USU Figure Skating Club prepares for another season looking for progression

The Utah State University Figure Skating Club has seen growth throughout the last few years, attracting more members and supporters every year.  

Kyra Hoctor, the head coach of the USU Figure Skating Club, has played a large role in the club’s expansion.  

Hoctor joined the club as a member her freshman year in 2021. Between her freshman and senior year, she became an officer and the president of the club.  

Hoctor explained that the club is a very inclusive and supportive environment.  

“We try to let as many people skate as we can,” Hoctor said.  

Hoctor explained the different teams that are available within the figure skating club.  

“We have a non-competitive and a competitive team. If you’re on the non-competitive, it’s a very laid-back type of club,” Hoctor said. “The competitive side has a little bit more requirements just because they’re competing three to four times a year. They’ve got an extra added-on practice, and they’re required to show up to at least one of those.” 

Whether an individual is a beginner or an experienced skater, there’s a place on the team to accommodate everyone.  

The team practices three times a week at the George S. Eccles Ice Center.  

Hoctor said she tries to give all team members equal time on the ice, allowing them to develop their skills and gain experience.  

When asked about how they are preparing for the upcoming figure skating season, Hoctor said season prep started earlier than normal this year.  

“We’re actually hosting the first competition of the season, so Aggie Open is happening in two weeks,” Hoctor said.  

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Head coach and recent graduate Kyra Hoctor, center, talks to the club at the end of the Oct. 25 practice at the Eccles Ice Center. (Utah Statesman / Owen Clarke)

Hoctor said this is the second time they have hosted this competition, and while this is exciting, it also requires work behind the scenes.  

“Every person that you see competing will also be volunteering throughout the entire weekend,” Hoctor said. “Everybody’s just kind of nonstop coming to the rink, practicing, showing up and running programs.” 

Sarah Klomp, the communications and social media/competition management officer, has been skating since she was nine.  

When asked about her favorite part of being a member of the figure skating club, Klomp said she most valued the friendships that she gained throughout the experience.  

“I just love the people on the team and the friendship that I get out of it,” Klomp said. “It’s fun having all the support of everyone.” 

Remei Smith, the president of the USU Figure Skating Club, started ice skating in the summer of 2024, just before coming to college.  

Smith explained that the intensity of collegiate skating is a contributing factor to why she loves the USU Figure Skating Club.  

“We have a lot of people that quit and then come back to do collegiate skating, because it’s less intense while still being supportive and competitive,” Smith said.  

Grace McRae, a volunteer and fundraising committee member, began skating during her elementary school years, carrying her passion for the sport all the way to the collegiate level.  

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USU figure skating club president Remei Smith starts a run-through of her routine during the club’s Sunday morning practice on Oct. 25 at the Eccles Ice Center. (Utah Statesman / Owen Clarke)

McRae said she enjoys being a representative figure for Utah State when she is skating. 

“I like being able to represent Utah State and wear the logo and go with the school,” McRae said.  

When asked about what skills figure skating had taught these members that have carried into their everyday lives, Smith said she has developed organizational skills that she can use in her future career.  

“I’ve learned a lot of professional skills, especially as a recreation major, that is going to just transfer over directly to my career,” Smith said.  

Klomp explained her development of perseverance and hard work that she believes will be useful in her future.  

“I feel like a big thing is just kind of seeing it through to the end,” Klomp said.  

Last spring, the USU Figure Skating Club had the opportunity to co-host the national competition with the University of Utah.  

Smith said the energy and passion that went into planning nationals made it an unforgettable experience.  

“We did a lot of decorations and kind of team bonding moments with the other teams that we don’t usually get at Aggie Open,” Smith said.  

Klomp expressed her interest in observing and connecting with teams from around the nation, both on and off the ice.  

“I thought it was really cool because we got to see other teams from the rest of the nation and how they skate,” Klomp said.  

McRae said she also enjoyed interacting with the other nations’ teams and witnessing them represent each other during the competition. 

“They all get to hold their flag, so it’s kind of fun just to see the whole spread,” McRae said.  

When asked to describe the USU Figure Skating Club in three words, it was described as a welcoming community full of fun, supportive team members and coaches.  

“[It’s] a place to belong,” Smith said.