When can I start classes?

Our Skating Academy runs all year!  Our Basic 1, Tots and Adult Classes are designed to take new students each week and you can start at any time!  We assume that you have never been on the ice before.   The first day you should arrive about 30 min. before class to fill out the enrollment form and make payment.  You will then receive a punch card to keep track of your classes.  The hardest thing about learning to skate is getting the skates on correctly the first time.  Your instructor will be happy to assist you.

I know it's cool inside. How should I dress for skate school classes?

We recommend that you dress in comfortable warm clothing. Sweaters and track suits are ideal because they keep you warm and you can still move around. Gloves make it more comfortable especially for young children. Jeans are cold and hard to move around in. Don't wear socks that are too thick and don't wear two pairs of sock.  This will cause blisters.

I don't own skates.  What do I do?

Most students start off with rental skates.  We highly recommend that you purchase your own skates as soon as possible.  You will progress faster and get more enjoyment out of your skating.  Make sure that you ask your Skating Academy Instructor about what brand and model is right for your ability and weight.  The KIA Proshop carries the recommended brands of skates that are right for figure skating or hockey.

How do I get a certificate and patches for the class level I am enrolling in?

Your Group Class Instructor will test and promote you when you are able to accomplish the skills for your class level. The average time for each test level is about 8 weeks, but some levels will take longer. Please stop your instructor at any time before or after class if you feel that you would like to be evaluated. You may also contact  Skating Program Director, Kent Johnson for more information about testing.  Certificates are free of charge and patches are $2.00. TESTS MUST BE COMPLETED DURING THE TIME OF ENROLLMENT.

Can I take classes more than once a week?

Yes, you sign up for a regular class time and day, but you can take extra classes on any day where your class level is scheduled. Most students will take just one class per week, but you can take more classes per week if you want to progress faster or if you want to take a make up class. To get the most out of your classes you should be as consistent as possible.

Will "Learn To Skate" classes teach me to figure skate?

Yes, USFS Basic Skills is designed to teach you the basics in a fun systematic way. Stick with the program and you will soon be jumping and spinning! Kendall Ice Arena has Ice Shows and Competitions planned throughout the year for skaters of all ages and ability levels.

I don't know how to skate. How do I get into the ice hockey program?

Kendall Ice Arena has a great Pre Hockey Program designed to teach you the basics of the game, stick and puck handling and more. You will need Hockey gear and be able to skate at a beginner level to participate in these classes. If you can't skate we recommend that you start out in our great "Learn to Skate Classes". They cover forward and backward skating, stopping, turning, crossovers, etc. You, can be evaluated by our Hockey Director at any time and switched over to the Pre Hockey Program when you have your "feet under you"!

When should I start Private Lessons?

Private lessons can be started at any time.  This can be for various reasons.  Usually you will get started with private lessons when you decide to try out one of our ice shows or Basic Skills Competitions.  You can approach your class instructor or any other instructor about private lessons or you can fill out a private lesson request form in the Skating Academy Office. You can also book a private "booster" lesson if you are having trouble with an element in your skate school class.