Before the Olympic spotlight shines in Italy, two Team USA ice dancers received a hometown sendoff.
At Novi Ice Arena, Olympic dreams are taking shape for young athletes Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik, who are eager to make a name for themselves on the world’s biggest stage.
On most days, the rink echoes with the sound of blades cutting ice.
But on Monday (Jan. 26), the atmosphere is filled with excitement, laughter, and pride as fans gather to meet the duo.
“I used to be a host. That’s how I know,” one fan said while asking for an autograph.
After earning their spot on Team USA, Zingas and Kolesnik are heading to the Olympics to cap off a sensational season.
“I’m very grateful and appreciative of everyone who’s helped us on this journey. It’s really been a collaborative effort,” Zingas said.
For Zingas, a native of Grosse Pointe Farms, the Novi Ice Arena has been a place of growth—from learning the basics to building a winning partnership.
“When you spend so much time with someone, you have the same goal. You must have some kind of special relationship, you know? That’s how I think about us,” said Zingas.
Kolesnik’s path was different but led him to the same place: Novi. Together, they have built something that didn’t happen fast but happened right.
“I’m very excited for them. It couldn’t happen to better people. They work so hard and prove that it’s possible,” said a coach. “They’re probably going to be the youngest on the team, and it’s unbelievable. It’s been a really exciting time.”
Monday night, there were no podiums—just hugs, autographs, and fans eager to say, “We saw this coming.”
“You guys are great. I’m so excited for you. I knew you’d end up here,” the fan said.
In just a few days, Zingas and Kolesnik will be skating in Italy under brighter lights and higher stakes.
“You never know. Expect the unexpected. We’re there for fun. For me, I just want to make my parents proud and enjoy my time. But who knows, maybe we’ll get somewhere there,” Kolesnik said.
Before the world sees them, Metro Detroit gets one last moment to send them off from the place where it all quietly began.
“At the end of the day, we’re both really competitive people, and it’s a competition, so we’re ready to fight to skate our best,” Zingas said.
Fans and the community are cheering for them.
The Olympic journey begins on Feb. 6.
Local 4 will follow Zingas, Kolesnik, and other athletes with Metro Detroit connections, sharing insights into Italian culture and behind-the-scenes Olympic coverage.
Michigan is proud to have so many athletes represented in Italy, and Zingas and Kolesnik are among the hopefuls to watch.
--> Meet Emilia Zingas: Metro Detroit ice dancer qualifies for 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina