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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Q-Should I take group or private lessons?
A: Most skaters begin with group lessons.
Group classes teach the basic
skills that are necessary in figure skating and hockey.
This rink offers group lessons through the USFSA Learn-to-Skate
Program. Check with the director of the rink for details of
which days and times the lessons are offered. Group lessons are also
economical.
The price of the group lesson pays for the instruction and the price
of the ice when the lesson is taking place. Also included is a
30-minute practice time, either before or after the lesson.
Q:
What is testing and when should I have
my child tested?
A: Usually during the
last week of each Group Lesson session, the instructor will give a test
to each skater. If the skater passes the
test, they can then progress to the next level of group lessons.
If not, the skater will need to repeat the level. It is
important that a skater masters the skills at each level before
moving on to the next level.
Q:
Does my child need private lessons? If
so, how will I know when he/she is ready?
A: Private Lessons
will be the next step if the skater has mastered most or all of the skills in
the group classes, is having a difficult time learning one or more
skills, wishes to advance more quickly, or perhaps learns better when
working one-on-one with a coach.
To take private lessons, you will need to schedule a time with one
of the coaches that work at the rink. The skating director can
provide you with a list of coaches that have been approved by the
rink.
Each coach charges a different rate for their instruction.
Fees range from $18 to $25 per 20 minute lesson. Check with
the coach before the first lesson for their rate. Their rate
DOES NOT include the cost of the ice. You will have to pay the
rink for the time the skater is on the ice during the lesson.
What are these new things I'm seeing listed under ISI Events????
Rhythmic Skating is similar to rhythmic gymnastic events — but on ice. Choose a prop (ball, hoop or ribbon) and choreograph a skating program using that prop throughout your routine. There are no required maneuvers, but the emphasis is on creatively using the prop throughout your routine. No props are allowed during the event warm-up.
Ensemble Team is a new group event for three to seven skaters. It’s like a group Spotlight program or a mini Production number. Any kind of routine can be performed, and there are no required maneuvers or maneuver limitations. Props are limited to those that can be set up during your 30-second set-up time. No props are allowed on the ice during warm-up. Judging criteria is the same as for Spotlight and Production team events.
Jump & Spin Team allows two skaters from different test levels to compete together within the same category level. It’s like Solo Compulsories for two people. One skater does a required jump two times; then the other skater does a required spin two times. The judges score the best attempt. Skater teams are grouped by category: Low (Pre-Alpha-Delta); Medium (Freestyle 1-3); Intermediate (Freestyle 4-5); and High (Freestyle 6-10) — and then by partner ages.
The following are offered at national events only:
Solo Surprise is a fun event that has been offered at ISI national events since 2005. It usually consists of a task or game not related to skating ability or skill. Skaters of similar age and levels are grouped together to perform the task or game. Some Freestyle-level events might require completing skating skills from their level or below. It’s a great way to earn another medal as well as more team points.
Team Surprise is the newest group event. It’s like Solo Surprise, but for a team of four skaters. This event is typically a relay-style game that is age-appropriate for the level and skill of the participants. It’s a great way to have fun while competing with your friends.
(description on events excerpted from Recreations Ice Skating, Winter 2007, p.24)
