Vadym Kolesnik Opens Up About Financial Struggles Ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics
Vadym Kolesnik, a 24-year-old ice dancer representing Team USA, is gearing up for the 2026 Winter Olympics, set to be held in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. However, his road to the Olympics is not free of obstacles. Recently, Kolesnik took a courageous step by launching a GoFundMe campaign to address the significant financial pressures he is facing in the lead-up to this monumental event.
The Journey to the Olympics
Kolesnik’s recent qualification alongside his partner Emilea Zingas has been a source of both excitement and stress. Their remarkable performance at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships earned them a spot on the Olympic team, which was officially announced on January 11, 2026. This achievement is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, but it has also amplified the financial burden associated with elite-level training.
Raising Awareness Through GoFundMe
The GoFundMe page Kolesnik launched has a goal of raising $25,000, intended to help alleviate the expenses associated with Olympic preparation. In his heartfelt message, Kolesnik candidly outlined the costly nature of training at an elite level. “As I prepare for the Olympics, I am facing significant financial challenges,” he shared, detailing how costs for coaching, rink time, choreography, travel, and competition fees can quickly accumulate.
The Financial Burden of Skating
Training for competitive ice dancing involves a considerable investment of both time and money. Athletes often find themselves traveling extensively—not only within the United States but also internationally—to access the best coaching and to compete. Kolesnik has highlighted that this intense period of training, especially in the months leading up to the Winter Olympics, places an additional financial strain on athletes already stretched to their limits.
A Personal Story
Kolesnik’s story is not just about competition; it’s deeply personal. Having been born in Ukraine, he expressed his longing to unite with his family, who still reside there, during such a pivotal moment in his life. “My greatest personal hope is to be able to bring my family from Ukraine to safely attend the Olympic Games,” he revealed. This sentiment adds layers to his Olympic aspirations, making them not only a quest for personal glory but also a hope to reconnect with loved ones.
The Impact of Community Support
In his appeal for assistance, Kolesnik emphasized that every contribution—no matter how small—would significantly impact his training journey. He expressed gratitude for the community support that allows him to focus on honing his skills while paying homage to both the nation that raised him and the one he now represents.
Securing Olympic Dreams
Kolesnik and Zingas earned their Olympic spot through a standout performance at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, where they took home a silver medal. This success marks a pivotal moment in their skating careers and illustrates the widespread talent present in the American figure skating scene. Alongside them, the U.S. Figure Skating team includes pairs like Madison Chock and Evan Bates, and Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko.
A Dream Realized
“For me, it’s a dream of my life to represent the U.S.,” Kolesnik stated, reflecting the dedication that has driven him since moving to the United States at the age of 15. His journey, filled with challenges and aspirations, serves as a testament to the resilience required to compete at such high levels. As the Olympics draw closer, Kolesnik’s commitment to his sport remains unwavering, with the hope of celebrating a dream that he has worked tirelessly to achieve.
Emotional Moments Captured
The announcement of their Olympic selection was an emotional experience for Kolesnik and Zingas. U.S. Figure Skating shared an Instagram video that captured the moment they learned they made the team. The video showcased tears of joy, hugs, and sheer disbelief, underscoring the hard work that went into reaching this pinnacle of athletic achievement.
Through his determination, Kolesnik not only aims for Olympic success but also addresses the broader challenges faced by athletes striving to fulfill their dreams while navigating the complexities of financial pressures and personal life.