Ice Academy of Montreal: A Global Hub for Olympic Figure Skaters
The Ice Academy of Montreal (I.AM) has solidified its reputation as a premier training ground for Olympic figure skaters. Situated in Montreal, the academy is currently home to 13 out of the 23 teams competing in the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. This elite institution has proven to be a breeding ground for champions, with previous Olympic winners trained here, including Tessa Virtue, Scott Moir, and Guillaume Cizeron.
The Elite Training Environment at I.AM
Founded by Patrice Lauzon and his wife, Marie-France Dubreuil, along with French coach Romain Haguenauer, I.AM promotes a unique training philosophy. The academy encourages competition among its skaters while fostering camaraderie. This balance helps athletes push their limits and develop distinctive styles.
- Current Teams: Madison Chock and Evan Bates (USA), Guillaume Cizeron and Laurence Fournier Beaudry (France).
- Notable Achievements: Two consecutive Olympic ice dance champions (2018, 2022) and nine of the last ten world champions.
- Training Model: Skaters collaborate with multiple coaches, choreographers, and dance specialists.
Innovative Coaching and Personal Growth
The training approach at I.AM emphasizes individual artistic development. Coaches guide each team to discover their unique identity in skating. “We aim to cultivate each athlete’s personal growth,” Lauzon stated. Coaches rotate among groups based on the skaters’ evolving needs.
Such an environment is not suitable for everyone, as pointed out by Lauzon. However, those who thrive here often form strong friendships despite competing against one another.
Historical Context and Future Aspirations
Lauzon and Dubreuil were both top-tier ice dancers who faced considerable struggles early in their careers. Before establishing I.AM, they sought funding and support during challenging times. Their breakthrough moment came after receiving backing from Skate Canada, enabling them to train more effectively.
Eventually, they envisioned a training center that would elevate Canadian figure skating. This dream resulted in the formation of I.AM, which has consistently gained recognition for its innovative approach.
- First Olympic champions produced: Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir (2018).
- Ice Academy Rebranding: Renamed to I.AM in 2019.
- Recent success: Seven out of ten top ice dance teams in 2025 linked to I.AM.
Conclusion
Looking ahead to the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, expectations are high for the athletes trained at the Ice Academy of Montreal. As they prepare for the rhythm dance event, the legacy of excellence and innovation continues to shape the future of figure skating.
