Central Pennsylvania is rapidly becoming a hub for ice sports, extending beyond its well-established hockey fanbase to embrace figure skating and other disciplines. A growing number of events and dedicated facilities are drawing athletes and spectators to the region, solidifying its position as a winter sports destination.
The region’s embrace of ice sports isn’t recent, but its expansion is noteworthy. While hockey maintains a strong presence, figure skating, particularly synchronized skating, is gaining momentum. This growth is fueled by dedicated clubs and organizations, as well as a legacy dating back to the origins of the Ice Capades in 1940 at Hersheypark Arena, leaving a lasting impact on the sport’s development.
Hershey and Central Pennsylvania: A Dual Hub for Skating
The Hershey-Harrisburg Sports and Events Authority notes that the area boasts approximately seven ice rinks within a 10- to 15-minute drive of Hersheypark, demonstrating a significant infrastructure investment in ice sports. Greg Cook, the executive director of the authority, highlighted the region as “a little bit of a hotbed when it comes to things like figure skating and ice hockey.” FOX43 reported on this growing scene.
Two key organizations are central to this development: the Hershey Figure Skating Club and the Central Pennsylvania Figure Skating Club. The Hershey Figure Skating Club, established in 1934, provides skating instruction for all ages and skill levels, encompassing figure skating, hockey skills, and competitive programming. Yelp details the club’s specialization in learn-to-skate classes and elite competitive training.
The Central Pennsylvania Figure Skating Club, meanwhile, focuses on growing skaters of all levels, with a particular emphasis on synchronized skating. According to their official website, the club promotes the sport through events and competitions and actively contributes to the local community. Recently, board member Rachel Zilbering was appointed as a Qualifying Announcer by US Figure Skating, a testament to the club’s dedication and expertise.
Events Showcase Regional Talent
Events like the Annual Reflections Synchro Invitational, hosted in the region, highlight the growing popularity of synchronized skating, a discipline not typically featured in the Winter Olympics. These events draw participants and spectators from across the country, boosting the local economy and showcasing the region’s capabilities in hosting ice sports competitions.
The Hershey Figure Skating Club also offers a variety of programs, including Theater on Ice classes and special events, as well as therapeutic, adaptive, and wheels on ice programs, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility within the sport. Hershey Figure Skating Club’s website provides details on these offerings.
The continued growth of ice sports in central Pennsylvania is attracting visitors and establishing the region as a prominent destination for both participants and fans. The combination of established hockey roots, a thriving figure skating community, and dedicated facilities positions central Pennsylvania for continued success in the world of ice sports.
Looking ahead, the region is poised to continue expanding its role in the ice sports landscape. With ongoing investment in facilities and a growing base of dedicated athletes and organizations, central Pennsylvania is well-positioned to host more events and attract even greater participation in the years to come. Share your thoughts on the growing ice sports scene in central Pennsylvania in the comments below.
