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Chilean Student-Athlete Achieves Skating Success While Balancing University Studies
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A University of Bío-Bío student is proving that academic excellence and athletic achievement can coexist. Javiera Andrade Saldías, a second-year Nutrition student, recently secured first place in the Southern Super League – a prominent skating competition – in both Angol (October) and Coronel (November). She dominated the general category, showcasing her skills in both speed and distance skating.
Rising Star in Chilean Skating
Andrade saldías has been dedicated to skating as 2019, transitioning to a professional level in 2021. Currently,she represents the Héroes de Ñuble Club,a testament to her commitment and growing talent within the Chilean skating community.The Southern Super League itself is a collaborative effort, organized by various clubs in the Biobío region with support from local municipalities and the Chilean Skating Federation.
The Power of Sport and Education
The young athlete emphasizes the personal growth fostered by her sport. “Skating has always been for me a space where I can distract myself and grow as a person,” Andrade Saldías stated. “This sport has given me many friendships and many beautiful experiences.” She also expressed gratitude for the support she receives from the University of Bío-Bío and its Student Development Department, specifically through the UBB Sports Scholarship, which provides crucial monthly financial assistance.
Rigorous Training Regimen
Balancing a demanding academic schedule with intense athletic training requires discipline. Andrade Saldías explained her training routine, which involves two sessions per week with her club at the Nelson Oyarzún Stadium and one additional session at a field in Jardines del Sur, Chillán. Each session is meticulously structured. “In each session we work on different aspects: skate technique, posture, pushing, sliding, as well as speed and resistance exercises,” she detailed. “We also carry out physical preparation off the court to strengthen legs, core and balance.”
Overcoming Obstacles and Prioritizing Balance
The path to success isn’t without its challenges. Andrade Saldías acknowledged the difficulties of juggling studies and sports, admitting there have been times when academic priorities took precedence. However, she maintains a consistent commitment to her training. “In my day-to-day life I always try to leave space for my training,” she affirmed.
The Need for Infrastructure Development
despite her successes, andrade Saldías highlighted a significant obstacle to her training: the lack of a dedicated skatedrome in Chillán. “One of the biggest difficulties we have in chillán is that we do not have a skatedrome for our training,which forces us to constantly travel to other places to have a more complete preparation in accordance with our discipline,” she explained. This underscores the need for increased investment in sports infrastructure to support the development of athletes in the region.
Why: Javiera Andrade Saldías, a student-athlete, has achieved success in the Southern Super league, demonstrating the possibility of balancing academic pursuits with competitive sports. Who: Javiera Andrade Saldías, a second-year Nutrition student at the University of Bío-Bío, representing the Héroes de Ñuble Club. What: She won first place in the Southern Super League skating competition in Angol and Coronel, dominating the general category in speed and distance skating. How: Through dedicated training, a rigorous schedule, and support
