Ilia and Katia open a skating program

[eyria]

I'm not exactly sure if their rink stands alone (wondering if one of the rinks in Lake Placid or Colorado Springs is figure skating only and possibly Lake Arrowhead) but it is unusual.

The Skating Club of Boston is also a figure skating-only rink. No hockey. It's a single-rink facility and quite nice, although it's an older building. It's a pretty high-profile training center right now; I believe Ross Miner, Christina Gao, Castelli & Shnapir, and Donlan & Speroff all train there.

[Olympia]

This would likely never happen - Ilia isn't mixing apples and oranges on his schedule. Competitive kids have their classes and there is not yet an Adult Class (non-coaches, non-professional) but when there are a few adults who can commit to the same time period, it's certainly on his priority list. He did tell us when discussing his plans that he will help each student (adult or otherwise) choose the right class - it's very direct between him and each student.

I'm excited too!!

You got this directly from Ilia? Cool! I'm glad to know that he has a clear picture of the details; that gives me confidence in the future success of the rink.

[Brandenburg]

You got this directly from Ilia? Cool! I'm glad to know that he has a clear picture of the details; that gives me confidence in the future success of the rink.

Yep, that's what he said.

He sat down and had a long discussion with Krew members almost exactly a year ago about his plans, a lot of specifics and he answered a lot of questions. I look forward to everyone being able to hear him discuss Kulik's Skating in his own words soon via interviews that are in his planning. He is very specific, he has thought a great deal about the details of his program, and is very passionate and inspiring (that was our collective impression after our chat) when he speaks about it. He is extremely clear about what he is doing, why and how. I can't speak for him (would never do that) but I can assure you that he has a lot to say on the topic - and it's all fascinating stuff!

[jjane45]

I am sure I'll drop by when I next visit LA area! Very exciting environment.

[deedee1]

Just 'WOW' to this wonderful news!

Must be a dream of dreams, besides the Olympic gold medal, for any figure skaters to have their OWN rink/facilities to skate, teach and raise the next generations for the sport they love so much, isn't it?

Best of luck to Ilia and Katia!