At Skating Edge Ice Arena, our coaching staff comes from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, each bringing something unique to the ice while sharing a common goal: helping skaters grow with confidence, skill, and a genuine love for skating.
In this installment of our Staff Coach Spotlight series, we’re highlighting Jennifer Ito, a coach whose journey spans competitive skating, international performance, and more than 20 years of professional show skating.
Jennifer trained under renowned coach Frank Carroll, one of the most respected figures in the sport and coach to Olympic and World champions. His influence helped shape not only her skating, but the thoughtful and supportive approach she brings to her students today.
A Lifelong Connection to Skating
Jennifer’s journey into skating began at a young age, sparked by a moment that would ultimately shape her career.
“It was actually my dad that got me into skating. He saw Dorothy Hamill on TV and thought, ‘My kid can do that.’”
From there, skating became a constant. Through challenges, competitions, and growth, she continued to move forward, building a career that evolved from competitive skating to professional performance and, ultimately, coaching.
A Coaching Philosophy Built on Experience
Training under Frank Carroll left a lasting impact on Jennifer’s approach to coaching. His ability to support each skater as an individual while encouraging personal growth is something she carries with her today.
“His emphasis was always on focusing on your own challenge versus competing against others.”
Jennifer brings that same mindset to her students, creating an environment where skaters feel supported, valued, and motivated to improve at their own pace.
From Competition to Performance
Jennifer’s experience extends beyond competition into the world of professional skating, including performing alongside Dorothy Hamill in Ice Capades.
Those experiences shaped her understanding of skating as both a technical and expressive sport.
She encourages her skaters to connect with their music, develop their own style, and understand that performance is an important part of the skating experience, regardless of level.
Developing Strong, Confident Skaters
At the core of Jennifer’s coaching is a focus on strong fundamentals. Edge work, movement, and control are essential building blocks that allow skaters to progress and express themselves on the ice.
“The stronger the edge work, the stronger the skater. The more I can do with choreography, the more they can express.”
By developing these skills, her students gain not only technical ability, but also confidence in how they move and perform.
Building Confidence On and Off the Ice
One of the biggest challenges Jennifer sees in skaters at all levels is confidence.
Her approach is rooted in patience, understanding, and helping skaters work through challenges in a supportive environment.
“I love seeing that ‘oh, I get it’ moment. You can see their confidence grow right there.”
Those moments are what make coaching meaningful, and they are often where the biggest growth happens.
A Coach for Every Skater
Jennifer works with skaters of all ages and levels, from those stepping onto the ice for the first time to those pursuing more advanced goals.
She adapts her coaching style to each individual, recognizing that every skater learns differently and brings their own strengths to the ice.
Her goal is simple: to help each skater enjoy the process, continue improving, and find their own path within the sport.
Interested in Working with Jennifer Ito?
Jennifer Ito is currently accepting new students at Skating Edge Ice Arena.
She offers:
- Private on-ice coaching
- Choreography and program development
- Edge work and moves in the field instruction
- Coaching for all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced skaters
📞 Contact: EMAIL | PHONE
📍 Location: Skating Edge Ice Arena
Learn More About Our Coaching Team
The strength of Skating Edge lies in its people.
Our Staff Coach Spotlight series highlights the diverse expertise and teaching styles that make our rink a supportive place for skaters of all ages and levels.
Follow along as we continue to spotlight the coaches who help shape the Skating Edge community — on and off the ice.
