There are two Dunstan Students who have qualified for the NZIFSA National Championships.

Arleigha Blissett - Year 10

Arleigha has had a fantastic skating season this year, achieving many of the goals she set for herself.  One of her biggest achievements was qualifying for Nationals at her very first competition of the season - a fantastic accomplishment and a testament to the dedication she has put into her skating.  Arleigha was nominated by her fellow skaters as the Skaters Rep for the Alexandra Ice Skating Club.  She gives back to the club by helping Coach Kiwiskate and supporting and encouraging our younger skaters.  Arleigha is a wonderful role model, demonstrating commitment, sportsmanship and a willingness to help others.  We are incredibly proud of everything Arleigha has achieved this season and look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next.

                     Arleigha Blissett

Astrid Smith - Year 11

Astrid started skating at age two and then lessons with  Alexandra Ice Skating Club from age three.  She skated competitively from age seven until 12 where she decided to take a complete break from any skating.  In mid - late July this year at age 15, she laced up her skates, entering the South Island Championships just over three weeks later.  Sustaining a meniscus knee injury in football just a week back into her skating, she continued under the guidance of her Physio and  was coached by her older Sister Maia, winning her division at South Islands.  With a meniscus that is still healing Astrid has had nearly two months of no ice aside from training in the school holidays in Christchurch on ice under Coach Marina Tsevina, with the rest of her training off ice at NRG gym in Alexandra.  Astrid is proud to represent Alexandra Ice Skating Club in Youth Interpretive Silver next week.

           Astrid Smith