As the University of Stirling continues to expand its sporting offering, a new club is preparing to take to the ice.
Brig spoke to Ice Skating Club president Georgia Hillman about the launch of the club and what students can expect if they decide to lace up their skates.
Hillman has played a key role in bringing the club to life, helping to organise the early stages of its development and communicate with the university.
As well as helping to organise logistics, Hillman has also been involved in developing the club’s financial plans, organising equipment and planning social events for future members.
The idea for the club grew from Hillman’s own long-standing involvement in the sport. Having skated since childhood, she was surprised to discover that a university known for its strong sporting culture did not already have an ice skating club.
“I’ve been skating since I was around seven and stopped in 2019 after qualifying for the British Championships during Covid,” she said.
Skating has always been part of my life, and for a sports university, I was upset that there wasn’t already an ice skating club.”
After hearing that other students were also interested in starting a club, Hillman got involved in the process and began working alongside them to make the idea a reality.
What is the Ice Skating Club?
The University of Stirling Ice Skating Club aims to offer sessions for students of all abilities, from complete beginners to more experienced skaters.
“We hope to have two sessions a week,” Hillman said. “A public one for our beginner skaters and a more proficient one for our advanced skaters who want to try tricks. The club will be inclusive to anyone at any level.”
Sessions will take place at The Peak in Stirling, with members travelling together from campus. Hillman also noted that the journey to the rink offers an opportunity for members to socialise before even stepping onto the ice.
“It’s about a 15-minute bus journey into Stirling and then around a 20-minute walk to The Peak,” she said. “It gives people a chance to socialise before even getting to the rink.”
Why Should You Join the Ice Skating Club?
For Hillman, building a welcoming and supportive environment is central to the club’s identity.
“We want to create a safe atmosphere where no matter who you are or what level you are, you are welcome and supported through your skating journey,” she said.
Sport should be fun and about wanting to go and see your friends, and that’s what we are trying to achieve.”
Accessibility is also a key focus for the club, with beginner sessions designed to help new skaters feel comfortable on the ice.
“We are open to all levels,” Hillman added. “The public sessions are specifically for our beginners so they can learn and build confidence. Everyone starts somewhere.”
For students unsure about trying something new, Hillman believes ice skating offers both social and personal benefits.
“It’s a great way to meet new people and try something different, or continue doing something you already enjoy,” she said.
Skating can also really help your mental health – it takes your mind away from your academics because you have to focus on what you’re doing, and it gives you a chance to socialise and have fun.”
With its first members preparing to hit the ice, the University of Stirling Ice Skating Club hopes to become another exciting addition to the university’s sporting community.
Check out the club here on Instagram
Featured Image Credit: @stiruni_iceskating on Instagram
2nd year journalism and sport student at the University of Stirling, with a particular interest in music and sports. Sport editor for Brig Newspaper.
