Figure skating coach Natalie Falsgraf, originally from the United States, has been deeply involved with Ladakh since 2018. She is actively supporting local talent during the Khelo India Winter Games 2026, where figure skating is being featured for the first time. Falsgraf, a former senior-level skater, is dedicated to nurturing young skaters in Ladakh without any financial incentives.
Falsgraf, a key member of the Ladakh Women’s Ice Hockey Foundation, is known for her passion and commitment to the Ladakhi ice skating community. She expressed her initial fascination with India’s figure skating scene and the unique ice skating culture in Ladakh. The natural ice rinks and the strong hockey culture in the region captured her interest and led her to contribute to the local skating community.
At the ongoing Khelo India Winter Games 2026, Falsgraf has been actively involved in coaching and promoting figure skating. She has been instrumental in explaining the intricacies of figure skating to the audience, emphasizing the differences between novice and advanced skaters. Falsgraf highlighted the importance of the Games in promoting figure skating awareness and providing a platform for young skaters in India.
Falsgraf’s dedication has already borne fruit, with two of her students, Stanzin Khando and Tenzin Kunzin from Zanskar, achieving success in the novice category at the Games. She also praised the development of ice sports infrastructure in India, particularly the artificial ice rink in Leh. Falsgraf sees the growth of such facilities as crucial for the advancement of figure skating in the country and its international presence.
