Amber Glenn, the rising star in figure skating, attributes her remarkable success to coming out as bisexual and pansexual. The 23-year-old skater's stunning performance at this month's U.S. Figure Skating Championships, where she won a record-breaking score of 83.05 in the women's short program, marked a turning point in her career.
For Glenn, being open about her identity was a liberating experience that allowed her to feel true to herself on and off the ice. "It was something that did set me free," she said, reflecting on the impact of her coming-out announcement last year. Prior to this momentous event, Glenn had faced self-doubt and struggled with feelings of not fitting into the sport's traditional mold.
Glenn's journey to success has been marked by perseverance and a willingness to challenge conventional norms. After initially stepping away from figure skating due to mental health concerns, she returned to the sport with renewed focus and determination. Her breakthrough season was catalyzed by a switch in coaches and training locations, which allowed her to hone her skills under expert guidance.
The skater credits her coach Damon Allen with helping her develop the confidence and technical proficiency necessary to excel at the highest level. Additionally, Glenn has worked closely with a mental coach who has assisted her in managing the pressures of competition through breathing exercises and other mindfulness techniques.
Glenn's achievements have not only delighted fans but also made history as she became the first U.S. woman to win three consecutive national championships since 2003. Her success has paved the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ athletes, inspiring countless young people to be their authentic selves.
When asked about her path to the top, Glenn emphasized that being true to oneself is essential for success in any field. "I'm not going to fit into this mold," she said last fall. "I'm not going to be at the top anyways, so I might as well do it as myself." Her courageous decision to come out has undoubtedly contributed to her remarkable journey and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity.
For Glenn, being open about her identity was a liberating experience that allowed her to feel true to herself on and off the ice. "It was something that did set me free," she said, reflecting on the impact of her coming-out announcement last year. Prior to this momentous event, Glenn had faced self-doubt and struggled with feelings of not fitting into the sport's traditional mold.
Glenn's journey to success has been marked by perseverance and a willingness to challenge conventional norms. After initially stepping away from figure skating due to mental health concerns, she returned to the sport with renewed focus and determination. Her breakthrough season was catalyzed by a switch in coaches and training locations, which allowed her to hone her skills under expert guidance.
The skater credits her coach Damon Allen with helping her develop the confidence and technical proficiency necessary to excel at the highest level. Additionally, Glenn has worked closely with a mental coach who has assisted her in managing the pressures of competition through breathing exercises and other mindfulness techniques.
Glenn's achievements have not only delighted fans but also made history as she became the first U.S. woman to win three consecutive national championships since 2003. Her success has paved the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ athletes, inspiring countless young people to be their authentic selves.
When asked about her path to the top, Glenn emphasized that being true to oneself is essential for success in any field. "I'm not going to fit into this mold," she said last fall. "I'm not going to be at the top anyways, so I might as well do it as myself." Her courageous decision to come out has undoubtedly contributed to her remarkable journey and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity.