Collegiate Champ Sets Example For What’s Possible
By Kama Stigall
In a remarkable display of talent and resilience, Kendall Erne clinched victory at the 2025 U.S. Collegiate Figure Skating Championships, demonstrating what determination can achieve. Throughout the competition, held in Flossmoor, Illinois, Erne showcased a level of performance that left spectators in awe.
Entering the arena as an incoming junior at Purdue University Global, 22-year-old Erne focused not on medals but on personal joy and artistic expression. “I was mainly focused on achieving new personal goals,” Erne stated, illuminating her positive mindset despite the intense competition she faced, including two-time champion Wren Warne-Jacobsen and 2022 junior titlist Clare Seo.
Her outstanding combined score of 170.35 placed her far ahead in the senior division, earning her a prestigious title and a $4,000 scholarship. “It took a long time for it to sink in that I had actually won,” Erne reflected, Channeling years of dedication into her performance was key for her triumphant result.
Kendall’s journey began at age 5 in Novi, Michigan, when she first became enamored with the sport after watching it on television. Despite the challenges, relocating to Indianapolis and ultimately training at Twin Rinks in Buffalo Grove proved transformative for her. “I absolutely love the atmosphere at Twin Rinks,” Kendall noted, praising her supportive coaching team.
Her coaches, including Tommy Steenberg, have seen her transition into a confident skater, facilitating an interactive approach to choreography. “Kendall finds her own voice,” Steenberg remarked, highlighting her artistic expression as a standout quality.
Breaking common stereotypes, Erne continued to improve her technique, learning complex jumps like the triple toe loop and Lutz after 16. “She gets better year after year,” Steenberg emphasized, debunking myths about peak performance ages.
As she gears up for the upcoming season, including the National Qualifying Series and being part of the International Selection Pool, Erne is excited about future possibilities while aspiring to coach and choreograph, passing on her love for skating.
Ultimately, Erne’s commitment extends beyond victories; it embodies qualities like hard work and resilience. Embracing challenges both on and off the ice, she values the lessons learned and remains a symbol of inspiration for future skaters.
As Steenberg aptly summarizes, “Kendall is hard working, respectful, and everything you would hope for in a collegiate champion.”
