Ashley Cain – Olympics, backpacks and helping others.
In preparation for Operation Back2School, Skaters in Action from Euless volunteered in the 6 Stones warehouse. Among the young ladies was an Olympic hopeful.
It's our pleasure to introduce Ashley Cain, US National Ladies Silver Medalist and 6 Stones volunteer.
6 Stones: You have had a lot of success in skating. What is it that makes you successful?
Ashley: I have a great support system around me that encourages me to work hard everyday and strive to be my best. My family and all of my training mates have stuck with me through the highs and lows of my career, and I really owe much of my success and determination to them.
6 Stones: What is Skaters In Action?
Ashley: Skaters in Action is a group of skaters from Euless that have a desire to give back to the community. Many of us have been fortunate enough in our lives, and we want to give back to the people around us. It is a great bonding activity for us and it really keeps us all humble.
6 Stones: Why do you think it’s important for kids and teenagers to volunteer and give back to the community?
Ashley: Volunteering is a great way to experience how much the little things in life matter. As we go through our day to day schedule we fail to notice how many people around us are struggling just to put food on their families table. Volunteering helps me to take a step back and slow down with my life, and realize there are more important things in life than going shopping or watching my favorite TV show.
6 Stones: What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
Ashley: I love the feeling I get after volunteering. I feel very accomplished, happy, and blessed.
6 Stones: It is obvious that all of the younger skaters really look up to you. How does that influence how you act on and off the rink?
Ashley: The younger skaters at the rink keep me young! I know that sounds weird because I am only 17 but it is true. Many kids my age are out drinking or doing drugs, but having the younger kids at the rink has made me want to be a better person. Whenever I am with them they make me feel like a kid again, they are like my extended family. It is great to see them grow up and come to love the sport that has given me everything in life.
6 Stones: Knowing that you are a role model for so many young skaters, what is that you want them to know and learn from you?
Ashley: I want them to know that if you really want something life, you have to work for it. And even when you face a challenge you have to overcome and keep pushing on. They see me train everyday, and they see how hard it is. They see that it is not always fun, but when you skate that clean program or bring home a medal, there is no better feeling.
6 Stones: What are some of your goals, both skating and otherwise?
Ashley: A goal I have had in my skating career ever since I was young was to go to the Olympics. This is my ultimate goal, and it is what I work everyday towards. I would also love to go to school and study marine biology. My main goal though, is to always stay happy and determined in life.
Don't miss your chance to see Ashley!
Dr. Pepper StarCenter Euless is hosting Toy Story 3, a free ice show benefitting Operation Back2School on Saturday, August 18 at 5pm.