Skating Coaches Say ‘Thank You’

Skating Coaches Say ‘Thank You’
July 15, 2011
The Post-Journal

To the Readers' Forum:

Due to recent, quickly developing opportunities, we have decided to relocate our program to Buffalo. Because of our deep and long-standing involvement with the area, our decision was not lightly made, nor was it without a fair amount of sadness.

The Skating Academy has had a great run here in Jamestown. We are extremely proud of our skaters and their accomplishments Skaters have represented Jamestown on the national and international level in competitions throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

We have produced over 100 skaters who have passed the "gold" test. The "gold" test is a rigorous set of standards, representing the highest level of achievement and skill, and is sanctioned by the U.S. Figure Skating.

Working together with Mary Handley and the Jamestown Skating Club, we have hosted the U.S. Junior Nationals, three regional championships, as well as 15 Skate Chautauquas and 12 Winter Games competitions. The crown jewel of the program, "Excellence on Ice," sparked professional performing careers for many of our skaters who have toured the world with such programs as Disney on Ice and the Ice Capades.

We are extremely proud of our accomplishments here, especially considering our humble beginnings at Allen Park. We are also grateful and humbled by the tremendous support that we have always received from the community and our "skating family."

A special thanks is in order to the Gebbie Foundation, for creating the world's finest skating arena; to the arena management, which was instrumental in creating an unparalleled work environment; and to the local businesses and sponsors who generously supported us throughout the years.

Lenel van den Berg

Kirk Wyse

Co-directors

Jamestown Skating Academy