Meet the KNPS Team

Meet Kurt Nichols

Kurt got his start as a competitive figure skater training 5 to 6 hours a day, six days a week and would enjoy playing hockey in his free time. After graduating from Clarkson University, Kurt found himself in a rink working part time as a figure skating instructor and power skating coach for hockey players in NYC and the surrounding area. He created Kurt Nichols Power Skating in the early 2000s and quickly developed a following ranging from the Northeast to Michigan and as south as Texas.

Over the course of his 20 years as a coach, Kurt has developed a unique curriculum that combines the fluidity, balance and efficiency of figure skating with the speed and power of hockey. His firm but intense coaching style draws from a deep well of knowledge and experience and tailors each session to his individual player’s needs.

Kurt has served as the power skating coach for players and organisations in the NHL, AHL, NWHL, ECHL, College and Prep Schools as well as multiple youth programs including AAA and House organisations where he is always excited to share his knowledge and mastery of skating with others.

Thinking of going Full Throttle and having Kurt help take your game to the next level? Check out our clinics/programs.

Meet Michele Nichols

Michele was a seasoned and nationally ranked freestyle figure skater who honed her skills under the expert guidance of the legendary 1960 Olympic Champion, Carol Heiss Jenkins, and the esteemed British National Ice Dance Champion, Glynn Watts. With a training background steeped in the era of school figures, Michele has cultivated a unique expertise in edge work and forward/backward stride, setting her apart as a specialist in these areas. With over two decades of experience in teaching, Michele has earned the reputation as the slideboard guru at Kurt Nichols Power Skating, a testament to her commitment to helping every player achieve their utmost potential. Her coaching journey has seen her work with players of all levels and abilities, from house league to NHL, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the sport. Michele's training mantra, "Train Today, Imagine Tomorrow," encapsulates her philosophy of fostering growth and envisioning success in every athlete she coaches.