the things he has accomplished with and through his skating. And most of all, I love the fact that he doesn't take everything so seriously. His comic programs are a nice relief to the dramatic and "pretty" programs that are more common. I think one of my favorites things is when he spins and pretends to be dizzy coming out of it. I also love his "planned" trips and falls on the ice. He seems like such a kind, wonderful person. I have to admit I wasn't that big of a fan of his (or men's skating in general) when he won his gold medal, but the story was touching anyway. However, for me, Scott as an entertainer has blossomed so wonderfully that he is now one of my two favorite male skaters (I could never choose between him and Viktor). Oh yes, I think he has footwork to die for!
Subj: Re:Scott H.
Date: 96-07-17 00:05:38 edt
From: Fanatique
Posted on: America Online
Scott. . . what can I say? He introduced me to the sport that would become my passion for the remainder of my life. My love for skating was born when he skated his Olympic program. Though I didn't see him again for many at least five years after that, I never forgot his joy and his ability. The man has wonderful talent. I wanted to say that Scott was wondeful in himself without the tragedy of Sergei coming up in my thoughts, but I realize that as dear to my heart as he was before that day, he has become even more so since then. See, though I knew of the hardships of his childhood and his struggles, they had been a part of his past. The Scott I knew was a happy joyous, smiling, sprite who would never grow old. When Sergei's death came, I think I mourned more for the sadness I saw in those around him than actually for him. I knew Sergei was in a better place. I felt for Katya and for the one's hurting. When I saw the pain and anguish in Scott, I realized that a part of him had died too. He mentioned in an interview that he was a kind of daddy for the tour. With tears in his eyes, he said "it isn't fair to have one of your children pass away before you." Scott became very real to me that day. I had always respected his skating and admired his attitude toward life, but that day he became more than just a skater to me. More than just a hero. That was the day I realized that Scott was human and that he hurt like all the rest of us.
Scott gave me something else that day. He gave me hope to go on. Skating has always been my escape. That day there was no where to escape from the pain. Everyone in the skating world was in pain. It was then that I realized that we, the people who love skating are important too. We are the support for them. When they went back out to skate those shows, it wasn't because they had too. It was a part of their healing process too. They performed, not for us, but for Sergei and for themselves. Scott reminded me to look for the path to go on when tragedy strikes.
Thank you is not enough for all the things Scott did for me. There are no alcolades high enough.
Sherrie
Subj: Re:Scott H.
Date: 96-07-17 09:36:01 edt
From: WMVP
Posted on: America Online
I'm so impressed with everyone comments about Scott. I have to agree with everyone's feelings and comments.
One of my favorite memories of Scott has nothing to do with his skating. Does anyone out there remember who carried the American flag in the opening ceremonies of the 1980 Olympics? None other than Scott Hamilton!! I'll never forget... here's little Scott Hamilton absolutely beaming as he carries this huge American flag! He was so proud, and I was proud, too, and felt so patriotic. He was and is such a great ambassador for figure skating and for America.
Tracey
Subj: Re:Scott H.
Date: 96-07-17 15:59:46 edt
From: Brugmanb
Posted on: America Online
Oh, that dear guy. He is such a sweetheart! I always love watching him skate. He cheers up my day! Not only is Scott a fabulous skater and entertainer, but also a hero to many, and an all-around great person. The story of his life and how he began skating has touched us all (well, maybe not ALL, but a great deal of people), and has given hope to those who have big dreams of accomplishing something special. He has helped other skaters who have been wounded by the loss of Sergei. He cares about others, not only himself. Sheesh! How could someone be so loving, caring, and kind? He does it all!
Scott has won the hearts of millions! How can anyone not like him? His sweet personality shows in his skating. And his wonderful skating!!!!! He gets the audience so involved! Scott also has such a great technical and artistic ability. If I ever try the things he does (backflips, footwork, all of that good stuff) I'd end up in intensive care(is that what it's called?) - seriously!!!
