LATEST NEWS
Milanѐ Gamberini and Philip Malan: Chaos, chemistry, and South Africa’s first Basic Novice pairs debut
Some partnerships are built carefully on paper, while others reveal themselves the moment two skaters step onto the ice together. For Milanѐ Gamberini and Philip Malan, it began with a try-out lesson in 2022. Three years later, they will make history as South Africa’s first Basic Novice Pairs team to debut at an ISU-listed international […]
Courtney Kuhn: The edge that changed everything
Courtney Kuhn’s skating story begins not with ambition, but with shade. Growing up in Cape Town, her family sought refuge from the midday sun at GrandWest. Her brothers skated while she watched from the side. Then, at four years old, she stepped onto the main rink for five minutes at the end of a session. […]
Creating a Digital platform for SAFSA
SAFSA has begun a process to address better communication and transparency. To guide us effectively, we are asking what communication you would like to receive, and in what format, to enhance your overall experience in our sport. While you may still complete the survey anonymously, we kindly request that you provide your details this time. […]
Cody Kock: Building for Junior Worlds, one clean skate at a time
Ask Cody Kock what changed this past season, and he will not point to a single jump. He will talk about time, learning to manage it, and the stress that goes along with studying Grade 12 while chasing scores on the ice. “The biggest lesson I have learned was time management,” he says. “I have […]
What does a figure skating judge do?
A figure skating judge plays a crucial role in evaluating and scoring the quality of performances delivered during competitions. Their responsibilities are guided by the rules and standards set by the International Skating Union (ISU) or the relevant national federation. In this case, the South African Figure Skating Association (SAFSA). Here’s a breakdown of what […]
Etienne Dreyer on a milestone in Oberstdorf and a life given to figure skating
The ice first hooked Etienne Dreyer across the road from his school in Johannesburg. Wednesdays meant half-price sessions, and the pull was immediate. “From the moment I was on the ice, the feeling of gliding freely, the cool air on my face and the sound of the music made me want to go back again […]
SAFSA welcomes visiting ISU coach Eeva Sunnari to support synchronised skating growth
Synchronised skating in South Africa is set for a timely boost with the upcoming visit of Eeva Sunnari, who will be in the country in her capacity as a Visiting ISU Coach. With development work in 14 countries, she says her goal is to help South African skaters, coaches, and stakeholders build practical momentum. “Having […]
Shirene Human – Nagano, Japan – 1998
Shirene Human (09/01/1980 – 08/10/2025) The South African Figure Skating Association (SAFSA) mourns the passing of Shirene Human, South Africa’s last female figure skater to represent our nation at the Olympic Games. Shirene was a trailblazer who carried the South African flag with grace, strength, and pride on the world stage. As a nine-time national […]
Team Illusion celebrates national victory built on unity and diversity
Team Illusion, the all-female mixed-age synchronised skating team from Gauteng North and 2025 South African champions, are coached by Konrad Giering and Lejeanne Hennessy. Captained by Mathilda du Plessis, Team Illusion describes itself as a family. In their words, they are “truly united as one, with strong bonds that ensure no one is ever left […]
Johann and Julia: Building a pair worth watching
Photo credit: @Wilma.alberti In a sport that demands trust, resilience, and near-perfect synchronicity, Johann Wilkinson and Julia Mauder are proving what is possible when two determined athletes find the right partnership despite the odds and the oceans between them. The pair met during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, connecting through icepartnersearch.com and quickly arranging […]
