Scholarships and Funds

Slavka Kohout Button, a dynamo of energy, artistry and innovation, left an indelible mark on the world of figure skating and beyond. As a competitor, Slavka soared to become a two-time Midwestern sectional senior ladies champion and a bronze medalist in the U.S. Junior Ladies Championships behind Tenley Albright. Notably, at just 13, she became the first person from Chicago to pass the gold figure test, a feat achieved by only a handful in the U.S. at the time. She dazzled audiences with her energetic and graceful performances across the United States and Canada, captivating hearts with her avant-garde style. Her other tests included: the CSFSA 7th Test, the Gold Dance Test and the Free Dance Test with Peter Dunfield.

Turning down a solo with the Ice Follies at 19, Slavka pursued coaching to fund her medical studies in college. Her coaching career skyrocketed, and she emerged not only as a legendary figure skating coach but also as an innovative and groundbreaking choreographer.

As a coach, she was a member of 6 World Teams and 2 Olympic Teams, a member of the US Figure Skating Hall of Fame, a member of the World Figure Sport Hall of Fame and a Member of the PSA Coaches Hall of Fame. However, her influence extended far beyond the rink, earning her recognition from the State of Connecticut for her over 70 year career as a coach and choreographer for multiple Olympians and world champions all while being a mentor and role model in the community. Slavka's impact on the sport and her community was immeasurable.

Slavka’s tenure of 17 years at the Wagon Wheel in Rockton, Illinois, saw her start and elevate the skating school into one of the world’s premier training centers, coaching luminaries like Janet Lynn (Olympic bronze medalist; 2 time World Champion Medalist and 5 time Senior Ladies US National Champion) as well also 3-time U.S. champion Gordon McKellen, Didier Gailhauget, and Kath Malmberg. In Slavka’s 70 years coaching she also worked with The Shibutanis and Shepherd Clark, and she spent periods of time working with Scott Hamilton, John Curry, Tai Babilonia and Randi Gardner, Karen Kadavy, Nicole Bobek, and the entire French Olympic team amongst others. A humble genius, Slavka elevated the entire sport and art of figure skating.

Slavka prided herself on coaching the "person" and not just the "skater." Her technique, driven by her artistic eye and profound musicality was supported by her ingenious understanding of body mechanics and flowing movement. Slavka believed in taking a multidisciplinary approach to teaching by incorporating ballet, theatre and a diverse musical education and it was important for her to teach her skaters to blend science and a correct understanding of anatomy with their artistry. Yet, beyond skating and choreography, Slavka imparted invaluable life lessons to her students, nurturing exceptional individuals alongside exceptional skaters.

All money raised for this scholarship will be used to advance Slavka’s philosophy, technique and artistry to help coaches with their professional growth and development as they seek to build and develop artists and athletes.

You may send a check made payable to the PS Foundation to:

Professional Skaters Foundation, c/o FMC Ice Sports, 100 Schoosett Street #3, Pembroke, MA 02359