Olympic gold medalist figure skater Amber Glenn has openly shared her deep passion for the popular tabletop card game 'Magic: The Gathering.' Following her viral moments at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, where she was seen engaging with the game, Glenn has actively partnered with Wizards of the Coast, the game's developer. Her enthusiasm extends to an impressive collection of over 100,000 cards, and she harbors a clear vision for her own personalized 'Secret Lair' set, intending to infuse it with personal touches like her dog Ukkima and subtle nods to her skating achievements, all while championing the visibility of queer women within the gaming world. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote inclusivity, drawing inspiration from projects that celebrate women in the Magic community.

Glenn's journey into the world of 'Magic: The Gathering' began in 2022, rapidly evolving into a significant part of her life beyond competitive skating. She values the game as a vital 'third space' for relaxation and social interaction, distinct from the rigorous demands of her athletic career. Her collaboration with Wizards of the Coast, initiated after her Olympic appearance, has opened doors for her to conceptualize a 'Secret Lair' set that reflects her identity and values. This unique collection would blend elements of her personal life and competitive sport, such as a playful 'Ice Dancer' creature card and strategic considerations for card reprints, all carefully balanced to maintain the game's integrity and appeal to its diverse player base. Her focus on strong queer female representation also underscores a commitment to fostering a more inclusive gaming environment.

The Intersection of Competitive Sport and Card Gaming

Amber Glenn, a gold medalist in figure skating, captured public attention not only for her athletic prowess but also for her unreserved enthusiasm for "Magic: The Gathering." During the 2026 Winter Olympics, her candid displays of opening card packs and discussing her hobby endeared her to many, showcasing a different facet of the elite athlete's life. This public declaration of her passion for the game positioned her as a relatable figure, demonstrating that even those at the pinnacle of sports find joy and community in seemingly disparate interests. Her journey highlights how hobbies can provide essential balance and a personal sanctuary away from the pressures of professional life, creating a unique bridge between the competitive world of figure skating and the strategic universe of card gaming.

Glenn's engagement with "Magic: The Gathering" goes beyond casual play; it represents a significant personal outlet and a means of community building. She describes the game as her "third space"—a haven separate from her home and the demanding environment of the ice rink. This space allows her to connect with others who share her interests in a relaxed, social setting, whether through Magic, board games, or Dungeons & Dragons. This aspect of her life provides a crucial counterpoint to her intensive training regimen, offering mental respite and fostering friendships that are purely recreational. Her story underscores the growing trend of athletes embracing diverse interests, leveraging their platforms to normalize and celebrate engagement with hobbies like tabletop gaming, thus inspiring wider audiences to explore similar passions.

Crafting a Personal 'Secret Lair' and Advocating for Inclusivity

Following her Olympic success, Amber Glenn's visible passion for "Magic: The Gathering" led to a unique partnership with Wizards of the Coast, the game's developer. This collaboration has sparked discussions about her potential to create a personalized "Secret Lair" set, a limited-edition collection of themed cards. Glenn envisions a set that deeply reflects her personal life and values, including humorous nods to her dog, Ukkima, and subtle incorporations of her figure skating career without making it overtly sport-centric. Her ideas demonstrate a thoughtful approach to game design, aiming to balance personal narrative with broad appeal, showcasing her creativity and deep understanding of the game's mechanics and lore. This project offers a rare opportunity to fuse personal identity with a beloved game, creating something truly unique for fans.

Beyond personal expression, Glenn's vision for her "Secret Lair" set extends to advocating for important social themes. She explicitly desires to include representations of "strong queer women," drawing inspiration from existing "Secret Lair" drops that celebrate women within the Magic community, such as "Their Magic Is Limitless," which supports the Global Fund for Women. This commitment to inclusivity is a testament to her desire to use her platform for positive change, contributing to a more diverse and welcoming gaming environment. Her thoughtful consideration of card art, such as her appreciation for the delicate yet powerful depiction of the "Sol Ring" in a women-focused collection, highlights her belief in the power of art to convey meaningful messages. Through her potential "Secret Lair," Glenn aims to leave a lasting impact that transcends gameplay, promoting diversity and representation within the expansive world of "Magic: The Gathering."