Our academy

At Nordic Skating Academy, we offer more than just training — we offer a full lifestyle experience for aspiring champions. Our academy is built around a clear vision: to create the most comprehensive, professional, and inspiring environment for figure skaters in Europe.

From August to May, athletes live, train, and grow together in a structured and supportive setting. Every detail — from world-class coaching and modern facilities to balanced nutrition, recovery care, and emotional wellbeing — is designed to maximize progress and performance. With a fully planned competitive season, individualized training, and a small, focused group, athletes can concentrate on what truly matters: becoming the best version of themselves — on and off the ice.

The strength of our academy lies not only in our all-inclusive approach, but also in our people. Under the guidance of legendary coach Marina Shirshova and world-renowned choreographer Adam Solya, each skater is supported in both technical development and artistic expression. Nordic Skating Academy is where talent meets opportunity, and passion meets structure.

About Us
Let Us introduce ourselves.
  • Adam Solya
    Choreographer
    I have spent many years in the world of figure skating, first as a single skater and later as an ice dancer, participating in numerous national and international competitions. Alongside my athletic pursuits, I developed a deep passion for dance, leading me to pursue formal training at the Hungarian Dance Academy, where I earned my first diploma in classical ballet and modern dance. Additionally, I obtained a second diploma in health care pedagogy, further enriching my understanding of movement and physical education.

    My career has encompassed diverse experiences, including membership in modern ballet and contemporary dance companies, as well as performances in various musical productions as a professional dancer-actor.

    With over 15 years of choreographic experience, I have worked on national, international, and Olympic levels, nurturing the talents of athletes from 12 different countries and nationalities, including notable figures such as Loena Hendrickx (BEL), who achieved a gold medal at the European Championships in 2024.

    Currently serving as a docent at the Royal Conservatorium Brussels, I am deeply committed to fostering the artistic development of my students.

    As a figure skating choreographer, my primary focus is on preserving the individuality of each athlete while elevating their artistic identity to new heights.

    I am renowned for my adept integration of classical ballet, modern dance, and contemporary movements into my choreographies, and I also bring a dramatic flair to my work, drawing from my extensive acting background to enhances the interpretation of music and complements the skater's unique style on the ice.

    Continuously dedicated to professional growth to ensuring that my choreographic work remains innovative and artistically enriched.
  • Marina Shirshova
    Technical Coach
    I embarked on a dynamic career in single skating that spanned 15 years, during which I honed my skills and passion for the sport. Following the conclusion of my athletic journey, I pursued further education at the esteemed Lesgaft Academy of Physical Culture and Sports under the mentorship of Professor Mishin, culminating in the successful defense of my diploma.

    Transitioning from athlete to artist, I spent six fulfilling years as a performer in the Leningrad State Ice Ballet, where I continued to immerse myself in the world of figure skating.

    Since 1996, I have been privileged to serve as a figure skating coach in Finland, where I have had the honor of training 12 talented individuals who have gone on to represent the national teams of Finland. Their remarkable achievements include multiple championship titles in Finland and the Nordic countries across various categories since 2009, as well as notable successes in international competitions sanctioned by the International Skating Union (ISU).

    Over the years, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with numerous European clubs, lending my expertise to summer camps and national team training programs. My teaching philosophy revolves around fostering a harmonious training environment that prioritizes safety and progression, adhering to the principles of physics.
Location of the academy
Our address:
Kohonkankaantie 95, 55420 Imatra, Finland

Imatra is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty with 26.000 inhabitants in joyful South-East Finland with quality of life to offer.

Academy is located in a safe and beautiful area surrounded by Finnish nature.