Achieving a Childhood Dream

Sonia Avila

Creative Studio Sr Manager

One of my earliest childhood memories was being mesmerized by the “Battle of the Carmen’s” at the 1988 Winter Olympics. That dual featured USA’s Debbie Thomas versus East Germany’s Katarina Witt, both skating to the iconic score from the opera “Carmen.” I was instantly hooked; however, growing up in West Texas kept my ice dreams limited to books, TV broadcasts, and shows until landing a dream job at Southwest in 2004. In fall 2004, I enrolled in adult learn to skate classes and skated until an injury sidelined me. But as one door closed another door opened in 2015 when a coach asked if I’d be interested in becoming an official for U.S. Figure Skating. As a judge you go through endless rounds of trial judging and ongoing recurrent training to ensure you’re prepared to represent the organization, your local club, and do your very best for the skaters. The judging panel is responsible for objectively assessing the elements performed. I currently hold a Silver Test Appointment in Singles and Pairs which means I can judge up through the Novice level in the disciplines of Men’s, Ladies, and Pairs. There’s still more I want to achieve as an official, and I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my judging mentor who also happens to be Retired Southwest Captain Carol Wooley (a decorated National-level judge). It truly is a SWA World! What people might not know whether they’re watching a local competition, or the Olympics, is that the officials are volunteers. Thanks to our “Tickets for Time” program, I can give back to the sport that has given me endless memories, friends, and the best seat in the house.