“At Chicago Figure Skating School, we believe skating is more than a sport. It's a journey that builds character, instills discipline, and fosters resilience.”
- Maria Jezak-Athey, Co-Founder
Meet The Team
Maria-Jezak Athey: Co-Founder
International/Team USA Coach, Coached Olympic Champion Evan Lysacek and Olympic Gold Medalist Alexa Scimeca, Olympics Qualifier, Three-time Polish National Champion, U.S. Figure Skating Core Certification
Ola Czyzewski-Choreographer
27 years experience as a competitive and professional skater, 2013 U.S. Collegiate Championships Silver Medal, 2014 Midwestern Sectional Championships 5th place, 8 contracts with Willy Bietak Productions on Royal Caribbean ships, Holiday On Ice and Dynamic Shows Entertainment, former finalist of American Ice Theater's Young Artists Showcase
Manol Atanasov-Jump Coach, Harness Specialist
2018 US National Collegiate Junior Men’s Champion and 3-time Senior Bulgarian Champion. Represented Bulgaria at European and World Figure Skating Championships. Performed with Royal Caribbean on both Atlantic routes, bringing global experience to his coaching. Holds a Kinesiology degree from the University of Illinois Chicago and a Doctor of Chiropractic from the National University of Health Sciences. Currently practices in Park Ridge, IL. parkridgechiroandacu.com
Sarah Nuñez-Coach
Former Team USA competitor at the Junior and Senior levels, mastering all triple jumps and advanced spins. Recognized for exceptional edge work and strong skating skills. Currently pursuing a career in pairs skating while actively coaching. Experience coaching skaters of all levels—from beginners and adult skaters to international competitors. Known for a collaborative, personalized approach to training. Offers a dual athlete-coach perspective to developing jumps, spins, and foundational skating skills
Francine Larson-Coach
USFS Gold Medalist, Former Regional, Sectional and National Collegiate Competitor, PSA Senior Rated, Freestyle Coach, Coached Beginner through Senior Level skaters for 23 years, Coached skaters at the Regional and National Collegiate Levels
Marcus Robinson - Off-Ice Strength and Conditioning
Division I Track & Field athlete at Illinois State University. B.S. in Exercise Science, 2008. Worked with Equinox Fitness Club and React Physical Therapy. Founded Kinect Health & Fitness in 2018 to unite elite training with restorative bodywork. Brings over 15 years of experience in movement science and performance optimization.
Our Approach
At Chicago Figure Skating School, we take a holistic approach to training, combining on-ice technique with off-ice conditioning. Our expert coaches refine jumps, spins, and skating skills, while off the ice, we focus on strength, flexibility, and agility. This well-rounded program builds both athletic performance and artistic expression, preparing skaters to excel in all areas of the sport.
Programs
Learn to Skate Classes (Group)
Start: September 6th 2025
Location: Johnny’s Ice House East
Date and Time: Saturday 9:45am-10:45am (on ice)11am-12pm (off ice)
Our Learn to Skate classes build strong skating fundamentals through a mix of structured drills and fun activities. Skaters develop balance, coordination, and confidence in a supportive setting led by experienced coaches with competitive backgrounds.
Cost: $45/hour (on ice), $20/hour (off ice)
Competitive
All year round
Location: Any of our Chicago locations
Date and Time: Student Dependent
Our competitive program is designed for skaters ready to take their skills to the next level. With expert coaching, advanced techniques, modern training methods, and discipline, skaters are challenged to grow and prepare for competition at the highest level.
Cost: Please contact us-prices vary depending on skater’s skill/availability
Private Lessons
All year round
Location: Any of our Chicago locations
Date and Time: Student Dependent
Our private lessons provide personalized, one-on-one coaching tailored to each skater’s goals. We also offer adult training and consultations to support skaters and their coaches.
Cost: $80-$100/hr of instruction for private, semi-private or zoom lessons depending on coach qualifications and credentials
Our Chicagoland locations
Chicago Figure Skating School serves the city and suburbs with convenient, accessible locations. Whether downtown or in a quieter area, our rinks offer top-tier training close to home.
Johnny’s Ice House West
Johnny’s Ice House East
Skatium Ice Arena
Centennial Ice Rink
Fifth Third Arena