Well I'll probably be back tomorrow to talk more about my very favorite skater. See you then! :)
Brugmanb
P.S. Kimber, can a skater only be Skater of the Week only once, or can they become SOTW as many times as you want? And by the way, thank you SO much for choosing Scottie to be the 1st Skater of the Week! *You* did choose him, right?
Subj: Scott the Sweetheart
Date: 96-07-17 19:18:29 edt
From: DCampb8547
Posted on: America Online
Kimber--Bravo!!! What a wonderful choice for the first Skater of the Week!!!
What else can I say about our Scott that hasn't already been said? Apart from Kurt Browning(my all time favorite!!), watching Scott has helped me through some very hard times in my life. When I had my kidney transplant, there was a skating show on TV the very next day, guess who out of all the skaters present put a smile on my face during a very stressful time? Scott!!! It was the perfect pick me up!!! He is one of the most caring and lovable skater on the face of the earth, and concering his footwork, I think that Soojee said it best "Energizer Bunny on Blades!!!" I have been so lucky to have seen Scott live twice the past two years when the SOI tour came up here to Canada, and I really hope that he comes back next April!!!!
Denise
Subj: RE:SCOTT'S FEET
Date: 96-07-17 23:02:02 edt
From: WhyMe93
Posted on: America Online
I really like Scott's footwork, always have. There are no comparisons when he moves those feet across the ice with the spped, finesse and agility that he does and his personality is terriffic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Subj: Re:Scott H.
Date: 96-07-18 00:45:04 edt
From: Unger7
Posted on: America Online
I have to agree with Tracey. One of my favorite memories of Scott was him carring the American flag in the 1980 Olympics. He is truly a great ambassador for the sport of skating as well as for our country.
Subj: Scott on TV
Date: 96-07-18 17:18:25 edt
From: VICTORFAN
Posted on: America Online
Hi everyone!! Does anybody know when Scott's next TV appearance will be?? Like one of my close friends said, we are basically going into Scott withdrawl! And I missed that A&E because I was out of town!!! Even a rerun would be great! I miss seeing the " evergreen and ageless " Scott on TV!!!
Soojee.
Subj: Re:Scott
Date: 96-07-18 23:23:41 edt
From: Nan433
Posted on: America Online
The sport of figure skating is so much the better because Scott Hamilton is a part of it. He has such class.
Subj: Re:Scott on TV
Date: 96-07-19 09:36:51 edt
From: Annechar
Posted on: America Online
I enjoy watching Scott skate because his technique is excellent and his artistry has a clear vision. When I watch him skate, I feel as if he is the one in charge of choosing his skating style, music, etc.
I love his enthusiam for skating and the other skaters. I enjoy his commentary because his love of skating is obvious and his enthusiam is contagious.
My respect for Scott grew on a few occasions. One was his on-air comment, while sitting next to Brian Boitano in 1993, that he had reinstated. His comment was something along the lines of friends should stick together. With all of the negative remarks being made about Boitano desire to compete in "eligible" competitions, it was nice to see another "top" skaters openly supporting his friend. ANother time was his remarks in 1995 about how skating extremely well in the 94 Gold Championship helped him was consolation for not having the best skate at the 84 Olympics. It is a sign of a secure person who could admit that he won an Olympic competition without having skated well enough to please himself. I was amazed at how Scott remained composed on-air while commenting on the Men's Final at the 94 Olympics in lieu of the fact that his father had died. Lastly his nurturing relationship with Katya....I'm sure that his kindness was a great comfort to her since Sergei's death....Wouldn't all of us want someone like Scott to be our friend! He has shown himself to be a class act.
Liz
Subj: Scott is Marvelous!
Date: 96-07-19 20:43:40 edt
From: ILuvPWylie
Posted on: America Online
I have been watching Scott Hamilton for years! I can't remember not watching him skate. He has such a wonderful style that very few people have. He is excellent at every style he tries, and I think it is because he truly loves skating and it shows. I have so much respect for him and what he has done for the sport of figure skating. He is a role model for all people to look up to and is an inspiration for many. I enjoy so many of his programs that I can't begin to choose favorites.
