Matt Savoie, 3-time U.S. bronze medalist and 2006 Olympian, skated this masterful short program to Samuel Barber's "Adagio for Strings" in the 2004/2005 and 2005/2006 seasons.
After watching this program from the 2005 Nationals, I wondered, as I often have, why Matt was so underrated as a skater. After this beautiful short program, he was only ranked fourth best. One wonders what more a skater needs to do to be at the top!
What makes Matt so appealing is his sophisticated, fluid, original style. As Dick Button commented during the 2006 Olympics broadcast, Matt uses old skating moves in new ways. He was doing difficult, interesting transitions long before they were required by the new International Judging System. Matt, a skater of great composure and sophistication, is reserved and introverted, and while he may not always reach into the audience with his personality, his elegant style, artistic sensibility, and stellar skating skills speak for themselves. Matt's skating is refreshing and wonderful in every way. Skating doesn't get much better than this! I very much appreciate what Matt Savoie brings to the sport and art of skating.
As a mid-week boost, sit back, relax, and enjoy Matt's "Adagio for Strings."
ac
And for another spectacular Matt performance, check out a previous post I did on underrated U.S. Men, in which I highlight Matt skating to "Solo Amore" by Duetto.
This gentleman definitely reaches his audience, but it seems that he reaches out though skating for himself. Notice how often he puts his hand over his heart? His joy in skating spreads like an ink drop on a page.
ReplyDelete