This is our last week of skating for the winter 2023-2024 season!
There is no skating the week of April 29 - May 3
Our spring 2024 season will start on Monday, May 6, 2024 at the Minto Barrhaven facility
FUTURE STARS
The Future Stars Program is for those who have a desire to further their figure skating skills and is intended to provide both the skater and the parent with an “Introduction to Figure Skating”. Lessons are provided in a group format.
The Future Stars program is open to all skaters that have passed CanSkate stage 2 and achieved 2 out of 3 CanSkate stage 3 ribbons, and who are interested in figure skating.
STAR 1-5
The STAR 1-5 program offers the best-in-class figure skating curriculum in Canada, targeting athletes looking for a future in the sport. Taught by Skate Canada NCCP coaches, the program introduces participants to the basic figure skating elements to create the foundation for singles, pairs, ice dance and synchronized skating.
All skaters in this program must have passed CanSkate Stage 6 or equivalent. Skaters may be any age. Adaptive skaters who have the required skating ability welcome.
STAR 6- GOLD
STAR 6- Gold is an assessment and event structure for skaters who completed the STAR 1-5 Program. This structure builds on the skills acquired in STAR 1-5 and introduces skaters to more advanced figure skating elements.
DISCIPLINES
Figure skating has four disciplines that lead to a high performance pathway.
Singles: Single skating is a term used to describe the discipline of freeskate. Generally, this is the most recognized form of figure skating.
Pairs: Pair skating involves two individuals skating as a unit performing freeskating moves. Pair skating also includes lifts, death spirals and throws.
Ice Dance: Inspired by ballroom dancing, this discipline incorporates musicality, performances and athletisim to all your favourite rhythms.
Synchronized: Synchronized skating, or “synchro” is a specialized discipline of skating involving groups of eight or more skaters performing various group formations and maneuvers. The objective is for the team to perform as one unit executing circles, blocks, lines, wheels and intersections in unison to the music, while demonstrating quality edges, power and flow. Synchronized Skating categories accommodate skaters at any age and skill level.
- Program Descriptions
- Schedules & Special Dates
- Cancellations
- Policies
- Future Stars FAQ
- Star Group FAQ
- STAR 1 to 5 FAQ
- STAR 6 to Gold FAQ
Future Stars - Introduction to Figure Skating
The Future Stars Program is for those who have a desire to further their figure skating skills and is intended to provide both the skater and the parent with an “Introduction to Figure Skating”.
The Future Stars program is open to all skaters that have passed CanSkate stage 2 and achieved 2 out of 3 CanSkate stage 3 ribbons and who are interested in figure skating.
The 50 minute session provides skaters with 50 minutes of coach-led group lessons including a warm up, challenge time and a cool down.
In Future Stars skaters continue to develop their CanSkate skills while learning figure skating skills.
STAR Group - Figure Skating (not offered every season)
The STAR Group program is open to all skaters at the STAR 1 level who are interested in coach-led group lessons.
The 50 minute session provides skaters with coach-led group lessons including a warm up, challenge time and a cool down.
The STAR Group program focuses on the learning and development of the STAR 1 level skating elements - freeskate, ice dance, and skating skills.
STAR Group is part of the STARSKate STAR 1 to 5 program.
