Before The Learn to Skate Lessons

 



Learn to Skate!

Welcome, Skaters, to the Joy of Skating

Sycamore ISC offers beginning skating lessons to both club members and the general public during our skating season.  We teach all ages, all levels, aspiring figure skaters, beginning hockey skaters, and those wanting to just skate for fun and fitness.  Letters are sent out in the fall to families who participated in the last session of the previous season, as well as publicity provided in local school newsletters and the local newspapers for Perry Township/Beech Grove, Greenwood, Center Grove, Franklin and others to announce the registration dates for the fall session.  Watch for the annual lesson information released in late August or early September, announcing the coming season.  (Specific dates and cost information can be found under "registration" in our website.)

 

If you are joining us for group lessons, here are some tips and guidelines for you to read through...

We are excited that you have chosen Sycamore Ice Skating Club for your Learn to Skate lessons. All our coaches and members look forward to meeting and helping you with any questions that you may have. For those of you who are new to the world of skating, here are some tips to help enjoy your time at the ice rink.

  1. Arrive 15-20 minutes prior to your scheduled lesson time to:   
    • rent and lace up skates (be picky about the skates they hand you!  Ask for a different pair if they give you old, broken down skates.  They do have newer ones, and they have sharper blades!)
    • sign in at the table
    • be ready to step on the ice when your lesson is called
    • check the club LTS bulletin board for class info, news items, and other announcements to be communicated

  2. If you plan to be absent, please let us know in advance if possible. Make-up lessons may be conducted the last week of the session if time and coaches are available, and classes would need to be scheduled in advance at the sign-up table.  

  3. Suggestions to stay comfortable and warm while on the ice:
    • WEAR GLOVES!  Not only does it keep your hands warm, it also prevents ice burn should you fall and scrap your hands across the ice.
    • Wear socks which fit comfortably and snugly.  Socks with lumps, holes, oversized, or "slouch" socks often cause blisters, so we recommend a thinner sock, similar to a trouser sock or leotard.
    • Comfortable jackets, wind-suits, snow-pants are all fine.  You may want to layer your clothes so you do not get over-heated.
    • DO NOT wear long scarves as you may get tangled in it, or fall over them.
    • Hats and/or helmets (like the bicycle or in-line skating helmets) are also acceptable if you choose to wear one.  They just need to fit properly to stay on and allow visual contact with the instructor and other skaters.
     
  4. Information on how to choose skates varies by coach, but generally:
    • Choose skates which fit snug in the heel, but allow the toes to "wiggle" easily.  Start with your shoe size, but don't be surprised if you go down a size, especially with adults.
    • Often times rental skates are broken down in the ankle. Request different skates if needed (broken down, dull - don't be bashful!). A good and proper fit of equipment is very important in learning to ice skate.
    • Lace skates snugly from toe to ankle, then cross the laces and continue up the skate leaving "ease" so the ankle can bend easily.
    • If you are having difficulty, please discuss with your coach, or seek out a SISC member for help.
     
  5. If you enjoy skating and plan to purchase skates, please seek information from your coach before purchasing!  Each coach and skater have different opinions on skate brands, but all agree that the purchase of a good quality used skate is much better than a new cheaply made skate.  Many of our members have good quality used skates for sale.  Check at the club table for more information.  

 

SNOWPLOW SAM says, "HAVE FUN, SKATE WELL, AND PLAY FAIR!"

          • Skate for fun and for yourself. Set goals for your own improvement
          • Winning is doing your best.
          • Play by the rules. Do the RIGHT thing.
          • Cooperate with your coach, other skaters, and staff.
          • Be nice to everyone, no matter the outcome.
          • Treat all skaters as you would like to be treated.
          • Set a good example for younger, less experienced skaters.
          • Goals: have fun, build skills and personal discipline.
          • Maintain a positive attitude; help others to see their strengths.