F.A.Q
Q: Do you need a learn to skate (LTS) membership?
A: Yes, each skater needs their own learn to skate membership. The LTS membership is valid from July 1st through June 30th. This membership is renewable each season.
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Q: What do you wear to skating?
A: We encourage our skaters to wear athletic apparel that is not baggy. We suggest layers such as a long- sleeved shirt and warm jacket. Clothing items to avoid include jeans, thick snow pants and thick snow jackets. Clothing items like these can hinder movement and range of motion on the ice. Long hair should be pulled back and out of the face. Don't forget gloves :)
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Q: Are helmets required?
A: Helmet use is required for skaters in Snowplow Sam. Helmets use is not discouraged for anyone. The Iceplex has helmets to lend, if you'd like to bring your own we recommend the ski/snowboard helmets.
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Q: Where do you go and what to do when you arrive at the Great Falls Iceplex?
A: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to class to check in and rent* your skates. We have found that new skaters are more successful in figure skates at first. This is because of the greater surface area of the blade on which to balance. Enter through the main doors closest to skate rental. You will check in at the LTS table and obtain you name badge. We will have the use of locker room 3 and 4 next to skate rental as a skate staging area. Please keep your skates on the black mats. Snowplow Sam 1-4, Basic 1 and Adult 1 will always start week 1 off of the ice. When you check in, you will be directed where to go.
* rental skates are offer $5 per visit. Talk to us if your interested in getting your own skates.
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Q: What is Learn to Skate (LTS)
A: Learn to skate are classes that teach the foundations for all ice sports ie; hockey, speed skating and figure skating.
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Q: What class do you sign up for?
A: Skaters age 4-6 are in Snowplow Sam 1-4. Skaters 7-18 are in Basic Skills 1-6. Skaters 18 and older are in Adult 1-6.
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Q: Refunds and missed classes.
A: We have a "no refund" policy. If you miss a class, make ups will only be allowed if you let us know in advanced (more than 12 hours) and you have skating director approval. If you miss a session, we can hold your credit to be used in a future session.
contact: gffigureskatingclub@gmail.com
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Q: Cancelled classes?
A: We generally do not cancel classes for weather. Should a class be cancelled an e-mail will be sent out immediately and a post made to our Facebook page.
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Q: Can you just pay for one class at a time?
A: Walk-ons are on a case by case basis. This requires director approval.
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Q: What is the skater to coach ratio? How many levels are in my class?
A: We do the best to keep our class ratio to a 1:10, 1 instructor to 10 skaters. We do have assistants for the beginner levels of skating. Depending on your skaters level, sometimes the class will be a combined class ie: basic 3 and 4.
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Q: What happens if you or your skater passes basic 6 or adult 6? What is next?
A: Skaters who graduate the basic skills curriculum move on to the freeskate curriculum. Skater who graduate adult 6 are encouraged to take basic 5 and 6 and then they move on to the freeskate curriculum.
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Q: Can you compete?
A: YES, skaters of all ages and abilities are allowed to compete. You are never too young, too old or not good enough. We host a competition at the Great Falls Iceplex in the spring which is a great place to start.
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Q: What is club ice and freestyle ice? Can you skate on it?
A: Club ice is purchased by the GFFSC and is open to all skaters in our LTS program and club members. Club ice is a time for skaters to interdependently practice the skills they have learned in class. Freestyle ice is similar to club ice but is provided by the Iceplex. If a skater is interested in practicing and doing more than just classes, we recommend taking a look at the Bridge to the Falls program which is offered monthly.
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Q: Can you take private lessons?
A: Yes of course! Please contact us and we will help get you started.
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