STARSkate - Figure Skating: STAR 1 to 5
The STARSkate Star 1 to 5 program consists of figure skating skills in five disciplines – Skating Skills, Ice Dance, Free Skate, Artistic and Synchronized Skating. Each area is divided into the following levels:
Junior Level – STAR 1 to 2
Skating Skills: STAR 1 to 2
Free Skate: STAR 1 to 2
Dance: STAR 1 to 2
Synchro: STAR 2
Intermediate Level – STAR 3 to 5
Skating Skills: STAR 3 to 5
Free Skate: STAR 3 to 5
Dance: STAR 3 to 5
Synchro: STAR 3 t0 4
Artistic: STAR 5
STARSkate - Figure Skating: STAR 6 to Gold
The STARSkate Star 6 to Gold consists of figure skating skills in four disciplines – Skating Skills, Ice Dance, Free Skate, and Artistic. Each area is divided into the following levels:
Senior Level - STAR 6 to Gold
Skating Skills: STAR 6 to Gold
Free Skate: STAR 6 to Gold
Dance: STAR 6 to Gold
Artistic: STAR 7, STAR 9 & Gold
CompetitiveSkate -Figure Skating: Juvenile to Senior
Skaters enrolled in CompetitiveSkate learn a variety of life skills as they progress up the competitive ladder. These include goal setting, focus, ability to deal with success/failure, time management and principles of fair play and sportsmanship. In addition to the life skill benefits, skaters in this program receive:
- access to provincial and national funding programs (as applicable)
- the opportunity to be selected to Skate Canada’s National Team
- the opportunity to compete at Skate Canada Sectionals, Skate Canada Challenge, and/or the Canadian Figure Skating Championships
- opportunity and potential to be selected to represent Canada internationally
- access to sport science services
STARSkate Spring 2024 Schedule (May) - click HERE
STARSkate Spring 2024 Schedule (June) - click HERE
STARSkate Summer 2024 Schedule (July/August) - click HERE
Special Dates:
STAR 6 to Gold Assessment Days: Wednesday, November 22, 2023, April 20, 2024
In the Fall/Winter seasons, STARSkate is offered at the Manotick and Fred Barrett arenas.
In the Spring/Summer seasons, STARSkate is offered at the Fred Barrett arena.
STARSkate Spring 2024 Cancellation Dates (no skating days on these days):
Monday, May 20, 2024
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
Future Stars Spring 2024 Cancellation Dates (no skating days on these days):
None
Payments
Full payment is required at the time of registration.
Policies
The Member Policies document can be found HERE
Refunds
All requests for program withdrawals and/or refunds must be done in writing to info@rideauskating.ca. We do not accept in person or over the phone withdrawal or refund requests.
See the full Refund Policy, please see the Member Policies document.
Missed Classes
Participants are to attend all classes as scheduled for the program in which they are registered. Skaters may replace a missed session up to a maximum of three (3) times in a given season. Skaters must confirm a replacement session with their coach prior to skating
Change of Program Day/Time
A parent/skater may request, free of charge, two (2) program change in a season. Subsequent changes will be subjected to a fee of $15/change.
Coach requested changes are not subject to the change fee.
Helmet Policy
Rideau Skating Club adheres to the Skate Canada's helmet use policy. The helmet use policy is outlined on the Skate Canada website (www.skatecanada.ca) in the Safe Sport Guide.
The full Safe Sport Guide can be found at the following link: Safe Sport Guide (skatecanada.ca)
- Skaters working on STAGE 5 and below, as well as skaters in the CanPowerSkate program, MUST wear a CSA approved hockey helmet with a valid expiry date.
- Skaters working on STAGE 6 or higher may choose to continue to wear a helmet at their discretion. The skater, parent/guardian have the final say as to whether or not the skater will or will not wear a helmet.
- Skaters, regardless of age, who lack good control/balance when skating forward, backwards and have difficulty stopping, as well as maneuvering around obstacles on the ice are required to wear a CSA approved hockey helmet.
- The helmet policy is not optional for clubs. Failure to meet the Skate Canada helmet policy, in programs that require a helmet, will result in the skater being refused entry to the ice surface or being escorted off the ice.
To see the full Helmet policy, please see the Member Policies document.
Fees
Coaching fees for the Future Stars program are included in the registration fees.
Coaching fees for the coach-led group lesson portion of the STAR Group program are included in the registration fees.
Coaching fees for any additional private lessons are invoiced directly to the parent by their coach. A list of coaches is available on the the Club website.
Future Stars FAQ
Is skating experience required to register for the Future Stars program?
