SKATING 101 PROGRAM

​What is Skating 101?

​Skating 101 is a beginning ice skating program that serves the needs of many new and ‘beginner skaters’. Whether you want to play hockey, move on to figure skating or just learn to skate for recreation, If you have never stepped on the ice, or are looking to advance your skating skills, we have a class for you.

​What is the minimum age requirement for Skating 101?

We require all skaters to be at least 3 years of age. Skating 101 consists of learning to skate in a group setting. Children under the age of three have a harder time communicating in a group setting.

Can adults join Skating 101? ​

Absolutely! We split all our groups up based on age and ability, Skaters ages 16 and up will always be placed in groups with other skaters 16 and up. Whether you want to learn to skate with your kids, want to join our Never Ever adult hockey program, figure skate, or just learn to skate for fun, we will help you reach your goals. It’s never too late to learn.

What does "beginner skater" mean?

This is one of our most frequently asked questions. A beginner skater is someone who ranges from a true beginner (never skated before) to some who has skated before, but has not mastered the fundamentals of skating.

How are the classes structured?

Each Class is 50 minutes long and is broken up into two halves. Participants will receive 25 minutes of lesson time and 25 minutes of supervised practice time each week. Brand new skaters, as well as our tots-aged skaters, will always have the first lesson. If you are not in the first group, you will have 25 minutes of practice time and then you will have your lesson in the second half of the session. If you are in the first lesson group, the second half of the session time will be your practice time. ​

What Should We Expect at Our First Skating 101 Class?

​Please arrive 30 minutes early the first day of class to allow enough time to get ready.  The first night of the session we meet off the ice in front of skate rental, skaters are placed in a group based on their age and skill level. We start each group off-ice to make sure skates are tied properly and to teach the basics of falling down and standing up. Once on the ice our experienced coaches will make an assessment of each skater and we will make the necessary adjustments to the groups so that every skater ends up in a class appropriate for their skill level.

Do I need to have my own skates?

No! Rental skates are provided free of charge

How do I select what skates to wear?

Skates should fit snug, skates that are too big will make it difficult to balance.
Hockey skates generally you want to go down a size from your normal shoe size, while figure skates run more true to size. We recommend that beginner skaters start in a figure skate the first few weeks as it is easier to balance on the longer flatter blade.

Can I/do I have to go on the ice with my kids?

At this time due to COVID-19 we are not allowing parents on the ice. State mandates restrict the occupancy of all spaces within our facility (including the rink areas), therefore on-ice areas are restricted solely for staff and participants of the program.  
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Parents/guardians are able to observe the class from alongside the rink, inside player benches, or from the heated lobby viewing areas.

How large is each lesson group?

At this time due to COVID-19 we are limiting the number of participants to 30 per session. We are limiting each group to ten skaters and we will have one head coach and one or two assistant coaches for each class. For our youngest/beginner classes, we try our best to have one coach/assistant coach per 2-3 skaters.

What to wear to class?

• We strongly recommend wearing warm comfortable clothing, dressing in layers including pants that allow for movement. Snow pants and winter coats are recommended for younger children. 
  
• Gloves or Mittens - ski/waterproof gloves are recommended.
  
• A helmet for skaters under the age of 18 is also required. A bike helmet or hockey helmet will do just fine. 
  
• Skaters are not required to wear a mask but they can if they feel more comfortable with one on.
  

If I miss one of my lessons, can I make it up?

​As each class has their own learning curve and learns at different paces, we do not allow for make-up classes.​