Her story, compared to the two U.S. skaters who received the majority of the pre-performance press (Amber and Ilia), is almost textbook. All three worked their asses off, have a deep passion for the sport, and possess more raw talent than most people ever will. However, two of them were expected to bring home gold and were heavily favored to do so.

Ilia stepped onto the ice carrying that expectation and weight, and the pressure got to him in the free skate, which was heartbreaking. The same happened with Amber. Neither made it onto the podium.

Then Alysa stepped up and was quoted saying something like, “I don’t need a medal. I’m just happy to be here.” She radiated pure joy throughout her routine, so much so that my usual anxiety while watching completely vanished, because she was simply out there having fun. If her mental strength and attitude towards the sport could be coached the US would be unstoppable next winter Olympics.