All Senior Skating Instructors listed below are on staff at The Rinks Poway ICE, however, they are independent contractors who use the Poway ICE facility to teach private lessons. Each Senior Skating Instructor sets their own schedules, lesson rates, and coaching policies. Lesson fees will vary depending upon the coach’s qualifications, teaching experience, and PSA Ratings.
Below, you will find a list of our staff Senior Skating Instructors, as well as our Learn to Skate Instructors (do not teach private lessons), a brief biography of their skating background and credentials. Feel free to contact them directly with the information provided or reach out to Kristen Perdue at kperdue@therinks.com, Skating School Lead to get connected with a coach!
Senior Skating Instructors
Number of Years Coaching: 15+ years
Disciplines/Specialties:
Competitive coaching; Choreography; Improvisation; Basic Skills; Skaters with Special Needs; Edge & Power Skating; Hockey Power Skating; Shows & Exhibitions; Spin Technique
Skating/Competitive Background:
- US Figure Skating Adult Sectionals Competitor, 2023
- North Atlantic Regional Competitor, 2007-2001
- US Figure Skating Association Double Gold Medalist - Free Skate & Moves-in-the-Field
- Pre-Bronze Ice Dance
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member – All Year Figure Skating Club
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
Coaching Credentials:
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
- CPR & Basic First Aid Certified
PSA Rating/Ranking:
- Master Sport Science
- Master Group
Formal Education:
- Master of Science in Family & Human Development, Arizona State University (online)
- Bachelor of Arts in Music Therapy, Belmont University, Nashville, TN
- Primary instruments - violin/fiddle, voice, guitar
- Secondary instruments - piano, ukulele, hand percussion, mandolin
- Background in ballet, jazz, tap & contemporary – 14+ years
Coaching Philosophy:
I believe every person has the capability to accomplish any goal with the guiding, supportive and encouraging hand of an invested teacher or coach. My goal as an instructor is to teach each of my students fundamental skating skills that will provide a solid foundation for a life-long love and career in competitive or recreational skating. More importantly, I strive to encourage a sense of determination, confidence, authenticity, and accomplishment in each of my students by adapting my teaching style to meet their needs.
Fun Fact:
I wrote a children’s songbook and I enjoy making art in my studio!
Email: Kristen.ashley126@gmail.com
Number of Years Coaching: 20+ years
Discipline/ Specialties:
Competitive coaching; Basic Skills; Freestyle; Moves in the Field; Pairs technique; Edges/Power; Choreography
I currently coach recreational and competitive skaters from the grassroots level up to Senior Level. I have experience teaching Moves in The Field and Free Skate Tests from Pre-Preliminary up to Senior. I currently work with a singles skater and pairs team that are on the 2021 National Development Team. I’ve had multiple pair teams compete at Nationals at the Juvenile and Intermediate level.
Skating/Competitive Background:
- National Competitor in Pairs for 16 years with 11 years at the Championship level
- National Competitor in Singles for 1 year at the Novice level
- Junior World Competitor, 2008
- Four Continent ISU Championship Competitor, 2008
- International Competitor in Pairs representing the United States for 9 years on the Jr. Grand Prix and Sr. Grand Prix Circuit
- Performed in shows on PolyGlide Synthetic Ice
- USFS Triple Gold Test Medalist - Free Skate, Moves in the Field, Pairs
- Coached by World and Olympic Level Coaches
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Member – All Year Figure Skating Club
- Learn to Skate USA Instructor Member
- US Figure Skating Committee Member, 2021-2022, 2023-2024
Coaching Credentials:
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
PSA Rating/Ranking:
- Certified Group
- Level 4 Ranking - Pairs
Coaching Philosophy:
Skating is my passion and want to give back to the sport of figure skating by helping skaters reach their dreams. As a coach I want to continue challenging myself to be a better coach by always learning and continuing my skating education. I want to develop athletes into successful athletes in skating and in life. I am a head coach for skaters as well as a support/assistant coach for skaters that have a different head coach. I believe it takes a team to be behind an athlete's success.