My favorite moment of Scotty is at Sergei's tribute when he watched Katia skate and held his arms out to her. You could see the admiration in his eyes for her and for all his friends there. What a caring human being he is. He gives 300% every time he skates no matter how he performs. What an entertainer, hero, and athelete!
Thank you Scott for your undying love for your sport and delighting your fans!!!
Julie
Subj: Scottie Musings
Date: 96-07-20 03:08:47 edt
From: SoulzMate
Posted on: America Online
Hi all,
I have three questions about Scott Hamilton.
1. He's been training that triple axel jump...does he have it?
2. Does anyone know if he will stay with CBS ... especially through the Nagano Games?
3. One thing I've noticed about Scott ... he has a knack for explaining to the audience just what goes wrong when a jump fails. Does anyone know if he ever plans on doing any coaching?
One thing's for sure....whether he skates, commentates or coaches, Scott Hamilton has a fabulous future ahead of him, I'm sure.
Thanks in advance....
Kimber
Subj: Re:Scottie Musings
Date: 96-07-20 12:03:54 edt
From: DELSANNIO
Posted on: America Online
Hmm...the only thing I know for sure is that Scott will be commentating in Nagano. As for his triple Axel, I've only ever heard he's working on it, and as for coaching, I agree, he'd be great...but I just don't think he has the *time* right now!
Subj: Scott Hamilton
Date: 96-07-20 18:40:54 edt
From: TealnBlack
Posted on: America Online
Is there anyone who dislikes Scottie Hamilton? I mean, what this guy does for people is amazing. When he does begin to coach, can't you see the types of skaters he will shape. It will be a sight to see.
Scott
Subj: Re:Scottie Musings
Date: 96-07-20 18:44:41 edt
From: Sesti
Posted on: America Online
Okay... rumors had it that Scott was training the axel all season. I remember seeing his coach, Kathy Casey, with him in St. Louis at SOI... aside from the axel, I doubt Scott needs much coaching these days. <g>
As for coaching, I'm sure he'd be excellent, but he has his fingers in so many pies that even when he does stop skating (perish the thought!), he might not have any time!
Jaime
Subj: Re:Scottie Musings
Date: 96-07-20 19:08:44 edt
From: MHardy3023
Posted on: America Online
Scott has said that he won't put the triple axel into his repertoire until he has like 80% consistency with it. So, I guess he said he has about 50-60% consistency right now...he's getting here and he's what?? 37 or 38 years old? Makes me feel ashamed that I can't even take one foot off the ice! <g>
Marci
Subj: Scottie's Triple Axel
Date: 96-07-21 16:15:11 edt
From: Brugmanb
Posted on: America Online
I think in his short program at the "Starlight Challenge" (black and white outfit), Scott was supposed to do a triple axel in it. He skipped it though, probably because he didn't feel too comfortable with it yet. But that was a long time ago. I'm sure he'll start using it soon.
Subj: re: Scott Hamilton
Date: 96-07-21 20:37:10 edt
From: OKsfan
Posted on: America Online
How does one describe the talents of a champion such as
Scott witho
7/22/96 2:41:37 PM Opening ╥Scott.LOG#2╙ for recording.
ut repeating words that have been used to praise
this Champion among champions so many times before.
I feel the sport of figure skating has grown so much & seen
so many improvements because of Scott. He has brought us so
many humorous routines over the years & they never fail
to bring a smile to my face, he is truly the quintessential
clown of the ice :^)but, he can also perform the serious
roles equally well. His versatility is what makes him a
great skater.
Scott`s real talents go far beyond that, he somehow seems to
never draw negative criticism and he always performs in a
purely professional manner. His efforts to assist both fellow
skaters & aspiring young skaters will never go unnoticed.
He is truly the "Ambassador of the sport" and The ultimate role
model for young skaters. The words (Scott Hamilton Olympic Champion)
seem to fit together perfectly.
Kevin!!!!
Subj: Re:Scottie Musings
Date: 96-07-21 21:15:09 edt
From: Pearlking
Posted on: America Online
Scott was born August 28, 1958 making him 38 next month. (I only remember that because I was born the same day.) Imagine Triple Axels on 38 year old knees!
