Kwan and Coughlin

In 2001, the year on which the Sullivan Award is based, Michelle Kwan won her 5th national title and her 4th world title. Sarah Hughes didn't win a single competition. So I fail to see why Dan Hodes considers Hughes to be the best amateur figure skater, and what Hughes has to do with the Sullivan Award when she wasn't even nominated ("Sampson: NBDL All-Star?" April 17). While Hughes may have won Olympic gold, she has yet to win a national title, world title, and score a perfect 6.0. Kwan has six national titles, four world titles, and has scored more perfect 6.0's than any skater in history.

Hodes also thinks that Coughlin has "damned good looks," something Kwan "never will." Interesting comment, considering Kwan was among People Magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People. Coughlin may be a Cal Bear, but disparaging Kwan for winning the Sullivan over Coughlin really is pathetic.

Christine Lee
UC Berkeley student
Source: Daily Cal Friday 4/9/2002