Learn to Skate is just what the name implies - it is a beginning skating program that introduces skaters to the fundamentals of figure skating. In the course of the program, skaters will learn everything from walking and "falling" on the ice to beginning jumps and spins. Our program follows the guidelines set forth by the United States Figure Skating Association (USFSA) in their Basic Skills program.
What can I expect?
Follow these simple tips to get the most out of your skating lessons:
Listen attentively. Try the skill, ask a question if you don't understand, and try it again. Your instructor should be able to show you the skill, break it down into easy steps, and offer a few suggestions for quick mastery.
Be a courteous skater, watch where you are going, and always skate in control.
Be prepared for your lesson with correct fitting skates, warm attire and gloves or mittens.
Be on time! Arrive at least 15 minutes before class time.
Relax, smile and have fun!
What does the Oswego Figure Skating Club expect?
We expect that you have your child ready for their lesson at their appropriate time. This means on the ice, with their skates on, warming up. Lessons will start on time and your child will only disrupt things if they are late. Please be fair to everyone in the group.
Skating is a wonderful sport, but there is a chance for accidents to happen. OFSC requires each skater to have a parent or responsible adult with them at the rink at all times. Unforeseen circumstances can arise at a moment’s notice and YOU need to be available to your child.
What about Skates?
The boots should provide a snug fit. A skate needs to be an extension of the foot, fit snugly, and be laced up properly. Look for these three factors in picking out a skate that fits you properly: your size and weight, skating ability and how many times a week you plan to skate. If the boot does not fit properly or is too "broken in," it will not provide adequate support. Proper fit is essential for success in skating!
Basically, the fit should be snug, with the lacing pattern constant from toe to ankle. When you push your foot forward to touch your toe to the end of the skate, if you can put a finger inside the skate between the back of your foot and end of your skate, it is too big.
It is not always necessary to buy new skates, especially when first learning to skate. Used skates can be a great bargain...if you know what to look for. If you are unsure of the quality of a pair of used skates, please ask the skating director or your instructor for some tips.
When purchasing new equipment, go to a reputable pro shop or sporting goods store and take the time to find a pair. Skates, like most sporting equipment, get more sophisticated as your ability increases. Most manufacturers produce a beginning boot that comes with a beginning blade.
REMEMBER - All skates need to be sharpened BEFORE their first wearing whether they are new or used. You’ll need those edges to glide and stop
How should I dress my child?
This is always a difficult question to answer. You are the best judge of your child's needs. Things to keep in mind, however are the fact that this is a winter sport and some days it is VERY cold out on the ice. You also must keep in mind that your child needs to have mobility (snowsuits are too restricting of movement). The best advice is to dress your child in layers that can be added or removed depending on their needs. Try and make sure that you have at least one extra pair of gloves (sometimes the ice is wetter than other times and gloves can get soggy). Many skaters like headbands and neck warmers, they can easily be put on or taken off as needed.
How fast will my child progress?
Like any sport, the more your child puts into it, the more they will get out of it. Any new skill requires practice. We encourage you to use all the time made available to you for practice. A child who arrives just in time for their lessons and leaves right after will not progress as fast as the child who skates before their lesson and then stays to practice the skills they just learned. You are the best source of encouragement for your skater, they work hard - remember to tell them how proud you are of them, we are. They are the future stars of tomorrow!!
Information regarding registration for the 2010-2011 Season
will be available in the fall.
Questions can be sent to: ofsclearn2skate@yahoo.com
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