For Rylen Lukanin and Patrick O’Brien, success has never been about a single moment — it’s been about years of trust, dedication, and growing together as a team.

Skating together for more than a decade, Rylen and Patrick have evolved into one of the country’s most promising ice dance teams. Their journey reflects what’s possible when talent is nurtured by strong programs, committed coaching, and a community that believes in long-term development.

Where Their Story Began

Rylen and Patrick’s path to national success began at Montclair State University Ice Arena, where both skaters first stepped onto the ice through the Learn to Skate program. It was here that they learned the fundamentals, discovered their passion for skating, and began forming the partnership that would shape their future. From those early sessions, the arena became more than a training space — it became the foundation of their growth as athletes and teammates.

Building Champions Through Coaching and Community

As their skills developed, Rylen and Patrick continued training under the guidance of a dedicated coaching community. One of their early coaches, Montclair State Arena Figure Skating Director, Deana Sroka, played an important role in laying the groundwork for their technical development and competitive confidence.

They later advanced their training with Krigor Studio, refining their technique, artistry, and performance quality. Each stage of their journey built on the last — proof that championships are earned through consistency, patience, and teamwork.

A Season of Champions Moment

All of that work culminated in a defining achievement when Rylen and Patrick recently captured the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating National Championship in ice dance — a milestone that perfectly embodies Montclair’s Season of Champions. Their success is a reflection not only of their talent, but of the environment that supported them from the very beginning: accessible programs, expert coaching, and a community that celebrates effort as much as excellence.

Celebrating Champions at the Montclair Winter Games

As part of our Season of Champions, Rylen and Patrick will return to the ice where their journey began to perform at the Montclair Winter Games: Celebration of Champions on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

The Montclair Winter Games run from 10AM to 12PM and are designed as a joyful, Olympic-inspired celebration for skaters and families of all ages and abilities.

During the event, attendees will enjoy:

• Future Champions: Try Skating for Free (registration required) — a welcoming introduction for first-time skaters
• Exhibition of Champions — featuring inspiring performances by advanced skaters, including Rylen and Patrick
• Free Public Skate + Meet & Greet — skate alongside exhibition athletes and celebrate together on the ice

Their presence at the Winter Games is more than a performance — it’s a full-circle moment that highlights what Montclair is all about: building confidence, nurturing creativity, and celebrating the champion within every skater.

A Legacy That Inspires the Next Generation

From Learn to Skate classes at Montclair to standing atop the national podium, Rylen and Patrick’s story is a powerful reminder of how community rinks help shape elite athletes. Montclair State University Ice Arena is proud to be where their journey began — and proud to celebrate them as part of a season dedicated to champions, growth, and community.

Celebrate community. Celebrate confidence. Celebrate champions.