Figure skating champ Elvis Stojko looks to give back when he visits small-town Canada

Elvis Stojko, the Olympic silver medallist and three-time world champion figure skater, has always had a special connection to small-town Canada. Growing up in Queensville, Ont., he started his skating journey in Newmarket, a small town where skating legends like Brian Orser and Donald Jackson inspired the next generation of skaters at his club.

Reflecting on his own experiences being inspired by watching figure skating on TV, Stojko emphasizes the importance of seeing the sport live in person. He believes that witnessing the skill and artistry of a figure skater up close can ignite a spark in young viewers, motivating them to pursue their own dreams and goals in the sport.

As someone who has benefitted from the mentorship and inspiration of figure skating greats, Stojko recognizes the importance of giving back to the sport and the community. He makes a point of visiting small communities across the country to connect with local skaters, share his passion for figure skating, and inspire the next generation of champions.

In a recent interview with CBC’s Daybreak North host Carolina De Ryk, Stojko discussed his upcoming shows in Mackenzie, B.C., scheduled for March 1 and 2, 2025. He expressed his excitement about performing in small communities like Mackenzie, where he can showcase the sport he loves and interact with local audiences.

Stojko also reflected on the golden age of men’s figure skating in Canada, noting that the sport has evolved over the years and may not have the same level of mainstream popularity it once did. Despite these changes, he remains committed to keeping figure skating thriving in the country and preserving its rich heritage of champions.

With a lineup of local figure skaters joining him for the shows in Mackenzie, Stojko is eager to connect with the community and share his passion for the sport. He values the opportunity to perform in smaller venues and engage with audiences who may not have the chance to attend larger skating events.

As Stojko prepares for his upcoming performances in Mackenzie, he looks forward to inspiring and entertaining audiences of all ages. Through his dedication to promoting figure skating in small communities, he hopes to continue the legacy of Canadian skating excellence and inspire future generations of champions.