Welcome to the 2026 Last Chance for Solo Dance!
The Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association is excited to welcome you to Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan, August 13–16, 2026.
Please take a few minutes to review the information below to help make your competition weekend enjoyable and stress-free.
Start Orders and Results
Volunteer
Before You Leave Home
Before You Leave Home
Please make sure you have:
- Verified your competition schedule in EMS
- Uploaded your competition music to EMS
- Brought a backup copy of your music on your mobile device (and adapter if needed)
- Reserved your hotel
- Purchased your practice ice
- Planned to arrive at least one hour before your first event
- Packed a jacket or sweatshirt—the arena is cold!
Practice Ice
Practice Ice
Practice Ice registration is available through EMS.
Practice Ice Schedule
- Pre-Purchased Practice Ice Selection: Begins Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 9:00 AM (ET)
- Open Practice Ice Sales: Begin Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 9:00 AM (ET)
Practice sessions are 15 minutes each.
We encourage competitors to register early, as many sessions fill quickly.
Competition Schedule
Competition Schedule
The most current competition schedule is available through EMS.
Schedules are subject to change, so please check EMS regularly leading up to the event.
Competitors should arrive at the rink at least one hour before their scheduled event.
Live Scoring, Starting Orders & Results
Live Scoring, Starting Orders & Results
Follow the competition all weekend with live scoring, starting orders, and final results.
Official Live Results
https://ijs.usfigureskating.
Results become official only after certification by the Referee and Accounting Team.
Registration & Check-In
Registration & Check-In
Registration will open approximately one hour before the first official practice session on Thursday.
Each following day, registration opens approximately 30 minutes before the first event.
Please stop by Registration to:
- Pick up competitor credentials
- Pick up coach credentials
- Ask event-related questions
Awards
Awards
Awards will be presented as soon as possible following certification of each event and will be in the overlook area by the registration desk.
Please remain in costume if you finish in the Top 4 of your event.
Brandon Forsyth Award
We are honored to present the Brandon Forsyth Award to the Winner of the Senior Solo Combined Dance event.
This special award recognizes excellence, sportsmanship, dedication to the sport of figure skating, and Brandon’s lasting impact on the ice dance community.
Coaches
Coaches
Only coaches listed in EMS who meet current U.S. Figure Skating compliance requirements will receive credentials and be permitted rink side.
To help keep the coaching area safe and organized, we ask that only competitors currently skating in the event remain in the coaching area. Additional competitors should remain in the spectator seating.
Coaches Hospitality
Credentialed coaches are invited to enjoy complimentary hospitality throughout the competition, including coffee, beverages, snacks, and meals.
Music Reminder
Music Reminder
Please verify that your competition music has been successfully uploaded into EMS before arriving.
Every competitor must also have a backup copy of their music available rink side on a mobile device.
If your device requires a Lightning or USB-C adapter, please bring it with you.
Locker Rooms & Changing Areas
Locker Rooms & Changing Areas
Locker rooms and changing areas are reserved for athletes only and will be designated according to U.S. Figure Skating policy.
An exception is made for athletes under 11 years of age, allowing one same-sex parent or guardian to assist immediately before and after competition.
Please review the U.S. Figure Skating SkateSafe® Locker Room Policy prior to the event.
Competition Video & Photography
Competition Video & Photography
Complimentary Performance Video
Every competitor will receive a complimentary performance video, courtesy of 828 Studios, as our gift to all participants.
To comply with U.S. Figure Skating copyright regulations, the videos will not include music.
Instructions for downloading your complimentary performance video will be emailed shortly after the competition.
Live Stream
A live stream of the competition will be available throughout the weekend for family and friends unable to attend.
Viewing information will be shared prior to the event.
Professional Photography
Professional action photography will be provided by Melanie Heaney Photography.
Photos are available for purchase.
Competitors will receive information before the competition regarding pre-orders and post-event ordering.
Spectator Photography & Video Policy
To ensure a safe competition environment:
- Flash photography is strictly prohibited.
- Personal video recording is permitted only of your own skater for personal use.
- Recording is permitted only from the spectator seating.
- Only battery-powered devices are permitted.
- Tripods, monopods, electrical cords, and similar equipment are not permitted.
Thank you for helping us provide a safe environment for every competitor.
Official Event Merchandise
Official Event Merchandise
Official 2026 Last Chance for Solo Dance merchandise is available now through The Twizzle Press.
https://thetwizzlepress.com/
Please note that merchandise will not be available for purchase onsite.
Official Host Hotel
Official Host Hotel
We are pleased to partner with SpringHill Suites Kalamazoo Portage as the official host hotel.
Rooms are still available within our discounted group block.
Reserve Here:
https://app.marriott.com/
SpringHill Suites Kalamazoo Portage 850 Trade Centre Way Portage, MI 49002
Travel Tip
We recommend staying along the South Westnedge Avenue corridor, which offers the area’s best selection of restaurants, grocery stores, shopping, and other amenities.
Please note that no hotels are within walking distance of Wings Event Center, so transportation will be required even if staying on Sprinkle road.
Wings Event Center Information
Wings Event Center Information
Venue Address
Wings Event Center 3600 Vanrick Drive Kalamazoo, MI 49001
PLEASE ENTER THROUGH DOOR 12 (Registration will be directly inside this door)
Please review the Wings Event Center policies before arriving.
**PLEASE NOTE: Wings Event is a cashless facility. Concessions will be open, and accept card and tap to pay.**
Highlights include:
- Parking is available onsite
- Empty reusable water bottles are permitted.
- Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
Enjoy Kalamazoo
Enjoy Kalamazoo
While you’re here, be sure to enjoy everything Kalamazoo has to offer, including:
- Air Zoo Aerospace Museum
- Bell’s Brewery
- Kalamazoo Nature Center
- Downtown Kalamazoo
- Local restaurants and shopping
Weather
Weather
Mid-August in Kalamazoo typically features daytime temperatures in the low 80s with cooler evenings in the low 60s.
We recommend bringing:
- A light jacket or sweatshirt
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A reusable water bottle
- An umbrella, just in case of a passing summer shower
Stay Connected
Stay Connected
Website: www.skatekalamazoo.org
Social Media: Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association
Follow us throughout the weekend for announcements, photos, and event updates.
Thank You
Thank You
Thank you for choosing to compete at the 2026 Last Chance for Solo Dance.
Our volunteers have worked incredibly hard to create a memorable experience for every athlete and family. We hope you enjoy your time in Kalamazoo, make lasting memories, and skate your very best.
Safe travels—we can’t wait to welcome you to Wings Event Center! We will see you on the ice!
Warm regards,
Kelly Felton
Competition Chair – 2026 Last Chance for Solo Dance Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association