Yes, skaters must have passed CanSkate stage 2 and 2 out of 3 CanSkate stage 3 ribbons of the CanSkate program to participate in the Future Stars program.
Future Stars is the introductory program for skaters who want to fast track into figure skating.
What do the Future Star program registration fees cover?
The Future Stars program is 50 minutes of coach-led group lessons.
The registration fees cover the coaching fees for the group lessons and ice time.
What equipment is required for the Future Stars program?
It is highly recommended, but not required, that skaters in the Future Stars program wear figure skates. Athletic clothing, skating skirts, leggings and/or simple skating dresses can be worn by skaters during practice ice. Hooded sweatshirts are not recommended as they can affect the skater’s balance and obstruct their view. CSA approved hockey helmets are required for skaters that are working on CanSkate Stage 5 and below.
Is a private coach required for the Future Stars program?
No, you do not need a private coach in Future Stars. However, adding private lessons can benefit your skater and increase their progress.
Why private lessons?
Private lessons provide the skaters with more one on one attention allowing for lessons to be focused on the specific skills they need to improve and helps increase the rate of progress.
Private, Semi-Private or Small Group Private lessons are being offered during all our Future Stars sessions. Private lessons are usually sold in 10-15-minute time slots.
How do I get a private coach for my skater?
Choosing a coach can seem like a daunting task at first but it can be made easier with the following tips:
1. Does your skater already enjoy working with one of the Future Stars group coaches in particular?
2. Watch a few sessions and see how the coaches interact with their skaters to see what style might best fit your skater
3. We also offer free trial lessons where skaters can try out private lessons with one or more of the available coaches to see what the best fit for you and your skater.
How do I set up a free trial private lesson for my skater?
To set up trial lessons please contact the Rideau SC Future Stars Coordinator at futurestars@rideauskating.ca to make the arrangements.
How much do private lessons cost and how do I pay?
Coaching rates vary depending the coaches experience and certification. Charges for a 10-minute lesson will range from $6.00-$9.00 depending on the coach you choose to work with. The rates are based on the experience and certification level of the coach. Private lesson fees are invoiced directly to you by the coach you are working with usually bi-weekly or monthly depending on the coach’s preference.
Please note coach availability also varies so you will want to check with the coach you choose to confirm they have lesson time available at your preferred session.
How many times a week should my skater be skating?
Future Stars skaters should be skating 1-2 times per week. Although the CanSkate program is not a requirement in the Future Stars program, adding a weekly CanSkate program for skaters at the Stage 4 and 5 level is recommended.
The above recommendations will aid each skater to develop at their fastest rate possible. Skating additional days per week or extending your skating season allows skaters to absorb their lesson content and apply it sooner resulting in better retention and increased rate of improvement.
How does the Future Stars program differ from the CanSkate program?
The Future Stars program is an introduction to figure skating. Skaters are still working on some of their CanSkate levels. The Future Stars session is a coach-led group lesson format where skaters continue to develop their CanSkate skills while learning figure skating skills.
STAR Group FAQ
.
Is skating experience required to register for the STAR Group program?
Yes, skaters must have completed the CanSkate program (or equivalent) to participate in the Star Group program.
The STAR Group program is the entry level of the STARSkate program. Skaters in this program are at the STAR 1 level.
What do the STAR Group program registration fees cover?
The STAR Group program is an 50 minute session. All 50 minutes are coach-led group lessons.
The registration fees cover the coaching fees for the group lessons and the ice time.
Is a private coach required for the STAR Group program?
No, you do not need a private coach in the STAR Group program. However, adding private lessons can benefit your skater and increase their progress.
Why private lessons?
Private lessons provide the skaters with more one on one attention allowing for lessons to be focused on the specific skills they need to improve and helps increase the rate of progress.
Private, Semi-Private or Small Group Private lessons are being offered during all our STAR Group sessions. Private lessons are usually sold in 10-15-minute time slots.
