Cody Kock: mastering time management on the path to Olympic dreams

When one asks Cody Kock what changes he experienced this past season, he won’t list off a single jump or skating technique. Instead, the 17-year-old figure skater attributes his growth to mastering a skill often overlooked in sports: time management. Learning to balance the demands of his final year of high school with his aspirations on the ice has proved to be a monumental challenge, but it’s one that he’s met with determination.

“The biggest lesson I have learned was time management,” Cody said.

 “I have also been able to manage stress and self-doubt.” The impact of this management is visible in the results he has achieved. At the Cape Inter-Provincials 2025, Cody qualified to skate Senior Men at Nationals 2026, an exciting milestone achieved amidst his rigorous academic load.

Now, with his sights set firmly on the international competition calendar, Cody expresses clear ambition: “My main goal for this season is to qualify for Junior Worlds and compete at the Junior World Championship in Estonia in 2026. I will compete in Copenhagen in January 2026 to achieve that score.” His focus is laser-sharp, and he acknowledges the mental fortitude required to compete at higher levels. “I am learning how to cope with stress at competitions,” he admits.

In 2024, with the ambition to elevate his training, Cody made a pivotal decision to leave South Africa for the United States, training under head coach Douglas Haw while still collaborating with his home coach, Vage Evetts, during visits to Cape Town. This arrangement has not only enhanced his skills but has taught him a vital lesson in independence. “Training with Mr Haw has been a positive experience. I am learning how to refine my triple jumps and integrate triple-triple combinations,” he said proudly.

Coach Douglas Haw, a USA Master Coach with nearly five decades of experience, recalls his first encounter with Cody during a workshop at The Ice Station, where he could easily spot the young skater's passion. “Cody first caught my eye through his eagerness to learn and attentiveness. There was pure joy on Cody’s face when he was on the ice,” Haw recalled. “He listens, processes, and uses feedback exceptionally well.” Haw emphasises that Cody brings positive energies to the rink and continues to improve every time he competes.

The foundation of Cody's success is apparent through the support of his family and coaches. “At the tender age of six, he joined the Black Panthers Figure Skating Club,” his parents, Burchell and Heidi, said. Over the years, he has not only competed for Western Province but has also achieved numerous victories across various levels of competition. “Cody shows continuous improvement in every competition he attends,” they said, taking pride in his accomplishments.

Yet, amid the competitive grind, it remains clear that Cody’s love for skating is the core motivation. “I love being on the ice, the support from teammates and competitors. What drives me is to surpass my past performances.” He  insightfully balances the pressures of competition and personal growth. His heartwarming message to young skaters is both authentic and motivational: “Skate because you love the sport and do it with passion.”

However, despite his achievements and aspirations, Cody's journey is not without its challenges. The financial strain of ice fees, competition expenses, and travel costs weighs heavily on him and his family. As he continues to strive for greatness, any assistance on this front could significantly help lessen the burdens they face.