A number of skaters competing in the Winter Olympics have connections to Connecticut.

Figure skating gold medalist Dorothy Hamill grew up in Greenwich, and Alexia Paganini, who is representing Switzerland at the games, is also from the town.

Coaches say the attention is encouraging new people to try the sport. They say it is bringing fresh energy to their students, too.

Skaters taking lessons at the Greenwich Skating Club say watching the Olympics motivates them to do their best.

"With the Olympics, it makes me want to get to that level," says Lauren Harteveldt. "During normal years I don't see skating as much and don't comprehend what you can achieve. The Olympics make me want to try more and achieve my goals."