Northfield Skating School

This year we have seven graduating seniors on our staff! This is a particularly special group since it is the final group of instructors who have been with NSS since I founded the program in 2005.

During their time with NSS, all of these coaches have grown tremendously and impacted the lives of hundreds of skaters. They have made huge contributions to our program as leaders, team members, and role models for our athletes. Congrats, seniors, we wish you luck and will miss you dearly!

L to R:
Amelia Shuster – St. Olaf College. Amelia has worked as a Skating Assistant and Skating Instructor with NSS for 2 years. She is organized, dedicated, and has a unique gift for connecting with and inspiring children. Amelia will pursue her interests in audiology and/or accounting.
Gao Yang – Carleton College Gao was on the founding staff of NSS. Her deep committment to our sport and her high level of skating skill have helped her impact many skaters of all levels, including beginners through advanced skaters and adults. Gao will be living in the twin cities next year and we hope to see her around at NSS!
Gene Uenishi – Carleton College Our first male coach, both hockey player and skater, Gene has worked with NSS for two years as a Skating Instructor and Webmaster. Gene has dedicated many hours of his own time to transforming the website into one of our main tools for communication and registration. He has also presented with Carey at national skating conferences. Gene hopes to join the Peace Corps and then attend graduate school.
Kat Zerebiec – Carleton College Kat has coached with the NSS staff for 3 years. During that time she has taught private and group lessons and provided great individual attention to skaters during lessons and practice. Kat’s enthusiasm and positivity have inspired skaters of all ages to have fun while learning skills.
Liz Bonawitz – Carleton College Liz, also on our founding staff, has been both a Skating Instructor and Assistant Director with NSS. Liz was hired as our first Assistant Director three years ago and has been on the front lines of much of the growth and development of NSS. Liz plans to teach social studies in the twin cities next year and will continue some work with NSS.

Not pictured:
Sofie Jokela – Northfield HS Sofie began skating with NSS and soon took on a staff role as a Skating Assistant. She has been coaches privately by Carey and earned 2nd place at the Farmington Spring Festival last year. Sofie will spend a year in Germany with Rotary before attending Beloit College.
Hattie Ryan – Northfield HS Hattie also started skating with NSS and has worked as a Skating Assistant with our younger skaters. She earned second place at the Farmington Spring Festival in her level last year. Hattie will attend Smith College in Massachusetts.