Coaching photo by Melanie Heaney

The U.S. Figure Skating Solo Dance Subcommittee is proud to announce the creation of the Sasha Kirsanov Trophy, to be awarded annually to the winner of the Junior Combined Dance event at the U.S. National Solo Dance Final.

The inaugural presentation will take place at the 2025 Final, held in Salt Lake City from September 11–14. This “take-home” trophy will honor the life and legacy of Sasha Kirsanov, a cherished member of our skating community whose sudden passing on American Airlines Flight 5342 on January 29th left a huge hole in the hearts of many.

A former competitive ice dancer who represented the United States, Azerbaijan, and Russia, Sasha transitioned into coaching and choreography after retiring in 2004. Based in the Newark, Delaware area, he was a huge influence on the Solo Dance Program, embracing it wholeheartedly from its earliest days. 

Sasha’s influence and passion touched countless skaters, officials, and fellow coaches. He is survived by his wife, Natalya Gudin—also a coach—and their daughter, Nicole, a gifted solo dancer and multi-time national medalist.

The Sasha Kirsanov Trophy is a tribute to his brilliance, warmth, and enduring impact on the sport. As we gather in Salt Lake City this September, not only will the achievements of the nation’s top solo dancers be celebrated, but also the remarkable life of a man who helped shape the path for so many.