Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after your skater completes the final level of Learn to Skate?

Below you will find several FAQ's to help answer that question!  

Advanced Ice

How often should my child skate per week?

This decision should be discussed with you and your coach. There are 2 main factors to consider:

1. Cost - Each time your child skates on Advanced Ice, there is an ice time fee that will be paid to the club. 
2. Skating goal - Is your skater a recreational skater or competitive skater? A recreational skater may skate just once a week but a competitive skater can skate anywhere from 3 days a week to twice a day. 

This should be discussed with your private coach as they will help you make the best decision for you and/or your child. 

To become members and pursue figure skating, what is the total cost?

This answer can vary greatly depending on your level of involvement. The following is a list of costs to consider:

• MCFSC membership dues - paid annually 
• Ice time - paid ahead of time for an entire session (in the same way you pay for Learn to Skate classes) or paid as a "walk-on" 
• Private lessons
• Testing fees - a skater typically tests 1-3 times a year
• Equipment:
  • figure skates
  • performance wear
  • practice wear
• The following fees are for competitive figure skaters only:
  • Off-ice training - ballet, yoga, strength training, conditioning, etc. 
  • Competition entry fees
  • Competition event fees
  • Competition travel fees - cost varies greatly depending on the location of the competition 

As you can see, each skater's total cost is completely customizable to their own budget and goals.  

What should I or my child wear while practicing?

• Gloves 
• Helmet
• Hat
• Warm and nonrestrictive jacket 
• Stretch pants (Under Armor, Danskin, Lululemon, Target, etc.) or skating tights and a dress

What kind of skates should I buy?

A new pair of beginner skates can be purchased for about $100. Be sure to look for ankle support!  

As your child begins jumping and learning more difficult moves, they will need a stiffer boot. These skates can start to get expensive but previously owned skates are an option for skaters that are still growing. They are a fraction of the cost of their new equivalent, and your skater will undoubtedly outgrow these skates before they wear out.

Talk to your child’s coach about the type of skates he or she needs and whether there might be someone they know of who has a used pair in your child’s size.

Want more information about skating on advanced ice?

Visit the member's portion of our website! You can also check out the United States Figure Skating Association pipeline:

This outlines the levels for each figure skating discipline that you or your child can learn when skating with the MCFSC. 

How can a parent get involved in the club? 

We are always looking for more volunteers and would love to have you involved! No previous knowledge about figure skating is required in order to begin. Here are 2 ways to get started: 

1. Visit our committee's page and read through the various volunteer options we have available. Contact the head of the committee that most interests you!
2. Contact a current board member to find out what positions need to be filled. 

By contacting a current member, they will also be able to introduce you to other parents like you!

Private Lessons

When can I or my child begin private lessons?

There is no level requirement for private lessons! You or your child can begin at any time.  

When are private lessons given?

Private lessons are given at Maysa Arena during our advanced skating sessions. 

How much does a coach charge for one private lesson?

Each coach charges a different fee that depends on their experience and credentials. The individual fees can be found on the coaches page. 

How long does a private lesson last?

Most lessons occur between 15 - 60 minutes. A beginner usually has a 15-minute lesson.

How often should my child have a lesson?

There are 3 main factors to consider:

1. Level of the skater
2. Age of the skater
3. Goals of the skater

This should be discussed with your private coach as they will help you make the best decision for you and/or your child. 

Hiring a Coach

What are the benefits of hiring a coach?

1. Your child will progress at a faster rate
2. Individualized instruction geared to your child’s learning style and personality
3. Preparation for skating competitions

How do I set up private lessons with a coach?

You may approach any of the coaches directly or you can contact them through the coaches page. 

How do I choose a skating coach?

Here are a list of questions to consider before hiring a coach:

• What are my child’s skating goals?
• How often can my child skate?
• How much can we budget toward ice time and private lesson time?
• Does the skater have a favorite teacher from Learn to Skate?
• Does this coach’s personality and teaching methods match the skater’s individual instructional needs?

What should I ask a prospective coach?

Here is a list of questions to consider asking:

• What is your coaching experience?
• What is your hourly coaching rate?
• How is payment made?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• How often would my child need lessons?
• What is your skating experience?

If you would like more information on a certain coach, please visit our Coach's page for more information.

Figure Skating Competitions

When can I or my child begin competing?

There are competitions at all skill levels for figure skaters. Your coach can help you decide when your child is ready.

Is hiring a coach required to participate in a competition?

Yes, private coaches are required.  

How do I prepare for a competition?

You or your child will need a skating routine to perform at the competition:

• Known as a "program"
• Planned out and choreographed by your coach
• Incorporates required elements for your or your child's level
• Music is usually required, although certain beginning levels do not; your coach will help you find the right music (if any)

Leading up to the competition, here is what you need to know:

• Your coach will provide you with a competition sign-up form
• Your coach will assist you in choosing the correct events 
• There is an entry fee for each competition
• Your coach will provide you with information on when to arrive and what to bring