Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1223463
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF USFS T his spring, rinks, clubs and programs across the country will have access to a new program from U.S. Figure Skating that will help facilities make the connection between group lessons and U.S. Figure Skating club structure. An enhanced iteration of the organization's bridge program, the Aspire program features six consultants on hand nationwide and an extensive pool of resources for planning and implementation. "At the core, the Aspire program is about fostering fun and inspiring a lifelong passing for skating," said Daniel Palmeri, one of the six membership growth consultants. "I hope to drive the message forward that the Aspire program takes more of a team approach and requires coaches, skating clubs and even rink management to work together. As a team, we have the opportunity to be more powerful and successful in providing a solid foundation and transitioning athletes into the sport of figure skating." Aspire will help clubs, rinks and programs create a streamlined, customizable structure to seamlessly transition skaters from group classes to U.S. Figure Skating introductory membership and retain skaters finishing the learn to skate curriculum. With the help of six membership growth consultants, facilities will be able to tailor to program to fit their needs. "Delivering group class instruction to the higher-level skater beyond the beginner group lessons is the wave of the future," said consultant Andrea Williamson. "The Aspire program can be molded and developed into what individual clubs or rinks need. One size does not always fit all and that is the beauty of this program." U.S. Figure Skating's Aspire program to bridge the gap for beginner figure skaters U.S. Figure Skating's Aspire Program 52 / MARCH.APRIL.2020 USICERINKS.COM ASPIRE ON-ICE CURRICULUM Core skating classes • Edges, turns and skating skills • Moves in the field • Jumps • Spins Enhancement classes • Pre-preliminary class with test • Learn to compete class • Competition team • Beginning ice dance • Synchro skills • Intro to Theatre on Ice • Artistry in Motion: movement and choreography ASPIRE OFF-ICE ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES Core Off-Ice Classes • Dynamic warm-up • Physical literacy • Agility, balance and coordination • Functional strength training • Flexibility • Off-ice jumps • Movement: musical interpretation Overall health and wellness • Long-term athlete development • Proper nutrition and hydration • Practice planning and tracking • Goal setting • Sportsmanship • Self-confidence and perseverance • Mental preparation • Social activities • SafeSport REAL PROGRAMS U.S. Figure Skating's Aspire Program by TAYLOR DEAN