Former Olympian Surya Bonaly Joins Shattuck-St. Mary’s Figure Skating Coaching Staff

The three-time Olympian will join Head Coach and the Director of the Figure Skating Center of Excellence Peter Biver for 2024-25 school year, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the program through her time as a competitor and a coach.

“We are thrilled to announce that Surya will join our Shattuck-St. Mary’s community,” stated Michele Cornish, Athletic Director. “Surya’s passion for the sport and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our School’s values, and even more, her impressive career as an athlete and coach will bring valuable insights to our Figure Skating COE.”

With over 40 years in the figure skating world, Surya has truly left her mark on the sport. She is widely recognized for the “Bonaly backflip,” a move only she has performed which consists of a backflip with a full split in the air, landed on one blade. She was also the first female skater to attempt quadruple jumps (the salchow and toe loop) in ISU (International Skating Union) competition. 

In addition to her three Olympic appearances, Surya was also a 10-time French figure skating champion, a five-time European figure skating champion, and a three-time World Figure Skating silver medalist. 

"I’m beyond honored to join Shattuck-St. Mary's as a full-time skating coach for the 2024-25 season,” exclaimed Coach Bonaly. “I’m looking forward to sharing my Olympic, World, and professional skating experiences with the team and to bringing new perspectives and support to all the skaters."  

To learn more about the Shattuck-St. Mary’s Figure Skating Center of Excellence, please visit SSM Figure Skating. Skaters interested in joining the program can express their interest by filling out an inquiry form here.