And, of course, we cannot forget how Kolesnik came to the US to start with—brought here to be a partner to Avonley, living in her home with her and her parents, until there was some sort of rupture between them right after they won Junior Worlds. As far as I recall, anyway.
I know this is an ancient post, but the fact that this response has sat out there for awhile needs clarification.
Vadym was not brought to the US to partner Avonley Nguyen.
Vadym brought himself to Detroit, with the help of his parents, after writing to Igor requesting an audition to Shpilband’s camp at Novi. Vadym was 14 when accepted by Igor. Avonley was a newer student at Novi herself. Both Avonley and Vadym tried out with other potential partners before pairing up. Kolesnik initially moved to Michigan with his mother (Svitlana) shortly before his fifteenth birthday - they got an apartment, bought a car and Vadym was enrolled in public school. Unfortunately, visa troubles meant both were deported. Vadym was able to get his visa sorted out and return to the U.S., his mom was not. Since he was too young to be on his own, that’s how Vadym ended up staying with Avonley’s family.
Also of note regarding recruiting Emilea Zingas, Igor - while persistent - went through Emi’s coaches. After initially approaching both at Nebelhorn, Igor contacted her coaches (primarily Brooke Castille O’Keefe, ironically now at MIDA) while following up back in Detroit. It was at her coaches’ urging that Emi took the tryout. Believe me, Emi is no pushover. No one coerced her into becoming an ice dancer. She became an ice dancer because she loved it. On the contrary, I give Igor props for spotting her talent.
There is a good interview on the Off Ice Podcast where Emi goes into details about the formation of her partnership with Vadym. Vadym has spoken a few times about coming to America, most recently in an article from A Divine Sport.
And BTW, Vadym and Avonley are on good terms.
