BAY COUNTRY

FIGURE SKATING CLUB

 

Coaches & Instructors

 

Coaches                    Experience (years)

Mara Schmittinger                6

Rebecca Reitz                     11

Thomas Harrison                  4

Bridgette Amory, Ed.D           5

Marilyn Day                        17

Tanis MacDonald, DVM         10

Instructors                Experience (years)

Chelsea Harris                     2

Michael Murphy                    3

What is the difference between an instructor and a coach?

An instructor will teach you the basics of skating. A coach will teach you the basics of skating and take care of other aspects related to skating such as off-ice training, diet and nutrition, preparation for competition, music interpretation, etc. Both are involved in choreographing routines for competitions and preparing the student for testing and many times will accompany the student to testing sessions and competitions.

 

How do I choose a coach or instructor?

Besides determining which you need based on your or your child's needs, a coach/instructor needs to be a good fit for you and your child.  A good relationship needs to develop.  Word of mouth is one way to start-ask around to find who is available and ask the rink or skating director. A "trial" lesson is another way to determine if a coach/instructor is a good fit.

Remember, if you are switching from one coach to another, be open and honest.  Let your current coach know his/her services are no longer needed before you hire the new coach. To hire a new coach before the current coach is let go is unethical.