Story perspectives

Skater Madeline Schizas Juggles Olympics and University Assignments

2/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Madeline Schizas, a 22-year-old figure skater and senior at McMaster University, requested an extension for a sociology assignment due to her participation in the 2026 Milano Cortina Games.
Competing for Team Canada, she mistakenly believed the assignment was due on Sunday instead of Friday.
Schizas shared her email to her professor on Instagram, explaining her situation and linking to confirm her Olympic participation.
She finished sixth in the women's short program team event, contributing to Team Canada's score.
Schizas will also compete in the individual event on February 17.

History

Historical Context

The 1980 Winter Olympics, held from February 13 to 24 in Lake Placid, New York, featured 1,072 athletes from 37 nations. The U.S. hockey team's stunning 4-3 victory over the Soviet Union, dubbed the "Miracle on Ice," symbolized Cold War tensions. Today, athletes like Madeline Schizas continue to balance sports and academics, influencing future sports policies and educational accommodations.

1 of 2

Story summary

Madeline Schizas, a 22-year-old figure skater and senior at McMaster University, requested an extension for a sociology assignment due to her participation in the 2026 Milano Cortina Games.
Competing for Team Canada, she mistakenly believed the assignment was due on Sunday instead of Friday.
Schizas shared her email to her professor on Instagram, explaining her situation and linking to confirm her Olympic participation.
She finished sixth in the women's short program team event, contributing to Team Canada's score.
Schizas will also compete in the individual event on February 17.

1 / 2