Ice sports athletes address lack of rinks in San Mateo County with fundraiser

“Due to zoning and housing pressures, we’ve lost a lot of rinks,” Sarah Feldman, CEO and founder of Silicon Valley Ice Skating Association, said. “We absolutely need more housing, but we also need more thoughtful planning that includes both recreation and housing.”

That’s in part the motivation behind Silicon Valley Ice Skating Association’s Gala in the Stars event, an annual benefit meant to raise funds and access for all ice sports, Feldman added. The event hasn’t been held since prior to the pandemic, which is likely to demonstrate much of the demand that has been building over the years. Around 50 ice skaters will partake in about a dozen performances on Friday, Dec. 20, at the San Mateo on Ice outdoor rink in Central Park.

One of the performers includes Alysa Liu, a 2022 Olympian and World Bronze medalist. A silent auction will also feature items from Bay Area native Kristi Yamaguchi, a 1992 Olympic gold medalist.

“The event is in support of raising awareness that all ice sports need more access to skating rinks, so that way we can facilitate future programming,” Feldman said. 

SVISA has also adapted by partnering with the region’s economic juggernaut — technology — as a way to raise funds. The association also hosts a Robotics on Ice event each year, which partners with local high school programs to hold a competition on how well students’ robotics can hold up on ice. 

Even though full-time rinks are fewer, Feldman said seasonal rinks are still popping up and are as popular as ever, highlighting the demand and overall interest. Unfortunately, the seasonal presence does not suffice for elite skaters, meaning many are leaving the area. 

“Skating is moving to land-affordable areas, so I hope that for full-time rinks, we can keep them in city centers,” Feldman said. “The Bay Area has a huge history of ice sports, and I hope community leaders can do something to support this, so we don’t lose this piece of history.”