By: Pj Kwong

Every year, Skate Ontario stages competitions in a variety of series across all disciplines that are tailored to the skill and competition level of the skaters. The first event in the Provincial Series takes place in early October in Brampton.

Let’s face it, the Provincial Series is a cornerstone of competitive figure skating in the province, offering skaters of all levels the opportunity to showcase their skills and progress through a structured pathway. At multiple locations throughout the season, the series provides consistent, high-quality events that emphasize development, performance, and competition experience.

From StarSkate to higher-level categories, skaters earn points throughout the series, culminating in qualification for the Provincial Championships to be held in late March 2026. The series not only supports athlete growth but also fosters a keen sense of community among skaters, coaches, officials, and families across Ontario.

Olympic coach Carol Lane, who also has skaters in this series, highlights the opportunities offered by the Provincial Series in Ontario this way: “Participation in the Provincial series as well as the Provincial Championships can be an important steppingstone for skaters provided they are able to access the events. It has to be said that navigating registration windows, limited spots, and high demand can be a real challenge for athletes and families trying to plan their season.” That high demand is a definite double-edged sword but also highlights that competing in Ontario is thriving.

Competitive opportunities like the Skate Ontario Provincial series and Championship play a crucial role in the development of aspiring figure skaters. These events provide a structured environment for athletes to test their skills, gain valuable feedback from officials, and experience the pressures and excitement of high-level competition. Beyond rankings and medals, the Provincial Championships foster growth in confidence, performance maturity, and goal-setting—key qualities for any skater aiming to progress through the competitive pathway. It’s also a chance to be part of a broader skating community, where athletes, coaches, and families come together to celebrate hard work and dedication. For many skaters, qualifying for and competing at Provincials is a meaningful milestone on the journey toward national and even international success.

“The Skate Ontario Provincial Series is the heartbeat of our skating community – providing skaters and coaches with invaluable competitive experience and a clear road map for progression,” said Skate Ontario’s Executive Director Lisa Alexander. “Qualifying for the Provincial Championships through this series is not just a milestone, it’s a celebration of their hard work, resilience, and the unwavering support of their coaches and families.“

Keep your eye on the rink. You just never know when you are watching a Provincial Series event if a skater or two is going to end up eventually reaching the pinnacle of the sport. It is thrilling to think and definitely makes us #SkateOntarioProud. As always, the Skate Ontario Provincial Championships are being streamed, and if you want to be able to check out the action yourself – check things out here.

In the meantime, whatever your goals we are #SkateOntarioProud.