Learn to Skate Program
The MIRFSC uses the guidelines of the United States Figure Skating Association. Our season runs from late October through March. More information can be found at www.learntoskateusa.com The first stage of skills forms a strong foundation for your skaters to explore the world of skating. All will progress at their own pace working toward mastering each skill. Our program encourages skaters to trade in hesitation for excitement as they grow a love for skating. The FUNdamentals harness those skills as agility, balance, coordination and speed become the main focus of this curriculum.
SNOWPLOW SAM
Skaters who are 4 years old (as of October 1) begin at our Snowplow Sam class. Classes 30 minutes at begin at either 5:30 or 6:30 on Wednesday nights. Cost of this program is $90 for the season, Learn to Skate $25 membership fee, and $60 costume. Young skaters in Snowplow Sam are encouraged to wear a bicycle helmet and snow pants as they are learning to fall and get back up.
BASIC LEVELS 1 – Free Skate 1
New skaters that join our program that are 5 years old by October 1 begin at Level 1. (Skaters that were in Snowplow Sam the previous season and are 5 years old automatically join Level 1 the next season.) Skaters may register for our 5:30 or 6:30 classes on Wednesday nights. Skaters in Free Skate 1 have a volunteer requirement (Example: helping with Snowplow Sam class during the opposite session). The cost of this program is $180 for the season, Learn to Skate $25 membership fee, and $60 for a costume.
COMPETITION GROUP – 6:15-6:30 PM
Between our two Learn to Skate sessions, we will have a Competition Group opportunity for skaters who would like to compete at either of these competitions: Tomahawk Skate Classic, Badger State Games, Timberline Basic Skills, or the Hodag Skate Classic. Skaters will learn how to be prepared for competing in Basic Skill elements. The limit is 20 skaters. Skaters pay for their own registration fees, practice ice at competitions (optional) and coach’s fee to put the skater on ice at the competition ($10-$15). The competition group does not meet during Show Practice weeks.
Snowplow Sam to Basic 6 Elements (same skills they are working on during their classes.)
Aspire 1-4 Compulsory Moves (no music, performed on half ice, same skills they are working on during their classes.)
This opportunity does not include competing with a music program. Please contact a private coach from our website to arrange for music programs.
CROSSOVERS
This program is open to skaters in Levels 4 thru Free Skate 1. Classes meet on Sundays from 5:00 pm-6:00 pm at the MARC. The cost of Crossovers is $320 for the season which also includes the show costume. Crossover skaters will also be in the Opening Number of the show. (costume for Opening Number is show themed t-shirt)
ADVANCED CLASS
This program is open to skaters Free Skate 2 & higher. Visit our Advanced Skaters page for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is your question not answered below? Email mirfsc@gmail.com for help!
DO YOU OFFER ADULT SKATING LESSONS?
No, skaters must be 17 years old and younger. Please reach out individually to the Merrill Ice Reflection Figure Skating Club coaches to see about availability and their cost for private lessons.
WHAT LEVEL SHOULD I SIGN MY STUDENT UP FOR?
Snow Plow Sam- Ages 5 and Under – Beginning Skaters that are 4 years old will start in Snowplow Sam 1.As your student masters the very basics of skating, they will move through Snowplow Sam 2. The Snowplow Sam levels are designed to help the preschool-age skater develop preliminary coordination and strength to maneuver on the ice.
Basic 1- Ages 5 and up – Beginning Skaters that are 5 years old and older should start in the Basic 1 class. As your students master the basics of skating, they will move through more advanced levels reaching Basic 6. The “basic skills” are the fundamentals of the sport. These six levels of the program introduce the fundamental moves: Forward Skating, Backward Skating, Mohawks, Stops, Edges, and more! Upon completion of Basic 1-6, skaters will have a basic knowledge of the sport, enabling them to advance to more specialized areas of skating
Pre-Free Skate- Skaters that have passed Basic 6 class. Each free skate level is comprised of a variety of progressive skating skills, transitions, spins and jumps.
ARE SKATE RENTALS AVAILABLE?
We do have some skates you may borrow the first night of lessons. However, we want all skaters to have their own pair of skates. Great beginner skates can be purchased at Goal Line in Wausau (they have new and used skates) or from Jan the Skate Man. Remember–brand new skates do not come sharpened! Goal Line or Jan the Skate Man can sharpen your blades!
SHOULD MY CHILD USE DOUBLE BLADE SKATES?
It is recommended that kids start off on single-blade skates right away. Double-blade skates do help a child to balance, but hinder the ability to skate in a straight line and to turn. Once kids have progressed to learning basic spins, double-bladed skates will prevent them from being able to do any spins.
HOW MANY STUDENTS ARE IN A LEARN TO SKATE CLASS?
For each skate level, class size will have a maximum of 10 students.
WHO WILL BE COACHING MY SKATER’S CLASS?
All our Professional Coaches are United States Figure Skating and Learn to Skate certified. Your skater will be supervised by an adult at all times on the ice by one of our Pros. Classes are grouped with Learn to Skate Instructors and Helpers. These are skaters who have all based the basic skills and are Level Free Skate 1 or higher. Parents/Guardians are still recommended to stay on site during your skater’s class times.
HOW SHOULD I DRESS MY CHILD(REN) FOR CLASS?
Students should be comfortable and dressed in layers to accommodate getting hot during class. We recommend a hockey or bike helmet, hat, mittens, and snow pants for beginning skaters.