Giulia Ivasco is a professional figure skater from Venezuela who currently competes for the South American nation, Argentina. She has represented her country at the Youth Olympic Games three times, all the while earning bronze in the event of free style ice skating. Her accomplishments on the ice have been well noted throughout the hockey world, which makes her a name that skaters from other nations aspire to copy. Despite being only a sophomore, Giulia is already making waves on the U.S. ice skating circuit, where other young competitors hope to emulate her success as quickly as possible.
What exactly does it take to be chosen as an alternate for a figure skater at the Youth Olympic Games? At the most basic level, one must be at least fifteen years old and in possession of a valid passport. This legal document will serve as proof of age in addition to ensuring that your parent or legal guardian is legally permitted to travel with you to the championships. Giulia Ivasco is a Venezuelan-born girl who is listed as being under five feet eight inches in height, a full four inches shorter than the average woman in this category. Although her height may be the determining factor in her selection as an alternate, age will likely play the largest role in determining which team she represents when the games begin in February.
The opportunity for young people to represent their countries at the Games represents a great opportunity for teaching children the importance of teamwork and working together as a group. As Giulia shows throughout her skating career, team work and dedication to the sport are qualities that are very common among successful professionals. If her achievements are any indication of what the future holds for her partner, Ruben Barrueco, they will make teaching young people valuable skills that will serve them well throughout their careers and lives. In recent years, the Youth Olympic Games has included a short program that highlights the positive qualities of each team player has to offer the team and how these players help to build the spirit and drive that are required for each match.