Melanie Bolhuis

Background:

Melanie has been a member of the Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club since the age of 5. She enjoyed performing in 19 Melody On Ice performances, being a member and captain of the Hockettes and representing AAFSC at Regionals for many years. Melanie was very involved in music, becoming an accomplished violinist that significantly contributed to her artistry on ice. She spent her summers in Colorado training with Norma Sahlin coach of Charlie Tickner (World and Olympic medalist).

She attended college at Western Michigan University and began teaching at the Kalamazoo Figure Skating Club. After earning her degree in Physical Education with a minor in Coaching and Health, she returned to Ann Arbor and joined the staff of AAFSC. Married in 1989, she now has two daughters and, although family time is a priority, she is very committed to AAFSC and her students.

Experience:

Melanie has been a member of the Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club since the age of 5. She enjoyed performing in 19 Melody On Ice performances, being a member and captain of the Hockettes and representing AAFSC at Regionals for many years. Melanie was very involved in music, becoming an accomplished violinist that significantly contributed to her artistry on ice. She spent her summers in Colorado training with Norma Sahlin coach of Charlie Tickner (World and Olympic medalist).

Melanie has coached numerous students from basic skills through to their Gold figure, freestyle and dance tests. Along with her singles experience, she coached the lower precision team, the Arborettes for several years. Inspired by example, she attributes her hard work and success to her mother (Margaret Faulkner, an International Judge) and sister (Megan Faulkner, coach of Tara Lapinski) who continue to guide her. Melanie started coaching in 1977 and has had students medal at Regionals, Sectionals and Nationals. She has been a member of the Professional Skaters Association (PSA) since the early 80’s and is a rated and ranked level coach. Along with her education and experience as a mom, she incorporates a firm teaching approach that builds confidence and self-esteem in her students.