Browser Cookies
This site uses cookies necessary to properly function. By closing this popup, clicking a link or continuing to browse otherwise, you agree to the use of cookies. View our policies.


                     

                    TURNING WOBBLES INTO WINS!

                    What is STARSkate:

                     

                    Program Overview: STARSkate is a comprehensive program that teaches skaters figure skating skills across 5 key disciplines. This structured approach ensures that skaters develop a wide range of abilities, providing a strong foundation for future success in the sport in either recreational or competitive training. The STARSkate program bridges the Podium Pathway, paving the way for competitive achievements and personal growth.

                     

                    Disciplines Discipline Summary
                    Skating Skills Focuses on fundamental skating movements, emphasizing edges, turns, exercises, and field moves. These skills are the foundation of all other disciplines, with 11 skills assessments to measure progress.
                    Ice Dance Involves 21 compulsory dances that teach timing, musicality, rhythm, edges, flow, control, and unison. There are 12 levels of dance assessments, including pairs ice dance.
                    FreeSkate Encompasses the execution of jumps, spins, field movements, and step sequences, either in isolation or within a program set to music. There are 20 Freeskate assessments (10 elements and 10 programs), covering both singles and pairs.
                    Artistic Combines turns, edges, and field moves with creative spins, focusing on program components, musical movement, and creativity. There are 4 artistic program assessments (STAR 5, 7, 9, and gold). Note: Skaters must have STAR 4 skills before entering STAR 5 Artistic.
                    Synchronized Skating

                    Involves groups of 8 or more skaters performing various group formations and maneuvers as one unit, executing circles, blocks, lines, wheels, and intersections to music. There are 3 synchro assessments (STAR 2, 3, 4), which must be done in a group.

                     

                    Foundation Programs: Our STAR 1 and STAR 2-3 programs are designed to provide skaters with the skills necessary for a strong foundation in figure skating. These initial stages focus on developing core abilities that are essential for all figure skating disciplines.

                    Adaptive Skating:

                    Our STAR program is inclusive and welcoming to skaters of all abilities. We proudly support athletes with cognitive and physical disabilities or impairments who can participate in Special Olympics in either recreational or competitive skating. The program is designed to accommodate individual needs, ensuring every skater can develop their skills in a supportive environment. The STAR 1-5 programs are all open to adaptive skaters, with elements tailored to their unique needs. Our coaches are experienced in working with athletes of varying abilities, and we strive to create a positive and encouraging atmosphere for all participants. 

                    Through Adaptive Skating, athletes develop sports skills, social skills, and self-esteem to assist them in becoming an involved member of the community. It promotes an active lifestyle and quality of life for persons with intellectual disabilities through participation in sports.

                    Adaptive STAR Skaters have the opportunity to compete in certain competitions. For more details visit the Special Olympics Competitions Page.

                    What Comes After STAR 2-3?

                    After completing the STAR 2-3 program, you will need to contact one of our coaches to arrange private or semi-private lessons for your skater. Here’s what you can expect:

                    • Private and Team Coaching: Coaches offer both private and team coaching sessions, providing skaters with personalized or group training to enhance their skills. Coaches have their own lesson rates and availability, which vary depending on the number of skaters they are working with. Please see our "Meet our Coaches" page for a list of ESPSC's coaches. 

                    • STAR Testing Program: Consists of 5 disciplines: FreeSkate, Skills, Dance, Artistic, and Synchro. Most STAR skaters focus on FreeSkate, Skills, and Dance.

                      • Assessments: Each level within FreeSkate, Skills, and Dance requires at least one test before the skater can advance to the next STAR level. Artistic and Synchro disciplines have specific STAR levels at which they are assessed. Please note that there is an assessment fee associated with these tests for more information, visit our Fee Information Page.

                    Please see below for information on what each level assesses:

                    STAR 1-Gold Overview Chart

                    The STARSkate program offers a structured and supportive environment for skaters to develop their skills across multiple disciplines, preparing them for higher levels of competition and personal achievement. Join us and watch your skater shine! ⛸️✨

                    Please see our STARSkate handbook here:

                    ESPSC STARSkate Handbook

                    To watch examples on how to perform the skills, check out the specific discipline (Skills, FreeSkate Elements, FreeSkate Program, Dance, Artistic, Synchro) and STAR level on the: Skate Canada Development Video Library 

                    For examples of equipment, how to wear it, and recommendations refer to our Equipment Information playlist!

                    • Sharpening: It is recommended that figure skates be sharpened at a local figure skate-specific sharpener. Most retail sharpeners are not trained in the specifics of figure skate blades. Please discuss this with your club coach for further details. The prices at the local sharpener recommended by club coaches are $15 for most blades and $18 for stainless steel blades.

                      • When to Sharpen Skates: It is recommended that skates be sharpened approximately every 15-20 hours of skating. 

                    STAR Skaters have the opportunity to compete in certain competitions. For more details visit the STAR Skate Competitions Page.

                     

                      Sessions per week Working on  Coach directed time
                    STAR 1 Minimum 1 or more sessions (1.5 hours) a week Skaters at this level are typically landing waltz-jump, toe loop, and salchow 75% of ice time 
                    STAR 2-3 Minimum 2 or more sessions (4 hours) a week Skaters at this level are typically landing loop, flip, lutz, and starting axels 50-75% of ice time 
                    STAR 4+ & Podium Pathway Minimum 4 or more sessions (8 hours) a week Skaters at this level are typically landing axels and working on/landing doubles 25-50% of ice time