Valentina Plazas and Maximiliano Fernandez are an elite American pairs figure skating team and among the few Hispanic pairs teams competing at this level in U.S. figure skating. Based in Canton Township, Michigan, they are training with the goal of representing Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan—an achievement well within their reach.

A visual exploration of their training process, both on and off the ice, would highlight the discipline, precision, and partnership required to excel in pairs skating. Their journey also includes moments of resilience, such as when Maximiliano sustained an injury that left Valentina to continue training independently. Documenting their preparation, recovery, and dynamic as a team offers a compelling narrative about dedication and perseverance in high-level sport.

In addition to the athletic aspect, their story embodies themes of diversity, equity, and inclusion, underscoring the importance of representation in figure skating and the broader sporting community. Coverage could also extend to a competition setting, capturing the culmination of their hard work and commitment.

I am following their training leading up to the U.S. Figure Skating National Championships (in early January), and hopefully we will find out if they are picked to represent Team USA at the Olympics in Milan.