The PSM Skating Academy is built on experienced coaching, individualized development, and a passion for helping skaters grow both on and off the ice. In this edition of our Coach Spotlight Series, we’re proud to introduce Patty Gremaux, a highly experienced figure skating coach whose decades of teaching continue to shape confident, well-rounded athletes at PSM Icehouse.
Coach Spotlight: Patty Gremaux
Figure Skating Coach | PSM Skating Academy
With more than 34 years of coaching experience and a PSA Level III ranking, Patty has guided skaters from their very first steps on the ice through advanced competitive levels — always with a focus on strong fundamentals, consistency, and personal growth.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Skater Development
At the PSM Skating Academy, Patty provides both group instruction and private lessons for skaters of all ages and abilities. Her coaching experience spans beginner skaters through U.S. Figure Skating Senior Free Skate, Senior Moves in the Field, and Ice Sports Industry (ISI) Level 10, along with athletes who have earned medals at Regional, Sectional, and Junior National events.
Despite decades in the sport, her motivation remains simple.
“The skaters are what keep me passionate,” Patty says. “I love seeing them grow — not only as skaters, but as people.”
For Patty, skating is more than athletic development. It builds independence, confidence, and resilience — qualities that carry far beyond the rink.
Building Skills That Last at Every Level
Whether working with beginners or advanced competitors, Patty emphasizes a core set of foundational skills that support long-term success:
- Strong balance and posture
- Deep knee bend and edge control
- Comfort skating in both directions
- Equal strength on both sides of the body
As skaters develop mastery of these basics, she gradually introduces more complex skills and challenges tailored to each athlete’s readiness.
“When skaters understand how their body works on the ice, that’s when real progress begins,” she explains.
This progressive approach ensures athletes develop safely while building confidence alongside technical ability.
Why Consistency Matters in Figure Skating
One of the most important lessons Patty shares with families is that figure skating is not a seasonal sport. Unlike traditional school athletics, skating development requires year-round consistency to maintain and improve skills.
“Without regular practice and lessons, skaters struggle not only to learn new skills but to keep the ones they already have,” she says.
Training frequency varies based on each skater’s goals and availability, but consistent ice time remains the key to long-term improvement.
Fundamentals Every Skater Must Master
Regardless of age or level, Patty believes every skater should develop strong awareness of balance and body alignment.
Her core fundamentals include:
- Confidence skating on one foot (both left and right)
- Understanding personal balance and body axis
- Learning how body movements affect stability
- Becoming comfortable with falling as part of learning
“Progress requires trying new things,” Patty explains. “Falling is part of growth — and learning how to recover builds confidence.”
A Coaching Philosophy Built on Partnership
Patty approaches coaching as a collaboration between coach and athlete. Each skater brings unique goals, personality traits, and motivations, and she adapts her instruction to match those individual needs.
“I believe success comes from working together,” she says. “We combine the skater’s goals and commitment with my experience to create a path forward.”
While competitive milestones are rewarding, Patty finds the greatest fulfillment in long-term relationships with her students and watching skating shape their personal development.
Supporting Skaters at Every Stage at PSM Icehouse
Patty values the inclusive environment created by the PSM Skating Academy, where opportunities exist for skaters of every age and ability level.
“I love that no one feels excluded here,” she says. “There are programs for beginners, competitive skaters, and even adults who want to learn.”
From Learn to Skate USA classes through advanced training pathways, the academy provides structured progression while maintaining a welcoming community atmosphere.
Advice for Families Considering Skating
When families express interest in skating, Patty keeps her message simple:
“We love teaching people how to skate. No matter your age or level, there’s a place for you here.”
Her goal is to help every skater discover confidence, independence, and enjoyment through the sport — whether they pursue competition or simply skate for personal growth.
Coaching Experience & Achievements
- 34+ Years Coaching Experience
- Coached skaters from Beginner through Senior FS & Senior MIF
- ISI Level 10 coaching experience
- Regional, Sectional & Junior National medalists coached
- North American Challenge Skate & USA Developmental Team Coach
To learn more about Patty and our other PSM Skating Academy coaches, click here. You can explore their backgrounds, see what they offer, and reach out with any questions.