If you’re a Downriver skater, you should know that Southgate is the community that offers the most when it comes to on-the-ice activities and programs. Here’s an overview of what’s been happening, and what is coming, for Southgate – and Downriver – skating.

Southgate Figure Skating Club had 50 skaters compete in the Michigan Basic Skills Competition Series in the past skating season. The skaters earned points at the 14 different competitions throughout the year. Southgate Figure Skating Club earned the third-place trophy for skating clubs in the state, out of 46 participating clubs.

The club was thrilled to also have three individual state champions: Mila Horton – Basic Two State Champ; Stella Soltesz – Basic Three State Champ; and Ila Behrik – Basic Four State Champ.

Besides the medals the skaters won, they also learned lessons that will benefit them in life. They progressed in their skating skills and cemented lifelong friendships.

“Our skating club and basic skills skating are gearing up for the upcoming Basic Skills Series, learning their new programs,” said Skating Director Jackie Timm. “The series kicked off February 3 in Macomb and will wrap up November 9 in Midland. Southgate will host their competition in the series on October 4.”


2024 Spectacular on Ice

The Southgate Parks and Recreation Department and the Southgate Figure Skating Booster Club are looking forward to their annual Spectacular on Ice this season. This year will be their 48th annual show, titled “Skating Around the World.” The show will be held at the Southgate Ice Arena April 26, 27 and 28, with four shows being held over the weekend. This show will be directed by longtime Southgate Figure Skater and now coach, Kaytlynn Bodnar.

“We look forward to Kaytlynn’s vision coming to life on the ice this year,” said Parks and Recreation Director Julie Goddard.


Facility has it all

The Southgate Parks and Recreation Department, along with the Southgate Figure Skating Club, offer the most progressive and recreational figure skating program in the Downriver area. They offer a complete U.S. Figure Skating and Ice Sports Industry (ISI) programs, with classes and tests in learn to skate, freestyle, skating skills, adult, aspire, couples and dance, as well as off-ice conditioning. They are endorsed to hold competitions, exhibitions and shows.

The Southgate Ice Arena is also home to three high school varsity figure skating teams – Southgate Anderson/Gabriel Richard/Flat Rock, Downriver United and Grosse Ile/Lincoln Park/Milan.


States competition coming to Downriver

The Southgate Ice Arena will also be hosting the 2023-2024 Laura Maki Michigan High School Championships (STATES) on March 9 and 10. This is the first time that states has been located in the Downriver area. The competition will host teams from all over the state, including the U.P. Skaters and teams will compete in both individual and team competition to aim for the coveted state titles. A few of the Downriver teams have earned placements in the top three the last few years and have also had several state champs in individual events.

For more information about classes, watch the Southgate Parks and Recreation Facebook page for upcoming classes and event information. If you have any questions about the Southgate Figure Skating Club or upcoming classes and offerings you can email Skating Director Jackie Timm at jtimm@southgatemi.gov.

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