Nani Tanaka

• Specialty: Freestyle in singles & pairs
  

• Club: Carousel sherwood fsc

Nani began skating at the age of 5 in Honolulu, Hawaii. Throughout her competitive career, she had the opportunity to train at Ice Castle International Training Center in Lake Arrowhead, California under Irina Rodnina and Glyn Jones. Such experiences training alongside world-class athletes, including Michele Kwan, have shaped her understanding of true determination and dedication.

While earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Hawaii, she became the 1998 National Collegiate bronze medalist. She eventually relocated to Portland, Oregon in 2002 and has been instrumental in bringing competitive success to the Pacific Northwest. Her mission as a coach is to pass on her love and knowledge of figure skating to future generations. She enjoys working with skaters of all ages, skill levels and abilities. Upholding a growth mindset, she encourages her students to overcome challenges with discipline and humility.

Since 2019, Nani has served on the U.S. Figure Skating Ethics Committee to interpret, administer, and apply the USFS Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct. This committee works closely with the Professional Skaters Association in assessing cases of behavior that violate the Code of Ethics and Tenets of Professionalism within our sport’s coaching community. As a board member of the Carousel Sherwood Figure Skating Club, she strives to build and maintain a supportive community around her athletes. Her ultimate goal is to help skaters fulfill their highest potential on the ice while leading balanced lives. Nani has more than 20 years experience coaching regional, sectional, national, and international medalists.