1999 STATE FARM U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH FEBRUARY 7-14

USFSA RINK NOTES # 7 Feb. 13, 1999

Championship Men Press Conference Following the Free Skate Program

Michael Weiss:

"I think we have been competing with it (quad jumps). At Skate America, we skated pretty well against them (the Russians). Apparently, we are doing pretty well, because we have three people going to worlds. I think you have to continue to go for it. We've got a bunch of young guys here who really want to go after the quad. We are going in the right direction.

On being national champion:

"It's a great feeling. It is an incredible, presigious title to hold. I've been close to it the last couple of years---it feels great to be the champion on the United States. I've put in a lot of hard work and now I can go out and celebrate and have a pizza tonight."

On attending the World Championships as the national champion

"Many of the international judges have more confidence in you when they see that title attached to your name. The U.S. always sends a strong team to the World Championships, they always have a contender. I am just proud to be the number one guy for the U.S. at World's and I am hoing to go in there and represent the U.S. the best I can."