How do I get a private coach for my skater?
Choosing a coach can seem like a daunting task at first but it can be made easier with the following tips:
1. Does your skater already enjoy working with one of the Future Stars group coaches in particular?
2. Watch a few sessions and see how the coaches interact with their skaters to see what style might best fit your skater
3. We also offer free trial lessons where skaters can try out private lessons with one or more of the available coaches to see what the best fit for you and your skater.
How do I set up a free trial private lesson for my skater?
To set up trial lessons please contact the Rideau SC Coaching Team at coaches@rideauskating.ca to make the arrangements.
How much do private lessons cost and how do I pay?
Coaching rates vary depending the coaches experience and certification. Charges for a 10-minute lesson will range from $6.00-$9.00 depending on the coach you choose to work with. The rates are based on the experience and certification level of the coach. Private lesson fees are invoiced directly to you by the coach you are working with usually bi-weekly or monthly depending on the coach’s preference.
Please note coach availability also varies so you will want to check with the coach you choose to confirm they have lesson time available at your preferred session.
How many times a week should my skater be skating?
STAR Group skaters should be skating 1-2 times per week.
The above recommendations will aid each skater to develop at their fastest rate possible. Skating additional days per week or extending your skating season allows skaters to absorb their lesson content and apply it sooner resulting in better retention and increased rate of improvement.
How does the STAR Group program differ from the Future Stars program?
The STAR Group program is the entry level to the STARSkate program. Skaters will have the benefit of group lessons as well as having time to work on their own. Skaters can transition between a fully coach-led group program (Future Stars) and the STAR 1 to 5 program where they work on their own and/or with a coach in a private lesson format.
Both the Future Stars program and the STAR Group program have a 50 minutes of coach-led group lessons.
The STAR Group program focuses on the learning and development of the STAR 1 level skating elements - freeskate, ice dance, skills, and synchronized skating.
STAR 1 to 5 FAQ
.
What is the STAR 1 to 5 program all about?
STAR 1 to 5 offers a solid development pathway for skaters who are entering a figure skating program for the first time.
Skaters will be introduced to the sport of figure skating and its disciplines: Freeskate, Skating Skills, Ice Dance, Artistic, and Synchronized Skating.
The STAR 1-5 program is designed to encourage skaters and coaches to strive for the highest quality of skill execution and acquisition. A strong foundation at this level will enable skaters to progress more quickly in the higher levels of figure skating and be ready for the next level of skills. This philosophy is reinforced by encouraging skaters to achieve the “Pass with Honours” designation on their assessments, as well as achieving “Gold” status on their performances at events.
As in CanSkate, many skills in the STAR 1-5 program will be introduced early to allow coaches to work with skaters on developing these skills over time. Many skills in skating are complex. Introducing these skills early will enable coaches to hone and develop the skaters’ technique over time. This will allow the skaters to have sufficient practice of the skill before it is required in our sport. Be mindful that many of these skills are not expected to be performed at an advanced level, but rather at a level that is in development.
Create a Better Bridge from CanSkate to Figure Skating
The entry level of STAR 1 is designed to meet the exit level of Stage 6 in CanSkate. It is imperative that all skaters beginning STAR 1 have the skills of Stages 5 and 6 in CanSkate. STAR 1 Skills and STAR 1 Freeskate are designed to be achieved within three to nine months of exiting CanSkate. The remainder of the STAR 1-5 program is designed to assist the skater’s development in a progressive manner. Skaters may move through the STAR program at their own pace per discipline. For example: A skater may be working on STAR 3 Skills, STAR 1 Dance and STAR 2 Freeskate.
Is skating experience required to register for STAR 1 to 5?
Yes, skaters must have completed the CanSkate program (or equivalent) to participate in the STAR 1 to 5 program.
What do the STAR 1 to 5 registration fees cover?
