Igor Shpilband, who had a very publicized split from his skating club and coaching partner last week, will be moving to Novi Ice Arena in Novi, Michigan. Students Madison Chock and Evan Bates will be joining him there. Chock and Bates formerly trained under Shpilband and Marina Zoueva at Arctic Figure Skating Club in Canton, Michigan.
According to the Detroit Free Press:
"Working with Igor has always been invigorating and I look forward to continuing our skating career under his guidance," Bates said in a statement. "He is a brilliant coach, and I am confident that he will do everything to help us achieve our goals on the ice. I am sincerely grateful to have worked with Marina. She is talented and I have wonderful memories of my time with her. My experience in Canton has been nothing but positive. Thanks to the team of coaches and my training mates."
Chock and Bates were fifth at the recent U.S. Championships. It appears that the other top skaters under Zoueva and Shpilband are sticking with Zoueva for now.