What is Intro to Skating?
This program is designed for new skaters 3-5 years of age.
Previous experience is not required and parents are not permitted on the ice. Each 30-minute class includes a warm up, group instruction and activity time. Incentives are given to each skater at the end of most classes. Coaches use teaching aids such as hula-hoops, hockey sticks, bubbles and balls along with circuits to encourage continuous movement.
What equipment do skaters require?
- Skates: we recommend either hockey or figure skates (not adjustable skates). Please take the time to have your skater fitted properly and ensure new skates have been sharpened before your 1st session. Stability attachments on blades are not permitted, nor are chairs or other skating aids.
- A CSA approved hockey helmet is mandatory. Bicycle or skiing helmets are not acceptable. Your skater can wear a hockey helmet with or without a cage.
- Clothing appropriate for the cold. When skaters are first starting out, they do spend some time on the ice learning to get up, so snow pants or splash pants with layers underneath are recommended. Waterproof mittens or gloves as well as a jacket or sweater will keep your skater warm as they learn to skate.
Who is on the ice with the skaters?
Our Intro to Skating program is taught by coaches certified with Skate Canada and the Coaching Association of Canada. They are also First Aid certified. We also have program assistants on the ice to assist the coaches and skaters. Program assistants are experienced skaters who volunteer their time to help with our Learn to Skate programs.
The Intro to Skating program has a coach to skater ratio of 1:5, meaning there will be a minimum of 1 coach or program assistant for every 5 skaters.
How are skaters separated on the ice?
Our Intro to Skating program has three different levels:
- Red – Skaters in this level are new to the program
- Yellow – Skaters in this level can stand up without assistance
- Green – Skaters in this level can skate the width of the rink
*Assessments occur daily and skaters may be moved from one colour to another throughout the season.
What is the Skate Canada Membership fee?
All skaters must be registered with Skate Canada prior to taking to the ice. The annual membership fee for the 2023/2024 season will be $58.65. This annual Skate Canada membership and insurance is valid from September 1st 2023 to August 31st 2024. This fee is 100% non-refundable.
Who do I contact for more information?
For questions regarding programming, please contact our Program Coordinator at info@georginaskatingclub.org
For questions regarding registration, please contact our Registrar at registerwithgsc@gmail.com