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Ice Etiquette Guidelines for Skaters, Parents and Coaches

Skaters and parents please read this information carefully. Your co-operation will help with the smooth operation of the on-ice sessions and will benefit all skaters involved.

Right of Way on the Ice:

• Skaters in a lesson and having music played have priority.
• Following this, skaters having music played have the right of way.
• Skaters skating to the music and/or in a lesson should let other skaters know they are approaching and say EXCUSE ME in a polite, strong voice.
• Courtesy and good sportsmanship to coaches and fellow skaters is expected at all times. If you get in another skater’s way please be polite & apologize.
• Coaches should coach from the boards unless they are skating.
• Skaters in a cross-discipline lesson do not have the right of way and must watch for skaters practicing free skate (jumps, spins, solos).
• If you fall, get up immediately.
• No food, gum chewing, Kleenex or drinks are allowed at board side or on the ice.
• Skaters are asked not to stand at the boards socializing. If you wish to talk or take a break please leave the ice surface.
• Put garbage in the containers provided.
• No swearing, inappropriate language, board kicking, tag, racing or other inappropriate behavior will be tolerated on the ice or in the dressing room.
• All skaters respect each other on the ice! Older skaters remember you were young once too, be tolerant and be a role model. Younger skaters, be aware of what is happening on the ice and specifically what is happening around you.

Free Skate:

• Skaters must watch for skaters in a lesson or skating to their music.
• Spins are to be practiced in the centre of the rink.
• Jumps are to be practiced in the corners and length of the rink.

Music Playing/Requests:

• Each coach is entitled to one request per lesson. If there are no other requests (from skaters or coaches) additional requests are permitted.
• Skaters will have their music played in order of request (coach, skaters, coach etc.).
• A solo rotation system will be established in order that all skaters have the opportunity to have their music played during the session.
• Solos will not be replayed or restarted until everyone in line has had their music once.
• If time permits skaters may have their music played again.
• For the safety of the skaters, all music being played must be announced

Arena Rules:

• Skates are not permitted to be worn in the stands.
• Use dressing rooms as assigned.
• Do not step onto the ice while the zamboni doors remain open.

The Three Way Partnership

Role of the Skater:

• Be committed to being an athlete.
• Arrive on time, complete off-ice warm-up and be ready to train.
• Always be supportive of your fellow skaters.
• Dress appropriately (hair tied back and wearing proper skating attire).
• Clear the ice promptly at the end of the session in order for the zamboni to resurface the ice and stay on schedule.
• Pick up all personal items from the boards.

Role of the Coach:

• Remember you are here for the skaters.
• Be a positive role model at the rink.
• Follow the coaches’ Code of Ethics.
• Communicate with your skaters and parents regularly.

Role of the Parent:

• Love your child and support their desires.
• Be realistic about his/her ability.
• Allow the skater to train on the ice without interruptions. No Coaching from the stands, boards or ice surface doors.
Communicate with the coach, ask questions and be sure you understand the commitment involved.
• Be supportive of all coaches and skaters.
• Offer positive encouragement, rather than criticism.
• Be a person your child can be proud of.
• Do not live your dreams through your child.
• In consultation with the coach, set realistic goals.