STAR 2 - 3:

ESPSC's STAR 2-3 program is a comprehensive 2.25-hour on-ice program held at East St. Paul Arena during the Fall and Winter Sessions. Classes are offered twice a week, aligning with Skate Canada and Sport Canada's Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model. Skaters can choose to skate once a week but are encouraged to attend both sessions for optimal development.

Program Details:

• Location: East St. Paul Arena (Fall/Winter Session)

• Schedule: Sunday or Thursday, 2.25-hour sessions (Fall/Winter Session)

• Participation: Skaters can opt to skate once a week but are encouraged to attend both sessions

On-Ice Instruction: Skaters receive guidance from our NCCP-certified coaches covering various elements of figure skating, including:

• Ice Dance

• Skating Skills

• Free Skating (Jumping and Spinning)

• Synchronized Skating

Group Lessons: Lessons are offered in a group setting, providing skaters with the opportunity to learn and practice alongside their peers.

• TEC: In the final 15 minutes of our STAR Skate session, all STAR 2+ Skaters come together to refine their skills with a focus on Turns, Edges, Conditioning, and Improv to elevate their skating performance. 

  • Private lessons are not to be taught on TEC as all skaters have paid for and are expected to participate in the TEC class.

Testing and Progression: Skaters continue their STAR testing journey in this program, progressing through the STAR 2-3 assessments in Freeskate, Dance, and Skills. This structured approach helps skaters build on their foundation and advance through the levels systematically. Please note that there is an assessment fee associated with these tests for more information, visit our Fee Information Page.

Eligibility: To join the STAR 2-3 class, skaters must have completed at least one level of STAR 1 testing (in Dance, Skills, or Freeskate) or be recommended by a coach.

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 Skating Competition:

Special Olympics Skating offers the opportunity for athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities to compete at invitational, interclub, and international competitions.

• SINGLES: Level 1 - 6
• DANCE (Solo & Pattern Ice Dance): Level 1 - 6
• Pairs FreeSkate: Level 1 - 3
• Adult Singles: Master 1/2 - 3/4

For detailed competition information, please refer to the Special Olympics Competition Page.

Fees:

• Ice Fees: Included in the program registration fee

• Coaching Fees: Divided among the registered skaters and invoiced by the coach at the end of each month

• Assessment Fees: STAR assessment fee is paid at the time of testing for every assessment.

• Competition Fees: Skate Canada has a fee for each event (Programs, Elements, Improv, Team, etc.). Additionally, there is a coaching fee for the time spent with the skater at the event, which varies per coach. This fee can include charges for time, mileage, hotels, meals, etc., depending on what the coach charges for.

Join us and take the first step toward your skating dreams! ⛸️✨

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

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

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

STAR 2 - 3 Competition:

STAR Skate offers skaters the opportunity to compete at invitational and interclub competitions.

• Elements: STAR 2, 3
• Programs: STAR 2, 3
• Showcase: Level 1
• Team Events: STAR 2, 3
• Improv: Level 1
• Ice Dance Pairs: STAR 2, 3
• Ice Dance Solo: STAR 2, 3
• Pairs FreeSkate: STAR 3
• Synchro: STAR 3

Participating in STAR Skate competitions provides skaters with valuable experience and recognition, helping them grow and excel in their skating journey. ⛸️✨

For more information visit STAR Skate Competitions Page.

Competition Requirements