For many skaters, graduating from high school can also mean stepping away from the sport they love. Between demanding course loads, changing schedules and the challenges of student life, finding time to stay involved in skating is not always easy. Since 2019, McMaster Figure Skating Development (MacFSD) has been working to change that.

Founded as a space where McMaster University students could continue skating while building meaningful connections, MacFSD has grown into a thriving community that welcomes skaters of all levels. Whether someone is stepping onto the ice for the first time or continuing their STARSkate journey, the club provides accessible opportunities to stay active, learn new skills and remain connected to the sport.

Photo credit: McMaster Figure Skating Development on Instagram

Today, MacFSD offers a range of programs, including Learn to Skate, Learn to Figure Skate, STAR 1-3, STAR 4+, and adult synchro through its Epic Edge team. Recognizing the realities of university life, programs are designed around student schedules with manageable one or two-session weekly commitments, supported by both Skate Ontario coaches and dedicated volunteers.

Built By Students, For Students

What makes MacFSD truly unique is that it is exclusively for McMaster students. Sessions run late into the evening, sometimes ending as late as midnight, creating an environment tailored to campus life.

The result is a community where conversations about new skills and skating goals often blend with discussions about midterms, favourite study spots and the latest campus happenings. Through a shared love of skating, friendships have formed across faculties and programs, connecting students who may never have crossed paths otherwise.

“Community” is the word the team uses to describe MacFSD, and it is woven into every aspect of the club.

On any given day, members can be found studying together in the library, meeting for coffee between classes or supporting each other both on and off the ice.

A Milestone Year

One of MacFSD’s proudest accomplishments came this season when every program reached capacity.

For a fully student-run organization, the achievement represents years of dedication and community-building. Demand has grown so significantly that waitlists have been introduced for several programs, allowing the club to connect with more students than ever before.

The organization has also developed a growing library of resources tailored specifically to university-aged skaters. These guides cover topics such as skate care and equipment resources in the Hamilton area, what to wear for skating sessions and goal-setting strategies that help students balance academics and athletics.

Keeping Skaters Connected to the Sport

For many members, MacFSD fills an important gap.

Photo credit: McMaster Figure Skating Development on Instagram

The transition to university often means leaving behind competitive programs, coaches and training environments that have been a central part of life for years. MacFSD provides a welcoming alternative, offering flexible programming that allows skaters to continue participating in the sport regardless of their goals, experience level or availability.

The club takes pride in creating a space where students skate simply because they love it.

By accommodating busy schedules and recognizing the demands of university life, MacFSD has become a place where former competitive athletes, recreational skaters and newcomers alike can continue to enjoy being on the ice.

A Show With Heart

While the club hosts a variety of community-building events throughout the year, there is one tradition members look forward to most: the annual year-end show.

The event is entirely student-driven, with skaters collaborating on everything from music selection to costumes. Hair, makeup and costume nights bring members together before the performance, often accompanied by potlucks and plenty of laughter.

What makes the show special is not elaborate sets or extravagant productions. Instead, it is the overwhelming support from the audience. Roommates, classmates, professors, parents and siblings fill the stands to celebrate the skaters and everything they have accomplished throughout the season.

Whether a skater lands a waltz jump or a double Axel, the reaction is the same: enthusiastic cheers and encouragement from a community that genuinely wants to see every participant succeed.

Powered by Passion

Perhaps most impressive is that MacFSD is run entirely by students. Every email, social media post, newsletter, event and practice is organized by a team of student executives who are passionate about creating opportunities for fellow skaters.

Photo credit: McMaster Figure Skating Development on Instagram

As students graduate, the team is both proud and nostalgic to see them move on to new opportunities. Yet the club’s mission remains unchanged: to create a supportive community where students can continue pursuing their passion for skating.

Through flexible programming, dedicated student leadership and a welcoming culture, MacFSD has proven that there is always a place for skating in university life. More than a club, it is a community where friendships are formed, confidence is built and a lifelong love of skating continues to thrive.