Jeffrey Buttle

Class of 2012: Athlete

Jeffrey Buttle was born to skate. Born to entertain.

Since learning to skate at age two and competing since he was six, Jeffrey was destined for stardom while working with Lee Barkell at the world-renowned Mariposa School of Skating in Barrie, Ont. and Rafael Arutunian at the Ice Castle International Training Center in Lake Arrowhead, Calif.

In 2002, Jeffrey broke through on the international scene with an upset triumph at the ISU Four Continents Figure Skating Championships, a feat he would repeat two years later. A crowd favourite due to his exquisite artistry and choreography, Jeffrey won his first of three consecutive Canadian men’s titles in 2005.

Following a bronze medal at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games, Jeffrey realized the defining moment of his career in 2008. He won the ISU World Figure Skating Championships in stunning fashion in Gothenburg, Sweden, becoming the first Canadian male to win the world crown since Elvis Stojko in 1997.

Shortly after his world triumph, Jeffrey retired from competitive skating – but he has never really left. He is now considered one of the brightest young choreographers in the skating world, working on programs for the likes of Patrick Chan, Yuzuru Hanyu, Nam Nguyen, Yuna Kim and Ashley Wagner. As well, he has choreographed and performed in several shows, including Stars on Ice and Battle of the Blades.

Currently working with young skaters at The Toronto Cricket, Skating and Curling Club, Jeffrey continues to be a role model and gives back to his community, performing in charity initiatives and giving time to several causes, including World Vision Canada, Skate for the Heart and the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation.