That’s a distinct possibility, but the Russian figure skating program has long been notorious (as has the Chinese gymnastics program) for intense training and pushing athletes too far. So it could be that too. That they are training at the expense of everything…their schooling, their health.

The coach concerned is notorious for burning out athletes fast. They aren’t training these girls for longevity and when they quit skating they just grab a new batch.

So, while you might be right, I think abusive training is more likely. American girls are still expected to go to school. I’m betting these Russian girls get “tutors” and don’t do anything but skate…and then what happens to them?

I will be amazed if we see Valieva on the ice again. She’s done. At 15.