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Created in 2013, Skate Guard Blog explores the overlooked, forgotten, and underappreciated corners of figure skating history - from little-known stories to fresh perspectives on famous skaters, eras, and events. There’s always something new to discover, so grab a cup of coffee and glide into the rich, fascinating history of the world’s most beloved winter sport.

John Maddison

 John Ernest Maddison

April 9, 1957-December 3, 1990


Born in San Francisco, John Maddison got his start at the Diablo Figure Skating Club. He earned top four finishes in the novice pairs event at the Central Pacific Championships with his first two partners, Martha Novario and Stacey Pennette. Teaming up with Danelle Porter, he finished third in the novice pairs event at the 1975 Pacific Coast Championships. Danelle and John won the bronze medal in the junior pairs event at the 1976 U.S. Championships, representing the St. Moritz Ice Skating Club. John passed away on December 3, 1990 - the same day Paul McGrath died - in Concord, California at the age of thirty-three.

*Source for inclusion: Interview with David Hicks, April 2021