TOBY PALMER

I am pleased to submit my application for membership of the Ice Dance Technical Advisory Committee.

Over the past 14 years, I have been actively involved in ice skating as both a competitive athlete and coach, giving me a broad and well-rounded understanding of the sport. As an athlete, I competed in both Solo Ice Dance and Couples Ice Dance, progressing from beginner through to senior level, competing at National Championships and represented Great Britain at international events. This journey has provided me with firsthand experience of the athlete pathway and a deep appreciation of the role that technical standards, officiating consistency, and athlete support play in the development and success of skaters.

For the past seven years, I have worked as an Ice Dance coach, supporting a diverse range of participants across the discipline. My coaching experience includes grassroots and beginner skaters taking their first steps into Ice Dance, competitive Solo Ice Dancers, adult athletes, and championship-level competitors. I have had the privilege of coaching athletes to success on the national stage, including a skater who achieved a medal at the British Solo Dance Championships. Working with athletes at all levels has enabled me to understand the varying challenges, aspirations, and support needs that exist throughout the skating community.

More recently, I have begun training as an Ice Dance Technical Specialist. This represents the next stage of my commitment to the sport and my desire to give back to a discipline that has played a significant role in my life. Through this training, I am continuing to develop my technical knowledge, while gaining a greater appreciation of the importance of consistency, accuracy, and education within officiating.

I believe my combination of competitive experience, coaching, and technical specialist development would allow me to make a valuable contribution to the Committee. Having progressed through the sport myself, I understand both the positive impact that effective structures, communication, and officiating can have on an athlete's experience, as well as the challenges that can arise when these areas fall short. This perspective motivates me to contribute towards a fair, transparent, and supportive environment that enables athletes, coaches, and officials to thrive.

As a member of the Ice Dance Technical Advisory Committee, I would seek to support the continued development of Ice Dance across all levels of British Ice Skating. I am passionate about promoting consistency in technical standards, supporting education and development opportunities for officials and coaches, and ensuring that the voices and experiences of athletes remain central to discussions about the future of the discipline.

I would be honoured to contribute my experience, enthusiasm, and commitment to the work of the Committee and to support the continued growth and success of Ice Dance within Great Britain.