The leaves have fallen, finals are rapidly approaching and, although global warming makes the weather a surprise to all, there is a certain feeling in the air.

As students finish their last few assignments, the holidays are not the only enjoyment occupying minds for this winter season. The 2010 Winter Olympics, taking place Feb. 12-28, will be held in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“The Olympics is one of my favorite times of year,” said Shaune Sullivan, a sophomore finance major. “Winter can be so depressing because it’s so cold and there is not much to do. It’s always interesting to watch people compete and it’s a great distraction from doing work,” she added.

“Speed skating is definitely the priority of events to watch,” said Eileen McLaughlin, a junior hearing and speech major. “It’s absolutely incredible watching the intensity that overcomes these athletes while competing. They’re falling, blades are slicing their face and they’re skating at top speeds around the rink. I idolize them,” she gleamed.

To jump-start the hype, NBC has been firing off promotional clips of some of USA’s most notable competitors, such as gold medalists Shaun White and Apolo Ohno.

“I’m in love with Shaun White. He might not be the most beautiful man, but he is at the top of his game when it comes to snowboarding. I wish the Olympics were on more often so I could watch him bring home more medals for USA,” said Sullivan.

During the Turin Winter Games in 2006, White had a rocky start. After an early fall in the half-pipe competition, he needed to display an outstanding performance. He succeeded and qualified for the final in seventh place. White was awarded 46.8 points out of a possible 50 during his first run of the final. He knew before his second run that he was already an Olympic champion.

“I remember watching Shaun White during the 2006 Winter Olympics. His first run for the qualifiers was a little unnerving when he fell, but I knew he had the drive to pull through,” said Lauren Swissman, junior education major. “The finals were unbelievable. He is an amazing athlete to watch and a fierce competitor.”

The Winter Olympics always promises to display athletic excellence and inspiring performances. It also gives students an excuse to take a break from the books and watch a little competition.

“The great thing about the Olympics is watching the personal achievements. The athletic abilities of these competitors are inspiring. It just makes you want to start training so you can compete in front of the world,” said McLaughlin.

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