What Is 2017-18 ISU Junior Grand Prix

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2017–18 ISU Junior Grand Prix was a series of seven international junior-level figure skating competitions held between August and October 2017, culminating in the Junior Grand Prix Final in Nagoya, Japan, from December 7–10, 2017.

Key Facts

The series consisted of seven events across different countries from August to October 2017
Top 6 skaters in each discipline qualified for the 2017–18 Junior Grand Prix Final
The Final was held in Nagoya, Japan, from December 7–10, 2017
Disciplines included men's singles, women's singles, pairs, and ice dance
Skaters earned points based on placements to qualify for the Final

Overview

The 2017–18 ISU Junior Grand Prix was a prestigious series of international figure skating competitions designed for junior-level athletes. Organized by the International Skating Union (ISU), it served as a developmental platform for young skaters aiming to reach senior-level international competition.

The season spanned from August to December 2017, featuring events in multiple countries. Skaters competed across four disciplines: men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance, with points awarded based on placements to determine qualification for the Final.

Seven events were held across Europe, Asia, and North America between August and October 2017, providing global exposure for junior skaters.
Each competition awarded points based on final placement, with the top six in each discipline advancing to the Final.
The 2017–18 Junior Grand Prix Final took place in Nagoya, Japan, from December 7–10, 2017, as part of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final weekend.
Eligible skaters were within the ISU-defined junior age range, typically 13 to 19 years old depending on the discipline and gender.
Notable future stars, including Alina Zagitova and Alexandra Trusova, competed in this series before rising to senior prominence.

How It Works

The structure of the Junior Grand Prix series mirrored the senior Grand Prix but focused exclusively on up-and-coming talent. Skaters earned qualification points through placements at individual events, with only the highest scorers advancing.

Event Structure: Seven international competitions were held, each functioning as a standalone event with medals awarded; results contributed to a points-based ranking.
Point System: Skaters received points based on final placement—1st = 15 points, 2nd = 13, 3rd = 11, down to 6th = 7 points; lower placements earned fewer points.
Qualification: The top six skaters or teams in each discipline across all events qualified for the Junior Grand Prix Final, provided they competed in at least two events.
Disciplines: Competitions included men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance, each following ISU rules and scoring protocols for junior-level competition.
Age Limits: Skaters had to meet ISU age requirements—born between July 1, 1998, and July 1, 2004—to be eligible for the 2017–18 season.
Host Nations: Events were hosted in Latvia, Poland, Austria, Slovakia, Russia, Japan, and Canada, offering geographic diversity and international experience.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2017–18 Junior Grand Prix with the concurrent senior Grand Prix series:

Feature	Junior Grand Prix 2017–18	Senior Grand Prix 2017–18
Number of Events	7	6
Final Location	Nagoya, Japan	Nagoya, Japan
Age Range	13–19 (by discipline)	No upper limit; minimum 15–17
Qualifying Spots	Top 6 per discipline	Top 6 per discipline
Final Dates	December 7–10, 2017	December 7–10, 2017

Despite differences in age and experience, both series shared the same Final venue and dates, highlighting the ISU’s effort to integrate junior development with elite competition. The co-location emphasized the pathway from junior to senior levels and allowed fans to witness future champions in development.

Why It Matters

The 2017–18 ISU Junior Grand Prix played a crucial role in shaping the future of figure skating by identifying and nurturing emerging talent on an international stage. Many participants went on to achieve success at World Championships and the Olympics.

Development Pipeline: The series acts as a critical feeder system for senior international competitions, helping skaters transition from national to global levels.
Global Exposure: Competing across seven countries allows young athletes to gain experience with different rinks, time zones, and judging panels.
Scouting Opportunity: Coaches, federations, and media use the series to identify rising stars and track long-term potential.
Competition Readiness: Skaters learn to manage pressure, media, and travel—essential skills for future Olympic and World contenders.
Rule Familiarity: Competitors become accustomed to ISU scoring systems and protocols, reducing adjustment stress at senior levels.
Historical Significance: Past Junior Grand Prix participants include Yuzuru Hanyu, Evgenia Medvedeva, and Nathan Chen, underscoring its predictive value.

By providing a structured, competitive environment, the Junior Grand Prix remains a cornerstone of figure skating’s global talent development strategy, ensuring a steady pipeline of elite athletes.