At the Winter Olympics, coach Benoit Richaud is making headlines by guiding 16 skaters from 13 countries. His colorful approach includes wearing outfits representing each skater’s nation, showcasing diversity and culture in figure skating.
Benoit Richaud: A Unique Coaching Philosophy
Richaud, a former competitive skater from Lyon, France, turned to coaching after an unremarkable career in competitive skating, where he peaked at seventh place in the World Junior Championships. Since beginning his coaching journey in 2013, he initially struggled to find clients. His first week included just one brief session.
His early coaching experiences involved teaching older beginners, including a 70-year-old grandmother. Despite starting from scratch, Richaud steadily built his reputation by working with aspiring athletes and eventually coaching notable skaters like Deniss Vasiļjevs from Latvia.
Transforming the Sport
Today, Richaud is considered one of the most sought-after choreographers in figure skating. He attributes his success to a fearless mindset. “I do whatever I want, and I never try to please judges or people,” he explains. This commitment to innovation allows him to create exciting routines that hope to attract wider audiences beyond just figure skating fans.
Richaud often reflects on his father’s indifference towards the sport. He aims to make his routines captivating enough to engage non-fans. “I want to make people fall in love with skating,” he says, taking inspiration from his personal experiences.
Skaters with Aspirations
This year, Richaud is coaching five skaters with aspirations for Olympic medals. Among them is Maxim Naumov, a 24-year-old from Connecticut. Naumov faced personal tragedy when he lost both parents in a plane crash last year. Initially considering leaving the sport, his journey to the men’s singles final has been a tribute to his parents’ dreams.
Richaud admires Naumov’s perseverance, remarking, “He wanted to leave the sport, and now he’s making his dream come true.” The emotional support Richaud provides is vital, as he is often seen in the ‘kiss and cry’ area right after performances, offering encouragement and reassurance.
The Global Stage
With 16 skaters representing 13 countries, Richaud is at the forefront of a culturally rich and diverse Olympic competition. His commitment to promoting the beauty of each nation’s culture and pride in the sport sets a remarkable tone for the event.
As the Olympics progress, Richaud’s approach, dedication to his athletes, and innovative coaching philosophy will undoubtedly inspire both current and future generations of skaters.
