By: Pj Kwong

Skate Canada International 2025 is once again bringing world-class figure skating to Canadian ice in Saskatoon, showcasing the artistry, athleticism, and passion that define the sport. As one of the premier events on the ISU Grand Prix circuit, the competition not only offers fans a chance to see top international talent but also shines a spotlight on some of Canada’s brightest stars. This year, all eyes will be on Skate Ontario’s ice dance duo Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier who are debuting their Olympic programs in Saskatoon.

I will also have my eye on men’s singles skater Stephen Gogolev who is fresh off a decisive win with a 14 point margin at the annual Nebelhorn competition. Stephen’s talent has always set him apart and now, as a mature and polished competitor, he enters this year’s Skate Canada International with renewed confidence and consistency. His programs highlight both his explosive technical ability and his growing command of performance, offering a balance between athletic precision and artistic flow. For fans in Saskatoon, we could be  witnessing potential transform into promise — a glimpse of what the next generation of Canadian champions might look like.

Stephen Gogolev

Coach Lee Barkell had this to share: “In preparation for this upcoming Olympic season, our plan is for Stephen to participate in additional competitions, including Skate Canada International.  Stephen is looking forward to these opportunities, and the team is energized for the chance to showcase his growth in front of a supportive home crowd.  Skate Canada will serve as excellent preparation for Nationals in January giving Stephen the valuable experience needed in an environment that closely mirrors what to expect at Nationals.” One step at a time.

Early one morning a couple of weeks ago, I made the trek to Piper and Paul’s training facility in Scarborough, Ontario to catch a glimpse of their free dance. This is the evolution of a piece that they did 7 years ago and I believe put them securely on the map as innovators and leaders in the ice dance world. ‘Vincent’ (Starry, Starry Night) continues an artistic journey for Piper and Paul that drew me in emotionally and not just critically. The technical elements are all there with a few nods to highlights from the original Vincent 1.0 program version from 7 years ago. What caught me off guard, although it shouldn’t have, was the artistry and how it made me feel rather than think. Vincent Van Gough was inspiration for Don McLean’s original song with his painting The Starry Night taking pride of place. Coach Carol Lane sees it this way: “The original free dance was like the sketch and what we have created for this season is the completed painting.” This pretty much sums it up.

As reigning World medalists, Piper and Paul have been fan favourites for years, known for their originality and willingness to take artistic risks. For my money, their performances are more than competitions; they are theatrical experiences that leave a lasting impression long after the final note fades. Trust me.

Piper and Paul see themselves this way:

Stephen Gogolev, meanwhile, represents the future of Canadian men’s skating. The Toronto native first captured attention as a prodigy, landing quadruple jumps at an age when most skaters are just mastering triples. Now a mature and polished competitor, Gogolev enters this year’s Skate Canada International with renewed confidence and consistency. His programs highlight both his explosive technical ability and his growing command of performance, offering a balance between athletic precision and artistic flow. For fans, watching Gogolev compete is witnessing potential transform into promise — a glimpse of what the next generation of Canadian champions might look like.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the magic of figure skating, Skate Canada International 2025 promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent, creativity, and the enduring spirit of Canadian skating where Skate Ontario athletes will be front and centre:

Men:   

Stephen Gogolev

Roman Sadovsky

Women:  

Madeline Schizas

Pairs:

Lia Pereira & Trennt Michaud

Ice Dance:

Piper Gilles & Paul Poirier

Make sure to follow along with Skate Canada International by following @skateontario on your favourite platform. We are #skateontarioproud of all our skaters!