The South African Figure Skating Association (SAFSA) is proud to spotlight the outstanding contributions of Lisa Stigant, South Africa’s only ISU Technical Specialist, whose continued dedication has become an essential part of the country’s competitive figure skating landscape.
She has served as an international Technical Specialist since 2010 and was promoted to full ISU Technical Specialist status in 2022. Stigant represents South Africa at ISU-sanctioned competitions around the world, bringing international insight to every event she officiates. Currently based in the Netherlands, where she works as a coach for the TKV Club in Tilburg, Lisa’s relocation has enabled her to participate in and officiate at numerous international competitions, significantly expanding her experience and influence in the sport.
As the Head of the Technical Panel for SAFSA, Lisa is responsible for assembling all technical panels for Inter-Provincial events and the annual National Championships. Her leadership ensures that every competition in South Africa meets international standards. Beyond events, she plays a pivotal role in building capacity within SAFSA by training Technical Specialists in Singles and Pairs disciplines. She has spearheaded both online and in-person workshops with technical experts from Europe, laying the groundwork for consistent technical excellence at all levels of the sport.
Her impact goes even further. She continues to support the SAFSA National Development Team and was instrumental in bringing Italian coach Valter Rizzo to South Africa for an ice dance workshop. She is also behind the upcoming training camp with renowned coach Luca Demattè, showcasing her ongoing commitment to raising the standard of figure skating development in the country.
In addition to her role as a Technical Specialist, Lisa is a highly active international coach. She has coached and attended elite training camps and competitions across Europe, including the TKV Spring Training Camp with Jorik Hendricks and Marina Shirshova, Elite KNSB Camp with Manon Perron, and events such as Skate Celje, Victorie Cup, and the Challenge Cup. She also accompanied South African skater Rachael Rodd to Skate Celje in Slovenia in 2024, further affirming her dedication to South African athletes on the world stage.
Some of the highlights in Lisa’s ITU Technical Specialist schedule of the past season included the Coupe de Caroline (Belgium), Skate Celje (Slovenia), the Belgian National Championships, and the Spring on Ice International in the Netherlands.
“Lisa brings a rare combination of international credibility, technical precision, and development-minded leadership to SAFSA. Her contributions are invaluable,” says Christo Viljoen, President at SAFSA.
With her tireless work both locally and abroad, she continues to elevate South African figure skating, ensuring its athletes, officials, and events meet the highest global standards.