Fun Fact:
On November 17, 2007, my pair partner Derek and I landed the first Throw Quadruple Salchow jump in International Competition (ISU Event). We made history by officially becoming the first team to land the throw in International Competition.
Number of Years Coaching: 10+ years
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member – San Diego Figure Skating Club
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
Coaching Credentials:
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
PSA Rating/Ranking:
- Certified Group
- Registered Synchronized Skating
Number of Years Coaching: 6+ years
Disciplines/Specialties: Competitive coaching, Basic Skills, Freestyle, Skating Skills (formerly known as Moves in the Field Skating)
Competitive Background:
- Senior Ladies Northeastern Regional Competitor
- US Figure Skating Double Gold Medalist - Freestyle and Moves in the Field
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member
- ISI Member
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
- Clinical/Counseling Sports Psychology Association Member
Coaching Credentials:
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
Formal Education:
- Licensed Clinical & Sports Psychologist- California and Massachusetts
- Doctorate in Clinical Psychology - William James College, Massachusetts
- Masters of Arts in Professional Psychology - William James College, Massachusetts
- BA in Psychology- Hobart and William Smith, New York
- Pilates Instructor Training- Boston Body Pilates, Massachusetts
Coaching Philosophy:
Figure skating has been a lifelong love of mine, and as a coach, I take an athlete-centered approach that helps skaters grow into confident, resilient individuals. As a licensed sports psychologist, I combine technical skating expertise with mental skills training to support both performance and personal growth. With competitive athletes, I focus on jump mechanics, rotation, and spin quality, while also helping them manage pressure and skate with focus when it matters most. For younger and recreational skaters, I foster a supportive, curious environment where progress is celebrated, risks are encouraged, and learning is fun. Above all, I see the rink as more than a place to train — it’s a space to build resilience, self-awareness, and confidence, so every skater leaves the ice feeling stronger, proud, and more connected to their own potential.
Fun Fact:
I’m a sports psychologist and love working with all types of athletes!
https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1294452
Email: agchirban@gmail.com
Disciplines/ Specialties:
Competitive coaching; Foundational jump technique; Spin technique; Choreography; Skating Skills (Moves in the Field)
Skating/Competitive Background:
- US Figure Skating Gold Medalist
- US Figure Skating Double Silver Medalist - Moves in the Field, Figures, Freestyle
- Competitive skater in the Southwest Region at Junior Ladies – 8 years
- Principal skater and Star of Ice Capades, Disney on Ice, Holiday on Ice, Sea World, and American Super Dream in Japan
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
Coaching Credentials
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
Formal Education:
- Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology – California State University, San Bernadino
- Master Certified in Sport Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology – California State University, San Bernadino
Coaching Philosophy:
I coach skaters to learn how to be resilient, hardworking, and optimistic all while finding a love for the ice and skating. I focus on strong foundational skating technique and learning life lessons that skaters will use later in college, their careers and beyond!
Fun Fact:
Creator of Mentally Tough Skaters program, coaching individual and team skaters in focus/activation control, flow and peak performance strategies. https://mentallytoughedge.com/
Number of Years Coaching: 10+ years
Disciplines/ Specialties:
Competitive coaching; Jump technique; Pairs/lift technique; Off-Ice Conditioning; Power Skating; Hockey Power Skating
Skating/Competitive Background:
- US Figure Skating Sectionals Silver Medalist – Novice Pairs, 2010
- US Figure Skating National Competitor – Novice Pairs, 2010
- US Figure Skating Gold Medalist
- Trained in pairs with internationally-renowned coaches Peter Oppegard, Karen Kwan, and Naomi Nari Nam.
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member – San Diego Figure Skating Club
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
Coaching Credentials:
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
PSA Rating/Ranking:
- Registered Moves in the Field
Formal Education:
- Personal trainer, Youth fitness specialist - American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - 2013
Coaching Philosophy:
I enjoy working with competitive skaters of all levels on and off the ice. His passion is studying and applying the physics of jumps, spins and lifts to enhance the skaters’ performance.
Fun Fact:
I was a member of the international selection pool for Team USA.
