The bright lights illuminate the ice at figure skating competitions, but scarcely illuminate the profound impact of mental preparation on athletes. Dr. Caroline Silby, head of sport psychology and mental performance for U.S. Figure Skating, has been deemed essential in enhancing athletes’ mental resilience. “I’m like a jack-in-the-box,” she shares. “If someone needs me, boop, there I am!” Silby’s presence is felt at towering events like the PyeongChang 2018 and Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games.
With a history rooted in competitive skating, Silby’s expertise extends well beyond ice. Athletes frequently seek her insights on mental grounding, often before their big competitions. “When I ask you, ‘How are you?’, I genuinely mean it,” Silby asserts, creating a safe space for dialogue.
U.S. Figure Skating has long prioritized mental health, marking a pioneering approach that began over five decades ago. A notable early influence was Bruce Ogilvie, often considered the “father of sport psychology.” Silby highlights the federation’s groundbreaking collaboration with coaches, nutritionists, and medical experts to reduce performance gaps—even a meager 3 percent can separate Olympic champions from those who might miss the cut.
Silby, deeply invested in building relationships with athletes from a young age, ensures they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. This process allows athletes to share their vulnerabilities and undergo joint initiatives aimed at nurturing self-respect internally.
This encouraging shift was notably seen between the 2018 and 2022 Winter Games, with skaters showing remarkable progress in self-acceptance. With two Olympic golds at Beijing, Silby has come to understand the multifaceted significance of these athletes’ journeys. “Gold medals are an important part,” she maintains, “but the fundamental growth they exhibit is equally, if not more, valuable.”
Going forward, Silby plans to enhance the U.S. Figure Skating’s mental according to athletes’ evolving needs. “Concerns around body image and a positive culture for skaters have become essential topics in our workshops,” she affirms, emphasizing ongoing education and support, making sure the athletes’ mental wellness remains the priority.
