The International Skating Union (ISU) has a new mission. Leaders want to make ice skating cool again. Or, at least, cool to more people.

It’s an intricate, difficult sport. Skaters gracefully pull off spins and jumps on a slippery surface. Die-hard skating fans follow the sport year-round. But many folks tune in only once every four years—for the skating events at the Winter Olympic Games. 

That’s why the ISU created “Vision 2030.” That’s a plan to keep fans excited about the sport. 

This year’s figure skating world championships events are taking place March 25 to 30 in Boston, Massachusetts. Fans might notice some changes. New LED screens line the rink. The screens showcase each skater’s social media tag. The athletes make grand entrances. The arena pumps in more energetic music. 

The ISU wants to impress viewers. The arena holds more than 14,000 fans. And millions more watch from around the world. In the future, Vision 2030 will improve TV coverage. The ISU will make the rules of the sport easier to follow. The organization will also encourage more brands to sponsor competitions. 

Vision 2030 includes upgrades for the athletes too. At the world championships, a huge lounge is provided just for competitors. At their hotel, there’s a relaxation room with therapy dogs.

The new hot seat in the venue probably won’t be as calming. After a skater takes the lead, he or she will take a seat in the heart of the arena. That person will stay there until someone else makes a higher score. This change will give fans more time to watch the skaters. Viewers will see them interact with competitors. 

“Skaters are the reason why this sport exists,” says ISU president Jae Youl Kim. “We are so proud of our athletes. And we want to make sure we shine a brighter, stronger spotlight on our skaters.”