Olympic Speed Skater Comes Home to Inspire Florida Kids

Mia Manganello just made Olympic history, and the first thing she did after retiring was head back to her elementary school to meet with kids who dream big.

The speed skater won bronze in the mass start event at this year's Winter Olympics, becoming the first American ever to medal in that race. It was the perfect ending to her athletic career.

Last week, she returned to Crestview, Florida, where her homecoming celebration started at Walker Elementary School. She walked the same halls as a child, and now she was back as an Olympic champion.

"It was the most magical thing I've ever done in my life," Manganello said about meeting the students. "Those kids are so energetic and just so full of life."

The city wasn't done celebrating. Crestview and Okaloosa County held a ceremony in her honor, complete with proclamations naming a day after her. Manganello signed autographs and took photos with everyone who showed up.

Her message to the crowd was simple: none of this would have happened without them. "Because of you guys and all of the love and support you've given me and my family allows me to stand up here today," she said.

Why This Inspires

Manganello's story shows what happens when an athlete remembers where they came from. She could have celebrated anywhere in the world, but she chose to bring her bronze medal home to the people who supported her journey.

Now that competition is behind her, she's trading her intense training schedule for something she values even more. She wants to spend her time making others feel special.

"I feel like within my years of being an athlete I've been selfish and just kind of introverted and having to focus," she said. "Right now I just want to share the love and just make others' days better."

Those elementary school kids just learned that champions don't just win medals; they come home and lift others up too.