Maxim Naumov Overcomes Tragedy, Debuts at Olympics One Year After Plane Crash

Maxim Naumov’s journey to the Olympic stage is marked by resilience and the will to overcome immense personal loss. On January 29, 2025, he tragically lost his parents, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, in a plane crash while they were returning from a skating competition. They played pivotal roles as both his parents and coaches.

Olympic Debut Just a Year After Tragedy

Fast forward to January 2026, Naumov is preparing for his first Olympic Games in Milan, Italy. This moment holds profound significance for him, especially as he reflects on conversations he had with his parents about his aspirations. “We did it,” the 24-year-old stated upon being named to the U.S. Olympic team, emphasizing that the achievement feels communal, shared with his late parents.

Support System During Difficult Times

Naumov credits his coaches, Elena and Vladimir Petrenko, as well as his godmother Gretta Bogdan and her husband Tony, for helping him navigate his grief. The Petrenkos, friends of his parents, took him under their wing, providing him with much-needed emotional support. Meanwhile, his skating family at the Skating Club of Boston has stood by him throughout the tough year.

• Vladimir Petrenko: A key figure in Naumov’s comeback, providing coaching and emotional stability.
• Gretta Bogdan: His godmother, ensuring Naumov felt cared for and supported.
• Skating Club of Boston: Naumov’s training base, where he felt a strong sense of community.

Legacy and Community Support

In 2015, Naumov’s parents moved to Boston to join the skating staff at the Skating Club, launching the Tomorrow’s Champions program aimed at nurturing young talent. Their commitment to this program highlights their dedication to the sport and the legacy they left behind. Naumov, now the on-ice director of Tomorrow’s Champions, has stepped up to continue this mission.

However, the weight of grief has been challenging. Losing his parents drove Naumov into a deep period of reflection. For weeks, he struggled to find the motivation to skate. Vladimir Petrenko recalls the difficulty of getting him back on the ice, but eventually, Naumov found himself teaching young skaters who had trained with his parents.

Training for Success

As Naumov set his sights on the Olympics, he worked closely with Vladimir Petrenko, who he felt could help him navigate the competitive landscape. They focused on enhancing his technique and building consistency in his performances. Naumov aimed to revolutionize his approach this season by integrating two quad jumps into his routines, aligning with techniques and strategies discussed with his father prior to the tragedy.

A Vision for the Future

“It’s about being strong and resilient,” Naumov reflected, embodying the lessons he learned from his parents. Naumov’s recent achievements, including a bronze medal at the U.S. Championships, solidify his place in the sport. The values his parents instilled in him continue to drive his ambition.

Looking ahead to the Olympics, Naumov emphasized his gratitude for the opportunity to compete. “I’ve learned to never take a day for granted ever again,” he stated, showcasing the determination that has become his hallmark. As he prepares to skate on Olympic ice, Naumov carries with him the enduring legacy of his parents, who remain central to his journey.