The registration fees cover the cost of ice time. Private lessons, semi-private lessons or small group lessons with a coach are not covered in the registration fees.
Is a private coach required for STAR 1 to 5?
Yes, a private coach is required. If a skater wants lessons, a skating program (solo), to be assessed for STAR 1-5 assessments, or to take part in a competition, a private coach is needed.
Why private lessons?
Private lessons provide the skaters with more one on one attention allowing for lessons to be focused on the specific skills they need to improve and helps increase the rate of progress.
Private, semi-private or small group private lessons are offered by all of our coaches. Private lessons are usually sold in 10-15-minute time slots.
How do I get a private coach for my skater?
Choosing a coach can seem like a daunting task at first but it can be made easier with the following tips:
1. Does your skater already enjoy working with one of the coaches from another program in particular?
2. Watch a few sessions and see how the coaches interact with their skaters to see what style might best fit your skater
3. We also offer free trial lessons where skaters can try out private lessons with one or more of the available coaches to see what the best fit for you and your skater.
How do I set up a free trial private lesson for my skater?
To set up trial lessons please contact the Rideau SC Coaching Team at coaches@rideauskating.ca to make the arrangements.
How much do private lessons cost and how do I pay?
Coaching rates vary depending the coaches experience and certification. Charges for a 10-minute lesson will range from $6.00-$9.00 depending on the coach you choose to work with. The rates are based on the experience and certification level of the coach. Private lesson fees are invoiced directly to you by the coach you are working with usually bi-weekly or monthly depending on the coach’s preference.
Please note coach availability also varies so you will want to check with the coach you choose to confirm they have lesson time available at your preferred session.
How many times a week should my skater be skating?
It is recommended that:
STAR 1 and STAR 2 skaters skate 1-2 times per week.
STAR 3 and STAR 4 skaters skate 2-3 times per week
STAR 5 skaters skate 3-4 times per week.
The above recommendations will aid each skater to develop at their fastest rate possible. Skating additional days per week or extending your skating season allows skaters to absorb their lesson content and apply it sooner resulting in better retention and increased rate of improvement.
How does STAR 1 to 5 differ from the STAR Group program?
The STAR Group program is the entry level to the STAR 1 to 5 program. Skaters will have the benefit of group lessons. Skaters can transition between a fully coach-led group program (Future Stars) to STAR Group and then to the STAR 1 to 5 program where they work on their own and/or with a coach in a private lesson format.
Skaters in STAR 1 to 5, when not working in lessons with a coach, are expected to work on their own. As skaters advance in the STAR 1 to 5 levels a training competency is developed. Skaters at the entry levels of STAR 1 to 5 (STAR 1, 2, 3) often work in small group settings with their coach(es) until the training competency is developed.
How do skaters move to the next level in STARSkate?
Skaters move to the next level of STARSkate by completing STARSkate assessments. Your skaters' coach will guide you through the assessment process and let you know when they are ready to be assessed. Feel free to speak to your skaters' coach outside of their on ice time if you would like to know more about your skaters progress and the assessment process.
How will I know when my skater is ready to be assessed?
Your coach will let you know when your skater is ready to be assessed and they will let you know which STAR Assessment you need to purchase online.
Are there assessments for all levels of STAR 1 to 5?
Yes, all levels of STAR 1 to 5 are assessed. Skaters are assessed in the five skating disciplines: Free Skating, Skating Skills, Ice Dance, Artistic (STAR 5) and Synchronized Skating (STAR 1, 2, 3 only). Skaters may move at different rates through the discipline assessments as they develop. For example - skater A may be at Star 4 for Ice Dance, Star 3 for Skating Skills and Star 2 for Free Skating.
How are the skater assessments done?
For the STAR 1 to 5 levels, the assessments are done by the coach during a regular session time.
Your coach will notify you that your skater is ready for an assessment. The assessment must be purchased prior to assessment being conducted. Assessments are purchased online in Products.
