In figure skating, results on the ice tell only part of the story. The relationships athletes build with their coaches, and the way those relationships are experienced, matter too. This is one such story.
THE POWER OF A MENTOR
Youth figure skating asks a great deal of young athletes. Alongside technical skill, it requires consistency, patience, and the ability to work through setbacks. A coach’s role in that process extends beyond instruction — it includes creating an environment where athletes feel supported and motivated to keep developing over time.
Laura Lipetsky’s coaching practice reflects a focus on long-term athlete development. She works with young skaters at different stages of their journey, with an emphasis on steady progress and a positive experience of the sport.
A SKATER SPEAKS
Alice Zhang is a young figure skater who describes herself on Instagram as skating with love and fun, and as someone who enjoys learning and gives her best every day. Her account is monitored by her parents. Recently, she shared a public message of appreciation for her coach.
On her Instagram, Alice posted a message of gratitude directed at Laura. In her own words:
“Your passion, kindness, and dedication shine through every moment on the ice. Proud to be learning with you!”
— Alice Zhang (@allie_moz), via Instagram Story
Alice’s words highlight three qualities she observed in Laura — passion, kindness, and dedication — and note that these were present throughout her experience on the ice. The message reflects a positive and appreciative coaching relationship.
A PHILOSOPHY IN PRACTICE
Laura Lipetsky’s approach is grounded in long-term athlete development — the principle that sustained progress over time is more valuable than short-term results. Technical foundations matter: edges, posture, timing, and strength are all part of the work. Alongside these, she prioritises confidence and a genuine enjoyment of the sport.
This means that progress is measured not only in the elements a skater can perform, but in how they respond to challenges and how they experience their time on the ice. Consistency and a supportive environment are central to Laura’s work with her students.
Alice’s comment that dedication “shines through every moment on the ice” reflects the kind of consistent, engaged coaching that Laura aims to provide. It is the type of feedback that speaks to the day-to-day experience of being a student in her programme.
GROWING CONFIDENT YOUNG ATHLETES
Competitive achievements are one measure of a coaching programme. Another is the experience students have along the way — whether they feel engaged, respected, and motivated to continue developing in the sport.
Alice Zhang’s message is a reflection of her personal experience as a student in Laura’s programme. It is shared here with the straightforward intention of highlighting what a supportive coaching relationship can look like for a developing young skater.
Laura Lipetsky is committed to providing a positive and developmental experience for each of her students, at every stage of their skating journey.
