After discovering his passion for skating in Johannesburg, Etienne Dreyer has gone on to achieve one of the sport’s highest honours, becoming only the second South African to qualify as an ISU Championship Judge.
Oberstdorf, Germany (28 October 2025) – For most Joburgers, winter means layers and layers of clothing, but for Etienne Dreyer, it meant lacing up and taking on the ice. Just across the road from his school in Johannesburg, an ice rink changed the course of his life.
“From the moment I was on the ice, the feeling of gliding freely, the cool air on my face and the sound of the music made me want to go back again and again. So, my parents signed me up for the academy classes.”
Guided by coach Colleen Millard, Etienne went on to compete internationally. When his competitive days ended, he found a new way to stay connected to the ice. Neil Garrard encouraged him to try judging as a way of remaining involved and to give back to the sport.
Mentorship has shaped his path from day one.
“My main mentor has always been Neil. He was the first South African Judge to pass the ISU exam and is extremely knowledgeable about the sport, having judged numerous world championships. Other critical mentors who always encouraged me were Enzo, as well as Jenny and Fiona in Durban.”
Recently, Etienne reached a milestone that few South Africans can claim, passing the ISU Championship Judging Exam in Oberstdorf, Germany.
“When I heard the words congratulations, I felt immense gratitude for everyone who has supported me. I am also proud to represent SAFSA at this highest level. All the hours in cold ice rinks, hundreds of competitions and thousands of tests had all been worth it.”
Christo Viljoen, President of the South African Figure Skating Association (SAFSA), called it a historic milestone for South African figure skating, adding that Etienne now joins Neil Garrard as only the second ISU Championship Judge from South Africa.
For Etienne, this achievement goes beyond personal success.
“This is such an honour, but also a responsibility to create a positive image when I represent SAFSA on the judges’ stand. I get the chance to show the world that even though our country is a small federation, we have great athletes and our judges are knowledgeable.”
by 