What began as an experiment in 2022 has become a historic moment, with Milanѐ Gamberini and Philip Malan preparing to debut as South Africa’s first Basic Novice Pairs team on the international stage.
South Africa (04 February 2026) – South African figure skating is set for a historic moment when Milanѐ Gamberini and Philip Malan take to the ice at Skate Berlin this month, becoming the country’s first-ever Basic Novice Pairs team to debut at an ISU-listed international competition.
The partnership, which began almost by chance during a try-out lesson in 2022, has grown into something that’s about to make history.
Their coach, Konrad Giering, Head Coach at Evolution on Ice in Pretoria, recalls the moment it all clicked.
“When we first put them together, I immediately noticed how well their personalities and learning styles matched. Milanѐ pushes energy into the partnership, and Philip grounds it. From the start, there was mutual respect and an ease in working together that is rare at their age.”
That contrast has become their defining feature. Milanѐ brings confidence and expressive movement, while Philip offers a more calm and control style.
“What makes this pair special is how naturally they complement each other. Milanѐ brings confidence, sass, and expressive energy, while Phillip brings calm focus, intelligence, and quiet control. Together, they create balance.”
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“The biggest breakthrough has been their growing trust in each other. The quality they have that you cannot teach is coachability and trust.”
The skaters themselves echo that sentiment.
“The biggest lesson we have learned skating together is to listen to each other and to the coach and to learn that everyone can make mistakes and that you are not always right.”
They train four mornings a week from 05:00 to 06:30 before school, balancing academics, other sports and music alongside their skating. With all these hours of practice, they hope to make it all count.
More than anything, the pair looks to gain experience.
“Our main goal for our international debut is to skate a personal best. We want to gain international experience and meet other international pair skaters.”
When Milanѐ and Philip step onto the ice in Berlin, it won’t just be another competition. It will me a powerful first. And South Africa can be sure to see them return on another international stage.
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