My tribute to Paul Wylie

If you look at Paul Wylie's trophy case, you would never know that he is one of the greatest skaters ever to step in an ice rink. There isn't a fan out there that hasn't been moved to tears by a Paul performance. Whether it was a man lost in grief portraying a man lost in space with his friends, or a man trying despertaly to understand the senselessness of the Holecaust, Paul Wylie touched our souls.

He stole our hearts in 92 when he came from 11th in the world to win a silver medal, overcoming so many doubts. Since then, he has taken us on so many incredible journies. He's changed the art of skating, taking it to a new and incredable place, and it will never be the same again.

Paul has a quality that every skater strives to find. It's not something you learn, it's something you feel from within. Every facial expression, every arm movement Paul did, had feeling. He expressed himself, his believes, and his honor in every single performance. He never did things half heartedly, nor did he ever hold back. These are the qualities I admire in Paul Wylie. Whatever the reason, his religous background, his supreme coaching, or his upbringing, he knew just how to express what he was feeling, all the while taking you out of yourself, and making you feel right along with him. Feelings you may not of known you had, or had surpressed somehow.

As Paul continues on his journey of life, I, along with all his fans, wish him the best of success and happiness. He has brought so much happiness and joy to us. The skating world will miss him, but he has certainly found his "Place in this World."

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Photos courtesy Diane's Figure Skating Page! - Check out the great photography!
Some of my favorite Paul quotes - check out the great scanned photos!

Email: nbezilla@libcom.com