Madeline Schizas Earns Olympic Success, Secures University Extension in Canada
Canadian figure skater Madeline Schizas has made headlines not just for her performance, but also for her unique request for an academic extension. The 22-year-old, who is also a student at McMaster University, competed in the women’s team event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics. Following her participation, Schizas humorously appealed for an extension on a sociology assignment due to her Olympic commitments.
Madeline Schizas’s Olympic Journey
After competing in the Olympic Games, Schizas posted a screenshot of her request on Instagram. She requested a short extension because she mistakenly thought her assignment was due on Sunday instead of Friday. The post quickly went viral, showcasing the balance between being a student and an elite athlete.
Academic and Athletic Accomplishments
- Student Status: Schizas is majoring in Environment and Society at McMaster University.
- Olympic Participation: Competed in the women’s team event at Milano Cortina 2026.
- Performance: Scored 64.97 in the short program during the team event.
- Current Ranking: Canada finished fifth in the team event following her performance.
- Graduation Date: Schizas is set to graduate in May 2024.
The request for an extension highlights the challenges many student-athletes face in managing their academic responsibilities alongside demanding training schedules and competitions.
Public Reaction
Schizas’s humorous and relatable approach caught the attention of fans and followers. She expressed her surprise at the level of interest in her situation, using the opportunity to reflect on the unique challenges ballerinas encounter at this elite level of sport. Her post concluded with a light-hearted acknowledgment of the support she received.
As Schizas continues her journey in figure skating, she remains a relatable figure, exemplifying the dual life of a student-athlete. As the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold, all eyes will be on her to see how she juggles these significant responsibilities.