Once the agreed upon date/time is established, the coach will conduct the assessment during a regular training session. Your skater will be provided with the assessment results at the completion of the assessment.
STAR 6 to Gold FAQ
.
Is skating experience required to register for STAR 6 to Gold?
Yes. Skaters in STAR 6 to Gold are usually more experienced figure skaters and are confident working on their own.
What do the STAR 6 to Gold registration fees cover?
The registration fees cover the cost of ice time. Private lessons, semi-private lessons or small group lessons with a coach are not covered in the registration fees.
Is a private coach required for STAR 6 to Gold?
Yes, a private coach is required. If a skater wants lessons, a skating program (solo), to be assessed for STAR 6 to Gold assessments, or to take part in a competition, a private coach is needed.
Why private lessons?
Private lessons provide the skaters with more one on one attention allowing for lessons to be focused on the specific skills they need to improve and helps increase the rate of progress.
Private, semi-private or small group private lessons are offered by all of our coaches. Private lessons are usually sold in 10-15-minute time slots.
How do I get a private coach for my skater?
Choosing a coach can seem like a daunting task at first but it can be made easier with the following tips:
1. Does your skater already enjoy working with one of the coaches from another program in particular?
2. Watch a few sessions and see how the coaches interact with their skaters to see what style might best fit your skater
3. We also offer free trial lessons where skaters can try out private lessons with one or more of the available coaches to see what the best fit for you and your skater.
How do I set up a free trial private lesson for my skater?
To set up trial lessons please contact the Rideau SC Coaching Team at coaches@rideauskating.ca to make the arrangements.
How much do private lessons cost and how do I pay?
Coaching rates vary depending the coaches experience and certification. Charges for a 10-minute lesson will range from $6.00-$9.00 depending on the coach you choose to work with. The rates are based on the experience and certification level of the coach. Private lesson fees are invoiced directly to you by the coach you are working with usually bi-weekly or monthly depending on the coach’s preference.
Please note coach availability also varies so you will want to check with the coach you choose to confirm they have lesson time available at your preferred session.
How many times a week should my skater be skating?
It is recommended that skaters in STAR 6 and higher skate 3-4 times per week.
The above recommendations will aid each skater to develop at their fastest rate possible. Skating additional days per week or extending your skating season allows skaters to absorb their lesson content and apply it sooner resulting in better retention and increased rate of improvement.
How does STAR 6 to Gold differ from the STAR 1 to 5 program?
The STAR 1 to 5 program has components of group, coach-directed lessons and individual practice time.
Skaters in STAR 6 to Gold are usually more experienced figure skaters and are confident working on their own. Coaches may continue to work in a small group lesson format depending on skater arrangements.
How do skaters move to the next level in STARSkate?
Skaters move to the next level of STARSkate by completing STARSkate assessments. Your skaters' coach will guide you through the assessment process and let you know when they are ready to be assessed. Feel free to speak to your skaters' coach outside of their on ice time if you would like to know more about your skaters progress and the assessment process.
How will I know when my skater is ready to be assessed?
Your coach will let you know when your skater is ready to be assessed. For in-club assessment day, the assessments will be purchased online. For out-of-club assessments, payments for the assessments are determined by the host club.
Are there assessments for all levels of STAR 6 to Gold?
Yes, all levels of STAR 6 to Gold are assessed. Skaters are assessed in four skating disciplines: Free Skating, Skating Skills, Ice Dance, and Artistic (Star 7, 9, and Gold only). Skaters may move at different rates through the discipline assessments as they develop. For example - skater A may be at Star 7 for Ice Dance, Star 6 for Skating Skills and Star 8 for Free Skating.
How are the skater assessments done?
For STAR 6 to Gold levels, the assessments are done by an external assessor on a designated club assessment day.
STAR 6 to Gold Skating Skills (only) may be assessed on a regular skating session by an assessor-coach.