St. Mike’s Student Skates for Canada at Olympics

Stephen Gogolev, a student at the University of St. Michael’s College, is set to represent Canada in men’s figure skating at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy. This season has marked a pivotal point in his career, which he describes as the busiest and most exciting yet.

Path to the Olympics

Gogolev earned his spot on Team Canada by winning the national championship at the Canadian National Skating Championships, held in Gatineau, Quebec, on January 10. Although he was thrilled by the announcement, he felt a sense of expectation based on his performance at nationals.

A Long-Awaited Goal

Competing at the Olympics has always been a dream for Gogolev. He articulates, “It’s probably the biggest stage that you work towards, and it means a lot to high-performing athletes.”

Balancing Academics and Athletics

Gogolev is pursuing a degree in political science after transferring to the University of Toronto in 2024 from the University of California. His decision to return was influenced by family and the need for better support during his training.

Although his training schedule is rigorous, Gogolev prioritizes his education. He acknowledges the support he receives from faculty. “Teaching assistants and instructors have been quite supportive, helping me stay on track,” he stated.

Preparing for Competition

He departed for Italy on February 2. In Milano Cortina, he will participate in both the individual men’s short and free skating programs. Additionally, he will compete with Canada’s skating team, leading to an intense schedule of four competitions in just seven days.

Looking Forward

Gogolev is not only eager for the competition but also for the overall experience in Italy. He looks forward to exploring the city, enjoying local cuisine, and bonding with teammates.

• Competition Dates: February 10 at 12:30 p.m.
• Other Canadian Participants:
  • Daniel Mantenuto – Men’s Hockey (Italy)
  • Damien Riat – Men’s Hockey (Switzerland)

Aside from skating, Gogolev is contemplating his future. He believes pursuing higher education is crucial, considering his eventual transition away from competitive skating. “I won’t be skating my entire life,” he concludes. “It’s important to think about what comes next.”

The St. Mike’s community is showing strong support for Gogolev, hosting a watch party in the COOP to cheer him on during his Olympic journey.