No skates on the bleachers is what the sign reads on your way into the ice rink unless you're two-time Olympian and U.S Champion figure skater Sasha Cohen. Cohen traveled to the Desert Schools Coyotes Center to spend some time with local ice skaters in a question-and-answer session as well as give them the opportunity to see her skate.

Cohen first drew national recognition in the 2000 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Ohio. She competed her first nationals at the senior level and beat Michelle Kwan to take the lead in the short program. She finished second overall and made a tremendous impact on the skating world. She is known for her exquisite lines and jaw-dropping flexibility.

Cohen is living out her dream one championship at a time and said she never grows tired of interacting with younger skaters.

“Being out there on the ice is like being a fish in a fish bowl,” Cohen said. “They stare at my every move no matter how simple it is.”

Cohen said the best part about being an amateur athlete is the travel opportunities.

“I get to meet different people and get to interact with my fans,” she said.

Although most would believe that Cohen likes to be on the go all the time, she admits that being at home with her mom and sister are the best of times.

“My mom and sister like to get up early and go shopping, but not me. I just like to wake up at around 10 a.m. and put on my bathrobe and drink my cappuccino while I relax at home,” Cohen said.

She also enjoys exercising, jogging, spending time on the beach and reading.

“Usually, the most time I get to myself is on the airplane,” she said. “That is when I can really get into a good book.”

Cohen realizes at each appearance she makes just how important her skating is to others who look up to her.

“When I see these little girls and the books and sign they make for me, it takes me out of my own little world,” Cohen said. “It makes me realize how inspirational I can be and how not too long ago, I too was in their position.”

The best part of competing to Cohen are the highs and lows that skating brings.

“Competition gives you a rush of adrenaline and putting yourself on the line feels great when you are out there,” Cohen said.

Cohen said believing in yourself is key.

“When something goes wrong, you have to ask yourself if it is going to help to get upset or can I learn from the mistake and get better at the jump,” Cohen said. “I am determined to be successful.”

Cohen is looking forward to coming back out to Arizona when she participates in the John Hancock Champions on Ice presented by Tom Collins at 7 p.m. Aug. 9 at Glendale Arena. Also participating in the event are Kwan, Johnny Weir, and Victor Petrenko. Tickets are $39 and can be purchased at the Glendale Arena box office, Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com and www.championsonice.com, or by calling (480) 784-4444.