Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association (GKSA), is a nonprofit association run by volunteers that is affiliated with US Figure Skating. People of all ages can participate in GKSA and learn various skills. People can learn to skate, experience figure skating, develop their hockey skills, compete in competitions, etc. You can join the GKSA in a variety of ways. Most apply to their Learn to Skate program but you can also sign up for one-on-one or group lessons by registering to be a member. GKSA has been known for hosting some spectacular events including the 2019 Midwest & Pacific Coast Synchronized Skating Sectionals. The event is coming back again this 2025 as the Midwest Synchronized Skating Sectionals going on from January 28th to February 2nd. So if you want to see some incredible skating skills, find more information here.
Learn to Skate
Entry-level skaters in Michigan can participate in the Michigan Basic Skills Series, which offers several competitions around the state for those learning to skate and wanting to compete. This series keeps pricing affordable, making it a great way to experience competition. Young skaters can showcase their moves at lower levels and win medals, providing a fun way to engage in competitive skating. The Michigan Skate Series runs from March to November, offering ample opportunities for learn-to-skate participants to compete and enjoy the sport.
Hockey players are also encouraged to join the Learn to Skate program to enhance their skating skill set. The program is endorsed by USA Hockey as their Learn to Skate curriculum. From here, skaters may move directly to a Learn to Play program.
Special Events
One of the bigger events thrown by the GKSA is the annual Holiday Ice Revue. This event showcases the talents and skills of competitive skaters of all levels, including featured soloists, soloists, group numbers, and team skating. All skaters will be sporting dazzling costumes tailored to their performance for added flare. This show is choreographed by nationally recognized coaches. Athletes typically skate to beloved holiday classics as well as other theater tunes. There are two shows held at Wings Event Center and the event is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket.
Another event is the Kick off Classic. It began in 1999 with 11 teams competing and now hosts over 130 teams with about 1700 skaters competing ranging from around the Midwest and Canada. Competitor levels range from beginning to senior with additional features of team critiques and a judges school. This synchronized skating allows teams of 8 to 20 athletes to perform challenging formations and step sequences. All teams perform a free skate with the required elements. Junior and senior-level teams also perform a short program. Normally this event occurs in late November.
Skill Builders
The Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association offers the Aspire Program for skaters at Learn to Skate levels Basic 3 and above. This program provides accelerated training, preparing skaters and their parents for club membership, and various opportunities like private lessons, competitions, and synchronized skating. Participants progress through a curriculum designed to enhance fundamental figure skating skills through on-ice instruction and off-ice training in a supportive environment. Classes include specific on-ice instruction, off-ice warm-ups and conditioning, and parent information sessions.
GKSA Teams
The high school teams in the GKSA are open to anyone in the greater Kalamazoo area. Students try out and join teams according to their skill level. They participate in three meets a year (December, January, and February) against different districts, with the opportunity to qualify for state finals. The team emphasizes individual elements, where skaters contribute points to their team's score. Beginner skaters are welcome and encouraged to try out.
Kalamazoo Kinetic, another synchronized skating team, holds tryouts in spring (April-May) and includes beginner to intermediate youth teams and adult (masters and open masters) teams. Skaters, 25 and older, can advance to the Masters' teams if they are interested. Many skaters from this program also compete on college teams or skate in professional shows like Disney on Ice and travel globally. The Kalamazoo Kinetic aims to unite all skaters into a supportive group, enhancing individual speed, endurance, and basic skills while providing a competitive, positive learning experience. They focus on fostering strong bonds, sportsmanship, and personal growth, ensuring skaters finish each season as better athletes and individuals.
Skate the Zoo
Entry-level skaters can participate in the Michigan Basic Skills Series, which offers several competitions across the state for those learning to skate and wanting to compete. This series keeps costs low, providing an excellent way to experience competitive skating. Young skaters can showcase their skills at lower levels and have the chance to win medals. Overall the Michigan Skate Series, running from March to November, exists to offer a fun and accessible way for new skaters to engage in competition.
