8 Quotes by Ron Hershberger

Joe had a distinguished record of service and commitment to U.S. Figure Skating. He was a major contributor to the growth of figure skating in the Chicago area. Beyond those activities he was truly a gentleman, and he always placed the best interest of the skaters as his first priority.

Johnny is outspoken. And he is free to speak his mind. Primarily, we ask our athletes to be premier athletes.

U.S. Figure Skating is thrilled to bring this international event back to Colorado Springs. The city proved to be an excellent host in 2006, and we are excited to welcome the world's top figure skaters back to the United States for this event.

It is what it is. Why there wasn't more there, I can't answer.

The object, of course, is to try and get the three athletes there who have the best chance of winning medals, and I'm sure the international committee took that into consideration.

No, I'm not surprised that it's a huge deal. Michelle has been a marvelous champion. She's a terrific athlete. It's clear that skating fans everywhere adore her, and they should. She's been a terrific image for the sport of figure skating, so I'm not surprised that there's all this attention.

It's really regrettable that on the first day of practice she sustained a new injury and is forced to withdraw. She is a true champion.

In accordance with our established rules, any championship-level athlete who has qualified for the 2006 U.S. Championships has a right to petition for an Olympic spot due to injury or illness. We trust the outcome will be the naming of the best possible U.S. Olympic figure skating team.