Email: jschumann90@gmail.com
Number of Years Coaching: 1+ years
Disciplines/ Specialties:
Basic Skills; Synchronized Skating; Skating Skills; Freestyle
Skating/Competitive Background:
- Excel National Silver Medalist – Senior, 2022
- National competitor with Team del Sol (synchronized skating)
- 15+ years of competitive skating
- US Figure Skating Gold Medalist – Moves in the Field
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
Coaching Credentials
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
Coaching Philosophy:
My goal as a coach is to help develop a deep love for skating in all my athletes. My philosophy involves creating an environment that encourages passion and enthusiasm.
Fun Fact:
I like to celebrate Christmas all year round!
Number of Years Coaching: 16+ years
Disciplines / Specialties:
- Basic skills, Singles Skating, Skating Skills, Figures
- Previous students have ranged in age from age 3-67
Skating Background:
- USFS Double Gold Test Medalist - Free Skating and Figures
- USFS Adult Gold Moves In the Field Medalist with Honors
- Coached by Olympic & National level coaches
- Skated professionally with Disney on Ice
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member – San Diego Figure Skating Club
- Learn to Skate USA Instructor Member
- US Institute of Theatre Technology - Professional member
Coaching Credentials:
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
- Red Cross First Aid, CPR, AED Certified
PSA Rating/Ranking:
- Basic Accreditation
- Registered Group
- Registered Rating in Moves in the Field
Formal Education:
- Clothing Construction, Patternmaking, and Draping with a focus on stretch fabrics - San Diego Mesa College (currently attending)
- MA in Theatre, Emphasis on Design and Dramaturgy – San Diego State University
- BA in International Relations, Emphasis on East Asia – University of Minnesota
Coaching Philosophy:
Some of the most influential people in my life have been the skating coaches I trained with, and I understand the importance of being a positive role model for my students. I am committed to helping my students set and reach their goals, whether they see skating as recreational or competitive activity. My intention is to instill in people a love of movement, fitness, and performance through the sport and art of figure skating.
www.linkedin.com/in/kristinekerr
Not currently taking private students
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
Coaching Credentials
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
Email: rincrat@gmail.com
Number of Years Coaching: 18+ years
Disciplines/ Specialties:
Competitive coach; Skater development; Basic Skills; Skating Skills (Moves in the Field)
Skating/Competitive Background:
Collegiate national competitor
Professional Affiliations:
- US Figure Skating Association Member – All Year Figure Skating Club
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
Coaching Credentials:
- US Figure Skating Coaches CORE Certification
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
PSA Rating/Ranking:
- Certified Group
- Register Moves in the Field
- Registered Free Skating
- Basic Accreditation
Formal Education:
California Teaching Credential – California State University, San Marcos
- Concentrations: general education; mild/moderate
Paralegal Certificate – UC San Diego
Bachelor of Arts in Pychology/Law & Society – UC Riverside
Bachelor of Science in Health & Exercise Science – University of Delaware
- Concentration in Figure Skating
Classically trained in ballet
Email: ashleym424@gmail.com
Learn to Skate Instructors
Number of Years Coaching: 5+ years
Disciplines/ Specialties:
Basic Skills; Skaters with Special Needs
Skating/Competitive Background:
- US Figure Skating, Pre-Juvenile - Moves in the Field
- 20+ years of skating experience
- Theatrical show skating
- Competitive skating
- Coached by Dawn Piepenbrink McCosh and Karen Pasco
Professional Affiliations:
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Member
- Coaching Certifications:
- Learn-to-Skate USA Instructor Certification
- US SafeSport Trained & Certified
- Mandated Reporter Trained & Certified
Formal Education:
- Classical Russian ballet training – 10 years
- Jazz, hip hop, tap, lyrical – 5 years
More About Me:
I have two years of experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum, which roughly translates to emotion coaching. This is valuable in the skating world because so much of being a coach is being the student's cheerleader. I am continuing to pursue my USFS skating tests and currently focusing on absorbing as much knowledge as possible through teaching the Learn-to-Skate curriculum; moving up in my own certifications before taking on private students.
