What started out as a fun activity during the school holidays developed into a dream come true for young Piers Zhou, representing Australia in his favourite sport, Figure Skating.
The Year 7 Marist College Eastwood student started figure skating at the tender age of 6 when his mum and her friends organised a day out for the kids. Piers says “I had a great time, it was fun so I asked mum if we could do it more often”.
It wasn’t long before Piers caught the eye of a coach and then he was most definitely on his way.
Now, Piers will be representing Australia in the Oceania International Figure Skating Championships to be held in Melbourne later in May. Pier’s takes it all in his stride; “I’ve been in a lot of competitions, but this is my first international one”, he says. Piers placed 2nd in his division in his most recent competition, the Central Coast Club Competition.
So what keeps a young boy so passionate? “I really enjoy figure skating, it’s fun and I watch a lot of figure skating online which inspires me to keep improving,” says Piers.
Keeping up with schoolwork is not a problem, “I’m pretty well organised and I try to do the most important things first.” He continues, “I’ve just started at Marist College Eastwood this year. I was a bit worried about moving to high school, but I like it here because everyone is so kind and happy to be here. My favourite subject is Food Technology because I love to cook.”
“Although Piers has only recently joined Marist College Eastwood, he has already distinguished himself through multiple awards—not only for his academic excellence but also for his meaningful contributions to the school community. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and wish him every success in his upcoming competition,” said Principal Silvana Rossetti.
When not figure skating or attending to schoolwork, Piers plays the piano, which he started also at the age of 6, and is involved in the school band playing saxophone.
Piers sees himself travelling overseas and working with international coaches, continuing to constantly improve his technique and one day representing Australia at the Olympic Games.
Good luck Piers!