OUR JOURNEY
Before becoming an international ice dance team, Samantha Ritter and Daniel Brykalov spent years training side by side as friends — sharing the same ice, the same dedication, and the same dream of reaching the highest level of the sport.
Samantha and Daniel first met in Novi, Michigan in 2018 while training under renowned coach Igor Shpilband. Although they skated with different partners at the time, they quickly developed a strong friendship built through countless hours of training and shared experiences on and off the ice.
After years of training alongside each other, Samantha and Daniel made a decision that would change the course of their careers. In January 2021, they officially joined forces as an ice dance team.
Their friendship had already created a strong foundation of trust, commitment, and belief in what they could achieve together.
Shortly after forming their partnership, Samantha and Daniel relocated to London, Ontario, Canada, to continue pursuing their goals at the highest level of international ice dance.
There, they trained at the Ice Academy of Montreal's London Campus under the guidance of Olympic Champion and ice dance legend Scott Moir, whose experience and leadership helped shape the next stage of their development as athletes.
Their years in Canada became a defining chapter of their career. Working within one of the world's most respected training environments, Samantha and Daniel refined their technical skills, strengthened their partnership, and gained invaluable international experience.
Under Scott Moir's guidance, they achieved one of their most important milestones, earning qualification to the World Championships on two separate occasions and continuing to establish themselves on the international stage.
Samantha and Daniel remain deeply grateful to Scott Moir, the coaching staff, and everyone who supported their development during this important period of their journey.
International pride. National responsibility.
Representing Azerbaijan is a source of tremendous pride and responsibility for Samantha and Daniel.
Every competition is an opportunity to showcase not only their athletic abilities, but also the passion, artistry, and dedication that define the sport of ice dance.
As they continue their journey, Samantha and Daniel remain committed to representing Azerbaijan with professionalism, integrity, and excellence on the international stage.
In the summer of 2026, Samantha and Daniel embraced the next step in their competitive journey. After several successful seasons in Canada, they relocated to New Jersey to join a new coaching team led by Olympian Igor Lukanin.
As a former Olympic athlete and international competitor who proudly represented Azerbaijan, Igor brings a unique perspective and firsthand understanding of the path Samantha and Daniel are pursuing.
Beginning July 1, 2026, Samantha and Daniel start this new chapter with renewed motivation, fresh energy, and a clear vision for the future.
While they will always value the lessons and achievements that shaped their years in Canada, they are equally excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to working with their new coaching team as they continue representing Azerbaijan on the international stage.
Their story is still being written. With every competition, every performance, and every season on the ice, Samantha and Daniel continue pursuing excellence and pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve together.