Tracking Italy's skating talent

Her young skaters, meanwhile, are works in progress. "This season, their tactical awareness grew. Our relays could have produced more medals, but details cost us," Qi said. "Seeing their improvement brings me great comfort."

"In Canada, everything is hyper-professional. In Europe, teams across borders, like Austria, France and Hungary, train together. They share plans, learn from each other," noted Qi, who envisions herself as a cultural bridge. "I've absorbed different systems. My value isn't just coaching a team, it's connecting philosophies."

Balancing career and family remains her toughest challenge. Her husband shuttles between Canada and Italy, while her parents, once skeptical of her skating dreams, now help care for her children in Europe.

"In spring and summer, my family stays in Italy. When the season starts, they return to Calgary. It's not ideal, but we make it work," said Qi, who often hits the slopes of Bormio, a five-minute drive from the rink, to recharge herself between training sessions.