1) It is important to have communication with parents from the very beginning. As soon as a parent steps into the rink with a tiny tot skater, lines of communication between the rink, club, coach and so on must be created.
2) Skating is not stressful, it is a privilege. This is important for each skater to keep in mind, and just as important for each parent to remember.
3) Skating is not about winning, it is about feeling satisfied in what you have accomplished out on the ice.
Next up was: Real Programs that Work
Seven different speakers from various clubs around the country showcased various programs that they have successfully done. My personal favorites included the "big buddy idea", where younger skaters were paired with a more advanced skater, the "gong event" done in Wyoming, and the basic skills competition series done in Michigan.
Finally, the highlight of the day was the Moves in the Field Changes meeting.
Presented to a packed crowd, the new MIF were explained in great detail. First, each of the changes to existing moves was outlined. Second, the new moves were showcased via video. Third, implementation across the country was discussed.
Questions arose primarily about implementation in regards to judges, coaches, trial judges, and skaters. The whole presentation was very informative and well put together by those on the new MIF task force.
By this time Saturday we will know if they have passed!
Tomorrow promises to be a big day with Sectional Meetings, the beginning of Governing Council and the Athlete Alumni Dinner.
I'm off to bed for now!
-Katie
Hi Katie, While MIF are not my thing (directly) I always felt some of the recent changes were pushed to implementation too early, in my opinion, this created a huge learning curve, for the coaches, competitors and judges leading to unnecessary "quick fixes" in the rule book. I'm sure there are a lot of deadlines in the publishing of new rules that I'm not aware of, I feel a smooth transition is preferable to a rushed implementation.
ReplyDeleteCommunication with parents: Keeping in mind first skating needs to be fun and provide a clear learning path.
Skating is not stressful; it is a privilege (for us older skaters it contributes to mental health as well!)
I whole heartedly support the "Big Buddy Idea" maybe even the "Old" buddy
idea, I continue to effect as much interaction from our Old Ice Dancers with the young skaters at the beginnings of their experiences on the ice, Rev (70+)& Kristie (maybe 15?) was a great example on last weeks dance session...
I enjoyed you update, Thanks
Don SMISC & BAID