From Olympic Dreams to Local Ice in Mequon, Wisconsin

The Winter Games Sparked a Skating Surge

Local Ice in Mequon, Wisconsin

The spotlight of the Winter Olympics may have dimmed, but in Mequon, Wisconsin, its glow continues to shine brightly—reflected in the blades carving across the ice at Ozaukee Ice Center.

Every Olympic cycle brings a wave of excitement to local rinks, but this year feels different. Bigger. Louder. More alive. At the heart of it all is a renewed passion for ice sports that is drawing in people of all ages, from wide-eyed toddlers stepping onto the ice for the first time to adults rediscovering the thrill of the game.

Chris Donovan, General Manager of the Ozaukee Ice Center, has seen this pattern before—but never quite like this.

“We always see a boost around Olympic time. This year, even a bigger boost because of how good the Olympics were for all ice sports,” Donovan said. “Once people get on the ice, they love it.”

That love is evident the moment you walk into the facility. With two NHL-sized ice sheets—making it one of the largest venues in the area aside from the Pettit National Ice Center—the rink is buzzing with activity. On weekends, empty ice is nearly impossible to find. The energy is contagious, fueled by inspiration from Olympic standouts like Alysa Liu, Jack Hughes, and Megan Keller.

Programs at the center span every level and interest: hockey leagues, figure skating clubs, and learn-to-skate classes that are already filled. The demand speaks volumes—not just about the Olympics, but about the universal appeal of stepping onto the ice and trying something new.

But perhaps the most powerful stories come from those who never expected to lace up skates.

Elissa Elser of Thiensville is one such example. What started as a family connection turned into a personal passion.

“My husband and my two daughters play, so I thought if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em,” Elser said.

Her journey reflects a broader trend—more adults, especially women, are embracing the sport, not just as spectators, but as participants. Weekly pick-up games and grassroots efforts are helping grow the community from within.

One unforgettable Olympic moment helped spark that fire even further.

“We all watched it together, and there were high-fives and screaming,” Elser said.

That shared excitement didn’t fade when the Games ended. Instead, it transformed into action. Elser and her fellow players now volunteer their time to run women’s hockey clinics—sessions that fill up almost as quickly as they’re announced.

Robin Bilsborough, a Canadian native turned local advocate, sees the enthusiasm firsthand.

Ozaukee Ice Center Live barn walk through

“As soon as you see it and want to be involved, we’ve got a spot for you to be involved,” Bilsborough said.

This sense of openness and community is what makes the post-Olympic surge so meaningful. It’s not just about increased numbers—it’s about connection, opportunity, and the courage to try something new.

From first glides to competitive dreams, the ripple effect of the Olympics is transforming local ice into a stage for everyday heroes.

What’s happening in Mequon is a reminder that the Olympics are more than a global spectacle—they are a catalyst. They inspire action, break down barriers, and invite people of all backgrounds to participate. When communities embrace that momentum, the result isn’t just a temporary spike in interest—it’s lasting growth, stronger connections, and a deeper love for sport that extends far beyond the closing ceremony.

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