Making History on Home Ice: The First Coast Classic Becomes Florida’s First-Ever NQS Event

The countdown is on, and figure skating history is about to be made right here in the Sunshine State! Hosted by the First Coast Figure Skating Club, the 4th Annual First Coast Classic (August 6th – 9th, 2026) marks a landmark milestone: it is proudly the first-ever U.S. Figure Skating National Qualifying Series (NQS) event in Florida.

For years, Florida’s dedicated skaters have traveled across the country to earn their official qualifying scores toward the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Now, the national spotlight shines on Jacksonville, bringing elite competition, top-tier judges, and high-stakes energy straight to our home ice.

What Makes This Year Historic?

The National Qualifying Series (NQS) is a nation-wide series of official competitions where singles, pairs, and ice dance athletes earn scores that count toward sectionals and national advancement. Being selected as an NQS host host venue cements First Coast FSC and Jacksonville as major destinations in American figure skating.

Hosted at the state-of-the-art Community First Igloo (3605 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL), the four-day event features:

• NQS Qualifying Events: Bringing together top athletes pursuing national advancement.
• Non-Qualifying Events: Welcoming skaters of all levels and ages to compete, perform, and hone their skills.
• A Festival of Florida Talent: Skaters from local clubs across Jacksonville, Miami, Naples, Tampa, and beyond hitting the ice together.

Wishing Florida Skaters Their Absolute Best!

To all the Florida athletes tying up their skates, stepping past the boards, and taking the ice—we are cheering you on with immense pride!

Months of early morning practices, endless jump drills, edges, spins, and choreography lead up to these four minutes on the ice. Whether you are aiming for a personal best, chasing an NQS score, or competing in your very first major event, remember that your hard work, passion, and resilience have brought you to this moment.

To our Florida athletes: Trust your training, fly high on your jumps, feel the music, and skate your hearts out! Florida is standing behind you every step of the way.